Roofers are often busy after a storm. A particularly strong storm can deal enough damage to any type of roofing system to necessitate major repairs and even replacements.
It’s not just shingles and other roofing materials that could take a beating during a storm. It’s also the different roof penetrations, including chimneys. Chimneys are made of strong material like brick so it’s easy for a homeowner to think it’s safe from the impact of a hurricane, but even chimneys can suffer damage, and it’s not always easy to detect it.
To find out whether your chimney has suffered storm damage, look out for the following signs:
Cracks and Missing Bricks
It’s possible to determine if your chimney is damaged when you sweep your property for dirt and debris after a storm passes. You might find pieces of brick lying around. If you do, call your local roofing company, and have them inspect your roof and your chimney.
You might also be able to spot cracks and missing bricks even from the ground. Use a pair of binoculars or a camera with a telephoto lens to get a closer look. Avoid getting on a ladder or climbing on your roof after a storm.
Damaged or Missing Flashing
Flashing is used to keep the area around the base of the chimney waterproof. But a strong storm can dislodge or damage flashing with its heavy rain or strong winds. It’s important to call your roofer if you spot missing or damaged flashing because the next rain will cause a leak that might damage more components of your home.
Damaged or Missing Chimney Caps
The chimney cap’s job is to protect your chimney from the elements, but strong winds and heavy rains can damage it, dislodge it or tear it off completely. Without the chimney cap, your chimney is vulnerable to water penetration (which can damage its walls) and animal intrusion. The same is true with your chimney chase cover. Call your local chimney expert to repair or replace a damaged or missing chimney cap or chase cover.
Get in touch with Roof Masters if you have any problem with your chimney or the rest of your roofing system. Call us today at (301) 230-7663, or fill out this form to let us know about the services you need. We’re ready to help homeowners in Rockville, MD.
