Dangers of a Cracked Crown

Your chimney stands tall and proud, efficiently venting harmful gases while you enjoy your wood-burning or gas fireplace or stove. However, house settling, seasonal weather changes, lightning, and minor seismic activity can cause cracks in the vulnerable crown. Often, homeowners are unaware of a cracked crown until a chimney inspection or more extensive damage appears.

The Consequences of a Cracked Crown

The crown is among a chimney’s most vital components and the most vulnerable. This concrete slab at the uppermost section of the stack diverts water away from the flue opening and the masonry. Here are some of the primary dangers a compromised crown poses to your chimney:

Masonry Damage

The crown’s primary function is to prevent water from seeping into the chimney and venting system. Even a hairline crack invites rain, snow, and ice to leak into the porous masonry structure, damaging the interior masonry walls and other critical components.

Chimney Liner Damage

One such critical component is the chimney liner. Water leaking through cracks in the crown can damage this protective and insulating covering, leading to increased fire risk and health risks. A compromised chimney liner hinders proper venting, potentially allowing dangerous carbon monoxide gas to seep into your home. Unfortunately, deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning are a growing problem in the Lehigh Valley and Pennsylvania region, especially during freezing weather.

Mold & Mildew Growth

When water makes its way through the masonry structure, the humid conditions inside the chimney are ripe for mold and mildew growth. These spores can cause health problems in some individuals and attract pests and rodents.

Brick Spalling

Continuous water saturation can weaken the mortar joints and bricks, potentially leading to a leaning chimney or, in extreme cases, a collapse—a scenario that poses a severe danger to your home and those nearby.

Increased Repair Costs

Ignoring a cracked crown almost guarantees higher repair costs in the future. What might start as a relatively simple resealing to repair the crown can escalate into crown rebuilding, chimney relining, and even interior home repairs from mold and water damage.

Is Your Crown Cracked? Watch for these warning signs:

While annual inspections are a must, keep an eye out for potential indicators of a cracked crown or other chimney problems, especially after a storm or seismic event:

• There are visible cracks on the top of the chimney.
• White staining (efflorescence) on the exterior brickwork.
• Loose, missing, or spalling bricks.
• Dampness or water stains on interior walls or ceilings near the fireplace.

If you spot any of the above warning signs, contact Wells & Sons to schedule an appointment with a Certified Chimney Sweep®.

Mitigating the Dangers of a Cracked Crown

The good news is that these dangers are largely avoidable with regular maintenance and timely repairs. By taking proactive steps, homeowners in Southeastern Pennsylvania can protect their chimneys and homes from potential hazards.

Schedule Annual Chimney Inspections

This is by far the most important step. A certified chimney sweep can identify a cracked crown in its early stages before it leads to extensive damage. They’ll also check for creosote buildup, liner integrity, and other potential issues.

Address Repairs Promptly

Quick repairs are essential when an inspection reveals a cracked crown. It can prevent minor cracks from growing into more severe and costly problems.

Best Chimney Repair Expert Near Me

Wells & Sons is the trusted provider of chimney and fireplace services in Southeastern Pennsylvania. In addition to certified chimney inspections, our skilled technicians provide expert masonry repairs, including repairing a cracked or damaged crown. We are a family-owned and locally operated business, proudly serving the Lehigh Valley area, including Bethlehem, Chester Springs, Lehighton, and Shoemakersville. Contact us at https://wellssons.com/scheduling/ to book your appointment today and experience our unwavering commitment to excellence. Emergency appointments and free estimates available.