Summer Storm Damage

Summer storms can arise suddenly in the Hudson Valley, leaving a trail of destruction. These storms can significantly damage your chimney. If lightning, hail, or falling objects strike your chimney, it can lead to multiple problems.

How Can You Tell if a Summer Storm Has Damaged Your Chimney?

If you suspect a summer storm has compromised your chimney, look for signs of damage, though their severity may be unclear. Here are key indicators of chimney damage from a summer storm:

• A broken or missing chimney cap.
• A dank smell emanates from your fireplace a few days after a storm.
• Pieces of brick on the ground around the chimney.
• A chimney leaning to one side.
• Water stains around or near your fireplace.

Chimney Damage from Summer Storms

Summer Storm Damage to Your Chimney’s Flashing

Chimney flashing is a metal sheet that seals the space where your chimney meets the roof, protecting your home from water damage. Unfortunately, summer storms can damage flashing, allowing water to infiltrate your chimney and roof. Once your roof’s structure begins to rot, the damage is irreversible and may lead to further chimney issues. It’s imperative to replace damaged flashing immediately.

Summer Storm Damage to Chimney Crowns

The chimney crown, a concrete slab at the top of your chimney, is highly exposed and vulnerable to lightning strikes, hail, and falling limbs. A damaged crown fails to divert water from the chimney’s flue, allowing water to seep in and degrade the brick and mortar.

Cracks in Your Chimney’s Masonry Caused by Storm Damage

Summer storms can harm more than just the chimney crown. Baseball-sized hail, lightning strikes, or limbs torn off by gale-force winds can create cracks in your chimney’s masonry, allowing water to penetrate the bricks. Over time, absorbed moisture can worsen in winter due to the freeze-thaw cycle, causing bricks to expand, contract, and break down, potentially leading to chimney collapse.

What Should You Do if Your Chimney Has Storm Damage?

While a homeowner can visually inspect chimney damage, hiring a CSIA-certified chimney sweep is the best approach. A professional chimney sweep will:

• Investigate Structural Integrity: Evaluate visible damage and check for hidden structural issues to ensure your chimney is functional and stable.
• Remove Caked-On Soot, Creosote, or Debris: Clearing soot and creosote prevents chimney fires, while removing debris ensures dangerous gases don’t flow back into your home.
• Use Smoke Testing: Smoke testing quickly reveals leaks or blockages in your chimney.

In Short

Summer storms bring needed rain but can also damage your chimney. Avoid attempting repairs yourself, as you may lack the expertise to fix it correctly. Hire a qualified chimney sweep to address storm-related damage.

Hudson Valley Chimney Can Repair Storm Damage to Your Chimney

If you suspect a summer storm has damaged your chimney, contact us immediately. Whether it’s a damaged crown, torn flashing, or cracked bricks, Hudson Valley Chimney can restore your chimney to full working order. Don’t wait until your chimney is too far gone, get in touch today.