What Kind Of Condition Is Your Chimney Crown In?

The chimney crown gets its name because of its placement at the very top of the flue, but truth is, it deserves such a regal moniker. Since, along with your chimney cap, the crown is the first guard your chimney system has against water intrusion, it plays a very important role and is key to the proper function and durability of the chimney.

Given how much abuse the crown takes from sun, heat, rain, sleet and snow, it’s not uncommon for American Chimney & Masonry’s technicians to find cracks in the crown during a chimney inspection.

What If The Cracks Are Small?

Even small cracks are a big problem. Why? Cracks of any size will allow water to seep into the masonry, and, as the temperature changes, that water can freeze and expand, making cracks even bigger. Even while the cracks are minimal, the water that is making its way through can seep into the chimney masonry, eroding and degrading the joints, and often making its way into the framing and drywall of a home. We’re particularly susceptible to this issue here in Portland, since we tend to get a great deal of rain.

Depending on the severity of a crown’s damage, American Chimney & Masonry technicians can recommend a repair or restoration method that can bring your crown back to glory.

CrownSeal: A Great Solution For Less Severe Damage

If most of the crown’s damage is comprised of small, hairline cracks, American Chimney & Masonry will likely recommend CrownSeal, a durable product that quickly takes an ineffective crown and turns it back into a strong source of protection.

When CrownSeal is applied, it creates a permanently flexible and thoroughly waterproof membrane over the damaged crown, filling in and covering small cracks. Not only does this commonly solve the immediate problem, but it also protects the crown from further damage, which makes it less likely that you’ll have to have the crown rebuilt any time in the near future. And as an added assurance, CrownSeal carries a 10-year warranty.

Crown Construction: A New, Expertly Built Chimney Crown

When a crown is extensively damaged, or if it was poorly designed or constructed to begin with, the best solution is usually to have a new crown built. Not to worry, though — American Chimney & Masonry’s technicians are extensively trained in proper crown design and construction. We build crowns that are made to do their job well and stand the test of time.

We know that the best crown design includes a surface that slopes downward to encourage water away from the flue opening, and edges that extend at least 2-1/2″ beyond the chimney, to keep water from pouring down onto the exterior masonry. If your current crown doesn’t have these features or is a simple flat mortar wash, your chimney isn’t getting optimum protection.

Whether American Chimney & Masonry’s technicians repair a damaged crown with CrownSeal or construct a brand new one, you can expect ample water protection and a freshened, renewed look, too.

Is your chimney crown damaged? American Chimney & Masonry can help. Call us at 503-644-0393 to make an appointment with our CSIA- and Oregon Chimney Sweep Association-certified technicians! You can also schedule your appointment online!

Your chimney crown may need other repairs and we’re the ones to call for this type of masonry restoration.

Portland Chimney Repair – Service Area

Located right here in Oregon, our Portland chimney sweep technicians provide the best in chimney repair, fireplace installation and dryer vent care in the Greater Portland-Metro area. From NE Portland down to SE Portland, Tualatin and Oregon City in the south, from Pleasant Valley in the east to Beaverton and Sherwood in the west – when it comes to your chimney, fireplace and vents, we hope you’ll call American Chimney & Masonry! We are the most trusted Portland Chimney Repair company!

Ready To Make A Chimney Sweep Appointment?

To schedule an appointment with one of our expert chimney repair technicians, please call 503-644-0393. With over 19,000 satisfied customers since 1989, we are ready for more! We look forward to visiting with you soon about your fireplace and chimney sweep needs.