The crown, of a chimney, is a very important exterior component of which sheds weather from entering the brick structure. Chimney crowns typically are originally made of concrete, which is about one inch thick and covers the top flat portion of the chimney. Over time this concrete begins to crack and absorb water. When these cracks absorb water, the chimney begins to deteriorate from the inside out. It does this as the water seeps down the structure and will freeze and thaw over the seasons. The mortar that holds the brick together will turn into sand and the bricks, of which it is supporting, will begin to loosen from the chimney. Upon inspection, we often see this on our customer's chimneys.
Our solution is one of two options. First we will apply concrete forms on top of the chimney. After the forms are secure we will then proceed to pour a four inch thick concrete crown with overhanging edges. These overhanging edges direct water directly to the shingles of your roof and the moisture never touches the chimney itself. After several days of dry time, our professionals will return to your property and remove the forms. After we are convinced that your new crown will protect the structure of the chimney, we then will apply masonry waterproofing.
The second option for our customers is to apply a composite product of which also sheds water, as well as stretches with the weather. Many customers also choose this product because it has a fast dry time and we do not need to return for a second time.
Our concrete crown is a fix to your chimney that will last the lifetime of your chimney. Our second option is about half the price and has about a twenty year life expectancy. Either way your chimney will be completely protected from weather for years to come. |