Addressing Hidden Leaks Around Your Chimney

Chimney leaks are sneaky. Often mistaken for roof leaks, they can cause long-term water damage before anyone realizes where the problem actually starts. At Fowler Exteriors, we specialize in uncovering and repairing these hidden threats with precision and care.

Why Chimney Leaks Are So Hard to Catch

Chimneys are naturally vulnerable to water infiltration because they break the continuity of the roofline. They’re often built from porous materials like brick or stone and include multiple joints, flashings, and connection points where leaks can occur. Many of these issues develop silently over time. Left unchecked, they can lead to major damage, both inside and outside the home.

Many chimney leaks originate from issues like:

What You Need to Know

• Chimney leaks often go unnoticed and are mistaken for roof problems. Water entering through the chimney can travel behind walls or under roofing materials, showing up far from the actual source. This is why many homeowners—and even contractors—misdiagnose chimney leaks as roof issues. The signs can be subtle, like interior staining, peeling paint near the fireplace, or musty odors after rain. Without a focused inspection, it’s easy to waste time and money on the wrong repair.
• Catching them early requires a trained eye and thorough inspection. Because chimney leaks can mimic roof leaks, finding the true cause takes experience and a detailed approach. A proper inspection means examining more than just the shingles—it includes checking flashing, chimney caps, siding, brickwork, underlayment, and even the surrounding decking. At Fowler Exteriors, we use a comprehensive checklist to uncover both visible and hidden vulnerabilities.
• Fixing the leak isn’t enough—you need to address hidden damage and prevent it from coming back. Stopping the leak is just step one. In many cases, moisture has already damaged the underlying structure—such as rotting wood behind siding or mold beneath insulation. If that damage isn’t repaired, problems will continue to grow even after the visible leak is sealed. True protection means correcting the cause, repairing any water damage, and reinforcing vulnerable areas to prevent future leaks.

A Real Client Story: The Leak That Wouldn’t Quit

A recent project in Alpharetta highlights the importance of proper diagnosis. A frustrated homeowner reached out to us after multiple repair attempts failed to stop a persistent leak near their chimney.

From the start, we approached this case like investigators. Our team performed a full inspection, not just of the roof, but of every component around the chimney. What we found was telling.

What Our Inspection Revealed

Step 1: Thorough Roof Examination

We checked for loose or missing shingles, deteriorated sealant, clogged gutters, and sagging areas that might indicate water pooling.

Step 2: Detailed Inspection of the Chimney

We examined the chimney crown, cap, mortar joints, and flashing. That’s where we spotted a critical flaw: the kick-out flashing—the piece that diverts water away from the roof and siding—was completely missing.

Step 3: Evaluation of the Siding Around the Chimney

Upon closer inspection, we also found hidden rot behind the chimney siding. Water had been penetrating the area for some time, damaging the structure underneath.

Why The Missing Flashing Is a Big Deal

Flashing is one of the unsung heroes of a home’s architectural design. It’s a specialized component that diverts water from the chimney and roof into the gutter, preventing it from seeping under the roof or siding. When missing or damaged, water tends to find its way into the smallest of cracks, leading to leaks and, ultimately, water damage.

In our case, the missing kick-out flashing was the primary cause of the roof leak.

Rot Behind the Chimney Siding

As we suspected, we uncovered another more concerning issue—rot behind the chimney’s siding. Rot is one of those silent enemies that can cause significant damage before it’s even detected. It’s like a termite that slowly but surely eats into a building’s structural integrity.

In this case, the rot was hidden behind the siding, out of sight and, therefore, out of mind. But it was there, silently causing damage that, if left unchecked, could lead to grave structural issues. 

Our goal was not just to fix the leak but to ensure the overall health of the chimney and, by extension, the entire home.

Damaged Decking

With the rot discovered and the cause of the leak identified, the homeowner gave us the green light to proceed with the necessary repairs. So, we rolled up our sleeves and got down to business. Our first task was to address the damaged decking.

The process involved removing and replacing the damaged sections with new, sturdy materials. Damaged decking, if not addressed, can lead to structural instability over time, so it was crucial to replace the damaged parts to ensure the longevity and safety of the structure.

Preventing Future Leaks with Flashing

We installed new flashing, ensuring it was correctly positioned to divert water from the chimney and prevent future leaks. The new flashing was designed to withstand the rigors of weather and time and provide a durable solution to the leak problem.

Replacing The Damaged Siding

Next, we turned our attention to the siding. This element is the first line of defense against water intrusion, and any damage can lead to leaks and further deterioration. The damaged siding had to go. We installed the underlayment and then the siding. We then painted the siding to match the existing color and cleaned it up, finishing the chimney repair.

Solving the Problem and Preventing the Next One

By the time we finished, we had addressed the existing chimney leak and fortified the home against future issues. We believe in going above and beyond to safeguard our clients’ homes. We don’t just fix problems; we provide comprehensive solutions that offer peace of mind.

Whether you’re dealing with a persistent roof or chimney leak, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Our team at Fowler Exteriors is always ready to provide professional service and give you the peace of mind you deserve.