Waterproofing Your Chimney with RainTite®

Chimneys are exposed to the elements year-round. Rain, snow, wind, you name it; they weather the worst of storms. This also means chimneys can be particularly vulnerable to water damage. Moisture is one of the leading causes of chimney deterioration and damage. Luckily for homeowners, products such as RainTite® are professional-grade waterproofing solutions that protect chimneys from the elements. 

Why Chimney Waterproofing Matters

By design, chimneys are porous. Brick, mortar, and masonry absorb water. This means chimneys are prone to freeze-thaw cycles that can lead to cracking and spalling. As temperatures plummet, any water inside the chimneys freezes and expands. Once a thaw hits, the ice turns to water and contracts. This process leads to cracks for water to travel inside. Homeowners may notice interior leaks, mold or mildew, rust, and even structural damage over time. A bit of prevention today can save on costly repairs in the future.

What is RainTite® Chimney Waterproofing?

RainTite® is a breathable, vapor-permeable waterproofing product. Its technology repels water without trapping moisture inside the masonry. Professionals apply this product by following a thorough process. First, they clean and fully prep the surface. Then, they’ll use specialized low-pressure sprayers or rollers to apply the product from top to bottom until it is fully saturated. Once it fully dries, the chimney will have an invisible, breathable barrier that repels water.

Signs Your Chimney May Need Waterproofing

There are a few telltale signs that your chimney may need waterproofing, or at the least, professional assistance. If you notice damage, look for the following signs:

• Efflorescence, or white staining on bricks, indicates the presence of water
• Spalling or flaking masonry
• Mildew or damp smells near your fireplace
• Rusted or damaged chimney components
• Interior wall or ceiling staining and smells

If you’re experiencing any of these signs, there is a good chance that water is present. While it may indicate other things, such as damaged components, you should contact professionals for repairs sooner rather than later.

When to Waterproof Your Chimney

If you’re experiencing any of the above, you will likely need a chimney professional to inspect your chimney. They will conduct a thorough inspection to get to the root cause of the water damage. After this inspection or any other minor repairs, it is the best time to fix the issues. The best time to get this work done is in the spring or fall, so it doesn’t interfere with the regular burning season. Unfortunately, if damage is too advanced or severe, reconstruction may be required before applying the waterproofing.

Waterproof with RainTite® and Approved Industries

Approved Industries provides innovative, advanced ceramic coatings and thermal protective systems to seal and protect your masonry chimney, both inside and out, easily and affordably. Our specialty products, including RainTite®, are available exclusively for use by approved chimney and fireplace professionals. Visit our website to find a certified installer near you and to explore our full range of advanced ceramic coatings.