Chimney Leak Repair
The Brick Experts’ team are licensed, bonded, and certified for chimney leak repair throughout the Dallas / Fort Worth metroplex. From chimney flashing repairs to chimney crown replacements and brick tuckpointing, Brick Experts has been rated a 5-star service provider again and again by our valued local customers.
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What Causes Chimney Leaks?
Damaged flashing and cracked chimney crowns are the most common ways that water enters chimneys.
Like crowns, missing or damaged chimney caps also expose the chimney flue to direct rainfall flowing straight down the stack, causing damage all the way down.
Deteriorating mortar joints between bricks provide other pathways for water infiltration, leaving gaps between bricks.
Clogged weep holes block proper drainage, trapping water and damaging the chimney from the inside.
Most chimney leaks start small but develop into more serious water damage over time, so it’s important to act quickly.
Watch For These Signs
Water stains on your interior walls and ceilings indicate active chimney leaks. Brown or yellowish discoloration on walls near the chimney structure occurs when water penetrates through damaged flashing or mortar.
Dark patches or efflorescence on exterior brick walls reveal moisture early on in these key areas:
Mortar joints
Chimney crown
Flashing at roof intersection
Base of the chimney
A distinctive musty odor will also be present in fireplaces with water infiltration issues.
Our Repair Process
We test for creosote and moisture throughout the chimney from top to bottom, and check the flashing, cap, crown, brick and mortar, and flue liner for signs of water damage.
Our repair techniques include, tuckpointing mortar joints, replacing loose or cracked bricks, replacing and resealing flashing, treating any mold growth, and weatherproofing.
Then our team verifies the repairs by:
Testing repaired areas
Visual inspection of all sealed joints
Moisture meter readings
Every repair job includes detailed documentation and recommendations for future maintenance as well.
A FAMILY COMPANY WITH 40+ Years Of Masonry Experience
Jacob Andrews
Owner & CEO
Jacob started Brick Experts in 2015 with his Dad David after attending Ouachita Baptist University. An expert in masonry repair and installation, he has established relationships with HOA’s, property managers, and commercial general contractors throughout the state of Texas.
Meet The Team
Brick Experts is a family-owned local business with 40+ years of combined experience providing masonry services to residents and developers in the DFW area.
Over the years the company has grown and now we have one of the strongest teams of highly-skilled and certified masons in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
David Andrews
Co-Founder
David helped start Brick Experts in 2015 with his son Jacob. David was a master brick mason in commercial and residential for 30 years prior to starting Brick Experts. David is an expert in all phases of masonry, especially repairs and water leaks. He trained most of the masons on staff at Brick Experts today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nearly every home in Dallas / Fort Worth incorporates brick but few homeowners know very much about this timeless material. Here’s what property owners frequently ask about maintaining their masonry structures.
Chimney leaks require complex repairs that are best suited to experienced professionals. But these projects can range from fairly minor to very costly and we prefer to make sure you completely understand what’s involved.
Here are answers to the some of the typical questions we receive about chimney leak identification, repairs, and maintenance.
How do I know if my chimney is leaking?
Yellowish-brown water stains on walls or ceilings near the chimney indicate on-going chimney leaks. White powdery deposits (efflorescence) on exterior bricks is a sign of trapped moisture behind the brick which requires immediate attention. Musty odors from the fireplace can also indicate water intrusion (and likely damage as well).
What is the typical cost of chimney leak repairs?
Chimney leak repair costs in Dallas can range significantly in price, depending on the severity of the damage. Simple flashing repairs can be inexpensive, while crown replacements and major tuckpointing repairs can become costly quickly.
Can a leaky chimney cause structural damage?
Leaky chimneys introduce water in the chimney flue, behind the wall. Water erodes mortar joints, loosens bricks, and compromises the chimney’s stability. In cold weather, freeze-thaw cycles accelerate brick deterioration, potentially leading to chimney collapse.
How long does a chimney repair last?
Professional chimney repairs last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. Flashing repairs endure 10-15 years, while crown replacements extend 20-25 years. Regular inspections maximize repair longevity by identifying issues before extensive damage occurs.
Why is it important to repair chimney leaks quickly?
Chimney leaks introduce water into your chimney which causes structural damage, mold growth, and reduces the efficiency of your fireplace. These issues worsen quickly until they’re resolved, often resulting in higher than necessary costs when ignored even for a short time.
How common are chimney leaks?
Chimney leaks are a frequent issue, particularly with older chimneys or those exposed to harsh weather. Extreme temperatures throughout the year warp the flashing around the chimney and will eventually crack the cap or crown, creating a leak. It happens regularly throughout the life of any chimney.
What causes chimney leaks?
Common causes include damaged flashing, cracked masonry, worn-out chimney caps, deteriorated mortar joints, and improper sealing.
How can I confirm my chimney is leaking?
A professional chimney inspection is necessary to identify the nature and source of the leak and the extent of the damage.
What are the most common chimney leak repairs?
Resealing flashing, replacing chimney caps, repairing mortar joints, and applying waterproofing treatments are among the most common types of chimney repair jobs.
What is chimney flashing, and why does it matter?
Chimney flashing is a metal layer sealing the gap between the roof and chimney. Damaged flashing allows water to enter the system and become trapped.
Can I fix a chimney leak myself?
Minor repairs like sealing small cracks might be suitable DIY projects, but significant issues like chimney leaks require years of professional expertise to ensure the job is done right.
How can I prevent chimney leaks in the future?
Regular inspections, cleaning, waterproofing, and maintaining the flashing, chimney cap, and crown are the best ways to prevent leaks and water damage.
How often should chimneys be inspected for leaks?
Annual chimney inspections are usually sufficient to catch and address potential issues early but checking every 6 months is our best recommendation.
Can chimney leaks cause health issues?
Yes, leaks encourage mold growth, which can cause respiratory problems and other health concerns. Moisture behind bricks and trapped in walls and ceilings is the perfect feeding ground for black mold.