Blog | Portland Chimney Services

A chimney leak happens when water enters the chimney system through damaged masonry, a broken crown, faulty flashing, or other vulnerable areas. While brick and mortar may seem solid, they’re actually porous, and without proper sealing or maintenance, they can absorb water over time. Left unchecked, a leak can cause damage both inside and outside your home. From peeling paint to crumbling bricks, each clue tells a story about where water is getting in.

Chimneys are prime targets for birds, squirrels, raccoons, bats, and other small animals looking for a safe, warm place to nest. Without proper prevention, your chimney could quickly turn into a wildlife condo. The good news? With the right preventive measures, you can keep these creatures out and avoid both health hazards and repair bills. A professional Chimney Service can install protective barriers that allow smoke to escape but keep animals from entering. This kind of investment pays off by reducing long-term damage and eliminating the need for emergency wildlife removal.

Introduction to Chimney Waterproofing What is Chimney Waterproofing? Chimney waterproofing is a process designed to prevent water from seeping into the brick, mortar, and structural layers of a chimney. Water may not seem like a threat at first, but when left unchecked, it can quietly eat away at the chimney from the inside out. Over time, rain, snow, ice, and even humidity can cause serious damage to a chimney’s structure. Waterproofing involves applying a specially-formulated sealant to the exterior of the chimney. This breathable barrier keeps water out while still allowing moisture inside the brick to escape. Without this breathability, trapped moisture could freeze in winter, leading to cracks and damage. The Importance of Protecting Your Chimney When your chimney is exposed to constant moisture, it becomes vulnerable to decay. Even the smallest leak can lead to rusting metal components, deteriorating mortar joints, and dangerous mold. Waterproofing isn’t just preventative—it’s essential. Especially in rainy or snowy regions, it protects your home’s heating system, safety, and resale value.

Is your fireplace misbehaving? Dealing with smoke in your living room or spotting cracks on your chimney’s crown? If so, you're not alone. Chimney troubles are more common than most homeowners realize—but luckily, they can be solved with the right knowledge and expert care. In this guide, we’ll explore the most frequent chimney problems, how to spot them early, and how to fix them before they become major (and costly) disasters.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the hidden heroes of home safety—like your kitchen chimney. But regular kitchen chimney inspections are more than just routine checkups. They’re your first line of defense against fire hazards, harmful pollutants, and expensive damage. Grease buildup, carbon deposits, and unnoticed blockages can quietly build up inside your chimney system. Over time, these issues pose serious risks—not only to your home but to your health. The good news? Preventing all of that is as simple as setting up a chimney inspection. Let's break it all down.

Homeowners often forget about their chimney until a problem arises—like smoke backing into the living room or a fire scare on a chilly evening. But here's the deal: your chimney works silently and constantly , and if neglected, it can become a serious risk to your family's safety and your wallet. That's why regular chimney servicing is key to a safer, more efficient home . Routine checks and cleanings may seem like a small thing, but they carry big benefits. From protecting you against deadly carbon monoxide leaks to improving the efficiency of your heating system, proper chimney care is essential. And yes, it can even save you from expensive repairs down the road. Let’s explore how chimney servicing isn’t just a seasonal chore—it’s a crucial part of responsible homeownership.