FAQ:  Chimney Leak? –
How to Know, What to Do

What are the signs of a chimney leak?

The most common signs are water in the attic, moisture around
the base of the chimney, moisture on the ceiling around,
or inside the fireplace, or in the basement.

If you have a slab foundation, you might also see moisture
on wall plaster, or on the side of the chimney.

If there is a chimney leak, what’s the easiest,
quickest way to fix it?

A chimney flashing kit, available from roofing contractors, is all
that’s needed to repair a chimney leak if found soon enough.

How costly is a typical repair for a chimney leak?

It can cost as little as $100. But if the leak is migrating, and getting
worse, it can eventually cause damage in the thousands of dollars. 

Does a chimney leak cause energy loss?

No, this is one thing you don’t have to worry about. 
A chimney leak mostly causes property damage.

What kind of property damage?

A chimney leak can quickly damage plaster walls and ceilings. 
House inspectors look carefully for leaks, because they are a
telltale warning of other problems, including mold.

What other chimney-related items do inspectors typically look for?

Flashing systems that are “home-made,” even if the contractor
did it, are also reportable on inspection forms, because of their
potential for causing difficulties.  Also, if there is a chimney leak,
an inspector will also look for signs of insect infestation.

Insect infestation?

Yes, many nesting insects are attracted to moist wood in the roof
or ceiling joists, and this is what occurs with a chimney leak. 

The roof on this house is just a few years old. 
Why do we have a chimney leak?

Perhaps the roofer did not re-flash the chimney when the
new roof was installed.  This is always a bad policy.  New
flashing should always be installed with a new roof. 

Can a chimney leak because it was not
properly flashed?

Yes, this is the other possibility. Plywood rot is likely if the
chimney was flashed improperly, or with a “home-made” system. 

If we have to replace the flashing, what’s the best material to use?

Some flashing is made from galvanized steel, which rusts
over time, particularly in costal areas. We recommend a
flashing kit that uses aluminum or copper. 

Could flashing conceal a chimney leak?

MOHECO PRODUCTS COMPANY
26835 West Seven Mile Road
Redford, Michigan 48240
888.814.3721 • 313.531.5630
fax: 313.531.0480
email: sales@moheco.com

© 2010 by Moheco Products Company. 
All rights reserved.  SITEMAP
Moheco is a manufacturer of products to prevent a chimney leak,
chimney flashing kits, gutter protection products, ladder support
products and roll formed parts as an alternative to
aluminum extrusions.

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