Repouring or repairing a chimney crown

Understanding the Importance of a Chimney Crown

A chimney crown is the concrete top of a chimney, essential for protecting your home from water damage. A damaged or missing crown can lead to water infiltration, which can cause significant damage to your chimney, roof, and interior walls. The problems with most crowns is they were poured with masonry meant for tuck pointing and noy cement that is meant for crowns.

When to Repair or Repour a Chimney Crown

• Visible Cracks: These can allow water to seep into the chimney.
• Missing Mortar: Exposed brick or concrete can deteriorate quickly.
• Spalling: This is when chunks of material break off the crown.
• Excessive Wear and Tear: If the crown is old and worn, it may need to be replaced.

DIY Repair vs. Professional Help

While minor repairs can be done by a skilled DIYer, major repairs or a complete repour are best left to professionals. Factors like the extent of damage, local building codes, and safety considerations should be taken into account.

Scope of Work for repair

1. Clean the Crown: Remove loose debris and moss with a wire brush.
2. Patch Small Cracks: Use a high-quality masonry repair mortar.
3. Seal the Crown with Crown Coat: CrownCoat® Brushable Sealant is a fast setting elastomeric coating that forms a flexible waterproof membrane. CrownCoat is specifically formulated to repair and protect chimney crowns with cracks less than ½ inch from water intrusion.

Professional Crown Repouring

If the damage is significant, a complete re-pour is necessary. This involves:

1. Removing the Old Crown: This can be a labor-intensive process, often requiring specialized tools and equipment.
2. Preparing the Surface: The chimney top must be clean and free of debris. A form must be formed
3. Pouring New Concrete: A high-quality, weather-resistant concrete mix is used to create a new crown. Include a drip edge on the crown to force water away from the chimney and down to the shingles. Always include an expansion joint around the top tile.

4. Finishing and Curing: The new crown is shaped and allowed to cure properly.

Additional Tips:

• Regular Inspections: Inspect your chimney crown annually for signs of damage.
• Professional Cleaning: Schedule regular chimney cleaning to remove creosote buildup.
• Consider a Chimney Cap: A chimney cap can further protect your chimney from water damage and debris. A multiflued cap that protects the entire crown will add ultimate protection to your crown and chimney.

By taking the necessary steps to repair or repour your chimney crown, you can protect your home and ensure the longevity of your chimney. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the process, call Best Cincinnati Chimney for a consultation.