Why Is My Chimney Leaking?

Five Star Chimney Repair • July 18, 2025

Whatever type of solution is chosen for your particular repair job should be discussed with our Portland, OR masonry professionals prior to starting work so you can know exactly what kind of results you can expect from their repairs before committing financially to them. Additionally, proper maintenance going forward should be considered when fixing masonry chimneys, such as getting inspections done regularly and having a professional come out every few years to clear away any debris that has accumulated at the base, preventing future leaking issues.

Cracks in the Mortar Joint Between Bricks

Cracks in the mortar joint between bricks can be a significant structural and aesthetic issue for structures with brick walls. These small cracks can expand rapidly without timely repair, leading to large-scale damage such as crumbling brickwork or even structurally unsound walls.

Furthermore, cracked mortar joints can let in moisture, making them vulnerable to further deterioration from freeze-thaw cycles and impacts from degrading weather conditions. Therefore, it is important to consult with experts and professionals to ensure that appropriate measures are taken to secure the affected areas before further problems arise.

Damaged or Missing Flashing

Damaged or missing flashing can have a detrimental effect on the integrity of your building structure. Flashing is typically installed around areas where two planes intersect and help keep water from seeping in, preventing costly damage to the surrounding area. If any flashing is damaged or missing, it needs to be addressed immediately before more substantial damage is caused. For optimal building protection, we suggest checking regularly for signs of damage and repairing as necessary. This will help protect your structure against the ill effects of moisture and prolonged rain exposure.


Leaks Around the Chimney Cap

An overlooked yet critical component of your roofing system, the chimney cap is designed to protect your home from water damage, and if neglected for too long, it can lead to costly repairs. A telling sign of leakage around the chimney cap is spotting or staining, usually found near the flue areas. If you begin to notice these telltale signs of water seeping in around the chimney cap, it’s important to act quickly by hiring professional help. Don’t let a small potential problem turn into a huge expense—having a properly sealed and secured chimney cap will ensure your home’s safety for years to come.

Cracks in the Crown of the Chimney

Cracks in a chimney’s crown should never be taken lightly. If left unattended, they can cause substantial deterioration in the structure, leading to potential safety hazards like fire outbreaks. An experienced chimney professional should always be consulted when cracks are detected. A thorough inspection of the entire chimney system should be completed to determine the extent of damage and offer an appropriate repair solution. The sooner a crack is identified and dealt with by an expert, the lower the associated repair cost and mitigating any safety risks that may arise from further neglect.


Deteriorated Brickwork

Without proper maintenance and repair, deteriorated brickwork can become a safety hazard. Not only can it harm the structural integrity of a building or structure, but it can pose physical danger to those living or otherwise engaging with the space. As such, it is important to have broken or crumbling brickwork properly addressed as soon as possible. Contractors and masonry workers have the expertise and experience needed to assess the extent of any damage, make necessary repairs, and protect against future deterioration. Investing in professionals to repair deteriorating brickwork before the situation becomes a real danger ensures safety for years to come.


Call Your Portland Repair Experts Today

These are just a few of the most common problems that can cause extensive damage to your Portland, OR chimney. [Home] has the experience and knowledge to fix any problem you may have, no matter how big or small. So don’t wait—call us today at 503-888-0260 or request service online for a free inspection.

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