With winter weather arriving, masonry chimneys face months of prolonged exposure to wind-driven rains and melting snow.

Efflorescence is a crystalline deposit of water-soluble salts (usually white) on the surface of masonry. All masonry materials are susceptible to efflorescence.

Typically, chimney flashings are more complex than other types of roof flashings and are a common source of roof leaks.

I’ve been seeing them since I was a kid. On the side of the road, out in a field, and off beaten paths in the middle of the woods: the lone chimney.

A chimney cap is the least-expensive preventative measure one can take to protect a chimney from deterioration and keep it operating properly.

Flashing is an important element in brick masonry's line of defense against water penetration. It may either direct moisture out of a cavity or prevent moisture from entering.

We discuss the findings of inspections of masonry chimneys throughout Chicago and offer general maintenance and restoration suggestions along with other important information.

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