Among the parts of your chimney is the crown. Not to be mistaken for the cap, the small “roof” that sits on top of the chimney to prevent water, and often small animals, from entering your chimney, the crown is a large slab, typically of concrete, which covers the top of the chimney. But what purpose does it serve, and why do homeowners in Rochester need chimney crown repair?
Crowning Your Chimney: When Repairs are Needed
Purpose of a Chimney Crown
A chimney crown is the first point of defense to prevent water from getting into your chimney system. Because it’s a solid piece over the masonry and brick work, it protects your mortar and bricks from getting as wet, helping to reduce or prevent freeze and thaw damage.
Types of Chimney Crowns
There are three types of chimney crowns that are typically placed, and all are usually made of concrete.
- For larger or unusual chimneys, a cast-in-place crown is often used, as it’s customized to the specific chimney.
- For smaller chimneys, precast crowns are commonly used, and are faster and less expensive to install in many situations.
- For exceptional durability, a floating crown has an overhang. It takes longer to install, but will typically provide better protection.
Signs Your Chimney Crown Needs Repair
There are many ways that your chimney crown can begin to fail, including blows from a tree or limb falling on it, old age, and freeze and thaw damage. These issues can lead to bigger problems if not handled promptly, eventually leading to failure of the chimney system.
Signs that your chimney crown needs repair can include a cracked crown, problems with the sealant, masonry degradation, and leaks in the chimney. These are issues that can often be caught early through an annual chimney inspection and cleaning.
By having the chimney crown repaired in your Rochester home when the need arises, you can protect the rest of your chimney structure from additional damage and get a longer overall lifespan out of your chimney system. If you need repairs or maintenance on your chimney system, the experienced chimney professionals at Four Winds Chimney in Rochester offer chimney crown repair, installation, and maintenance services. Contact us today to get started!
