Perched at the top of the stack, the crown is the chimney’s first line of defense against wind, rain, snow, and gusty winds. Its concrete surface is particularly vulnerable to moisture and snow accumulation. As neighbors in the greater Milwaukee area, we understand the unique challenges homeowners face, particularly when it comes to maintaining their chimneys against our diverse weather conditions. At Smoke Stacks, we collaborate closely with homeowners to deliver exceptional craftsmanship and outstanding results for all chimney crown repair needs.
Chimney Crown Damage
Gusty winds, blizzards, heavy thunderstorms, and even lightning can cause damage to the chimney crown. When cracks develop on the surface, water can seep through. In the winter, this moisture freezes and expands repeatedly, causing the cracks to widen and the crown to deteriorate further. This freeze-thaw cycle, combined with the battering from strong winds and precipitation year after year, makes the crown one of the most susceptible components of the chimney.
- Hairline Cracks: These are often the first sign of water penetration and freeze-thaw damage. If left unaddressed, they will inevitably grow larger.
- Deep Fissures: As the freeze-thaw cycle continues, hairline cracks develop into more significant fissures, allowing even more water to penetrate.
- Chipping: The concrete surface can chip when water penetrates the material, freezes, and causes small pieces of the crown to break off. It is a clear indicator of extensive freeze-thaw damage.
- Spalling: In severe cases, the entire chimney crown can begin to crumble and lose its integrity, exposing the flue to the elements.
- Lacks Drip Edge: Many older or improperly constructed crowns in Milwaukee may lack a proper "drip edge" (an overhang that directs water away from the chimney's sides) or the required slope. This flaw allows water to run down the chimney's masonry walls, leading to deterioration of bricks and mortar below the crown as well.
Chimney Crown Repair Vs. Rebuilding
When you choose Smoke Stacks for chimney crown repair, you can expect a thorough and transparent process. We start with a comprehensive inspection to determine the extent of the damage. In cases of minor damage, such as hairline cracks, we can often seal the chimney crown with a specially formulated waterproof and weather-resistant coating.
However, if the crown is severely damaged or constructed improperly, rebuilding it is the best solution to restore the crown and protect the stack from future damage. Our team will guide you through each step, ensuring you understand the process and the expected outcome.
What to Expect from Your Local Experts
Choosing Smoke Stacks as your local contractor means partnering with experts who have a complete understanding of the community and can provide faster response times. When you work with us, you can expect:
- Long-Lasting Repairs: We are committed to getting it right the first time, providing professional and durable repairs that minimize repeat service calls for the same issue. This commitment to quality ensures that you can trust our repairs to stand the test of time, giving you peace of mind about the integrity of our work.
- Expertise: Our extensive experience and knowledge in masonry services enable us to deliver superior results every time.
- Customer-Centric: Our repair process is seamless and focused on your complete satisfaction. We understand that chimney crown repair can be a significant investment, and we are committed to ensuring that you are fully informed and satisfied with our service at every step.
- Local Contractor: Our deep roots in the Greater Milwaukee area mean you’re getting a trained professional who lives and works in our community. Your chimney crown repair will be in the hands of someone who understands the unique challenges of our area and can provide the best solutions.
Preventing Chimney Crown Damage
Did you know that a chimney cap can help protect the crown? A custom full-width chimney cap provides an additional layer of protection for the chimney crown. These caps extend beyond the edges of the chimney, further shielding the masonry from direct exposure to rain, snow, and ice. Ask your Smoke Stacks chimney sweep about available options.
Your Local Chimney Crown Repair Experts in Greater Milwaukee
Chimney crown damage? Contact the skilled masonry contractors at Smoke Stacks today to schedule an appointment for chimney crown repair. We are dedicated to delivering exceptional services to homeowners in Milwaukee and surrounding areas. We utilize only the finest materials and outstanding craftsmanship, ensuring that your Chimney Crown Repair meets our standards of excellence. Contact us today to schedule an appointment! Family Pride. Exceptional Results.
