Local chimney waterproofing pros in Dover

What a chimney water repellent actually does

A penetrating water repellent soaks into the pores of brick and mortar and changes how they take in water. Rain beads on the treated face and runs off instead of wicking in. The Brick Industry Association notes that these products are most effective at reducing how much water the masonry absorbs.

That is a real benefit on a chimney, because less water in the brick means less wear on the joints. It is also the limit of the job. A repellent reduces absorption through sound masonry. Our pros explain that clearly before you decide, so you know what the treatment on your Dover chimney is there to do.

Tracing the water before treating the brick

Finding the source of water penetration and completing repairs come before any repellent in Brick Industry Association guidance. The note lists caps, flashing, sealant joints, mortar joints and brick units among the places to inspect.

Our specialists follow that order on every chimney in Dover. We start at the top, work down to the roof line and finish at the fireplace wall inside. By the end of the free visit you know where the water is coming from and which repair stops it.

• The chimney top, crown and cap
• Every face of brick and every mortar joint
• The roof connection on all sides
• Stains, soft paint or damp spots indoors

The product label sets the rules

Each water repellent has a label and a technical data sheet that set the surfaces it suits, the preparation it needs, the weather it can go on in and how much to apply. Those rules differ from product to product.

Our specialists read that sheet against the chimney in front of them, and they share the product name with you before work begins. When the job is done, the product and the date go on your invoice, so the next person to work on the chimney knows what is on it.

What the free waterproofing inspection covers

Before any price is given, our specialists look at the whole chimney, since the treatment only makes sense when the rest is sound. The visit costs nothing, and you are under no obligation to book the work.

You get a plain answer and a written estimate with each option priced on its own line. Treatment or repairs booked within 72 hours of the inspection come 10% off.

• Brick faces for cracks, spalling and porous spots
• Mortar joints for gaps, cracks and soft mortar
• Old coatings, paint or a glossy film
• White deposits and water stains
• The crown, the cap and the roof connection