5 Signs Your Brick Chimney Needs a Sealer

Homeowners are wise to take a proactive approach to home maintenance rather than waiting until things break before taking action. As they say, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. Proper maintenance not only ensures that your home runs efficiently and safely but also helps maintain the value of your home. One important aspect of home maintenance is keeping your brick chimney in good condition. Neglecting your chimney can lead to costly repairs and even safety hazards. An easy and cost-effective way to avoid costly brick chimney repairs is by using a high-quality chimney brick sealer.

To prevent problems, pay attention to early warning signs and don’t wait for issues to arise. Here are five warning signs that your brick chimney needs to be sealed, so you can stay ahead of any potential issues.

Water Leaks Inside Your Brick Chimney or Fireplace

Water stains or leaks inside your brick chimney or fireplace are a clear indication that your chimney needs a penetrating sealer. The stains or leaks indicate that water may be penetrating through the brick and mortar, which can lead to a variety of problems. Not only can water damage the structural integrity of your chimney, but it can also lead to the growth of mold and mildew, creating health hazards for you and your family. In addition, water can also cause rust on metal parts such as the damper or firebox, which can lead to further issues with your chimney’s functionality.

By applying a chimney brick sealer, you can protect it from water damage and prevent these costly repairs. After all, who wants to spend money on repairs when you can spend it on something more exciting, like buying a new lawnmower?

Crumbling or Cracked Brick & Mortar

Crumbling or cracked brick and mortar joints on the exterior of your chimney is a sign that your chimney needs some help. These cracks and crumbling can be caused by a variety of factors, including water damage, freeze-thaw cycles, and general wear and tear. Water that seeps into the brick and mortar of your chimney can cause major damage when it freezes and expands, leading to spalling of the brick surfaces. Additionally, when water penetrates the chimney, it can cause the masonry to weaken and crack over time. This can lead to serious structural issues if left unrepaired.

A chimney brick sealer can be applied to the exterior of the chimney to prevent water from penetrating the brick and mortar and protect it from further damage. Additionally, a penetrating sealer can also help to strengthen and stabilize the existing brick and mortar, making it more resistant to cracking and crumbling. If the cracking and crumbling are severe, chimney repair (e.g repointing mortar, brick replacement) should be done before applying the chimney sealer.

A Strong Musty or Damp Smell Coming From Your Chimney

A strong musty or damp smell coming from your chimney is a sign that water may be penetrating the chimney and potentially causing damage. The most common cause of a musty or damp smell is due to water penetrating the chimney and causing mold or mildew growth. Mold and mildew can be harmful to your health. In addition to creating unpleasant odors, it can also cause respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues.

One of the best ways to prevent mold and mildew growth in your chimney is by applying a sealer. A penetrating chimney sealer that soaks deep into the brick and mortar creates an impenetrable barrier that stops water from entering your chimney. Without water, mold cannot grow.

It is important to note that if the smell persists, it is best to call a professional chimney sweep for further inspection, as there might be some other issues.

Rust on Metal Parts of Your Brick Chimney

Rust on metal parts such as the damper or firebox is a clue that water may be penetrating your chimney and causing damage. Rust can weaken the structural integrity of these metal parts and make them less functional. This can lead to issues such as drafts, poor ventilation, and even safety hazards. Rust can also be unsightly and can detract from the overall aesthetic of your home.

The main cause of rust on metal parts of your chimney is water. When water enters your chimney, it can cause rust to form on metal parts such as the damper or firebox. This can happen when water leaks into the chimney or when moisture is not properly ventilated out of the chimney.

Using a chimney brick sealer is an effective solution to preventing rust on metal parts of your chimney. A penetrating sealer creates an impenetrable barrier that stops water from entering your chimney, thus preventing rust from forming on metal parts.

Efflorescence or White Stains on the Brick & Mortar Face

The presence of efflorescence, a white, powdery substance on the exterior of your chimney, is a sign that water is penetrating the brick and mortar of your chimney. Efflorescence is caused by water dissolving salts and other minerals in the brick and mortar and then evaporating, leaving behind a white, powdery residue.

While efflorescence itself is not harmful, it is an indication that water is leaching minerals from the brick and mortar, making it weaker and more porous.

One of the best ways to prevent efflorescence from forming on your chimney is by preventing water from seeping into the brick and mortar. A penetrating sealer creates an impenetrable barrier that stops water from entering your chimney, thus preventing efflorescence from forming. Additionally, a penetrating sealer can also help to strengthen and stabilize the existing brick and mortar, making it more resistant to efflorescence. Pro-Tip: Remove efflorescence before applying a chimney brick sealer.

Choosing the Best Chimney Brick Sealer

When it comes to choosing the best chimney brick sealer, Lastiseal Brick & Concrete Sealer cannot be beaten. One of the main benefits of using Lastiseal is its 15-year waterproofing warranty, which ensures that your chimney will be protected from water damage for years to come.

In addition to its waterproofing properties, Lastiseal also hardens the brick and mortar, making it stronger and more resistant to cracking and crumbling. No silane siloxane sealer can provide this type of protection! A strong chimney can withstand the elements better and will last longer. If you don’t know how to seal a brick chimney, don’t worry, the application is very easy and requires no special tools, and can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed on.

Other great features of Lastiseal are its ability to penetrate deep into the brick and mortar (up to 3 inches) and that it allows the brick and mortar to breathe, which is important for maintaining the health of the chimney. Choose LastiSeal Flat to leave a natural look to the brick, or Choose LastiSeal Satin, for a subtle, low-gloss sheen. Read more about choosing the chimney sealer for your home.