The Importance of Storm Collars
Stopping water penetration of your chimney is an important responsibility for homeowners. Water can leak into your chimney and cause a lot of destruction to your home. Consequently, this includes the corrosion of metal components. Including components like the damper and chimney liner and the staining of ceilings and walls. Plus, even the rotting of the wooden structures which are adjacent to the chimney.
Water not only damages your chimney and home. In addition, the presence of moisture in your chimney can also lead to mold growth. Since it rains quite a bit in Austin, TX, Atlas Chimney has been working for over 25 years on preventing chimney water leaks. We know the best methods of keeping water out of your chimney and we will ensure your chimney is leak-proof. One of the best preventive measures we use is a storm collar as part of a flashing system. We would like to tell you more about storm collars. Also, how they are an important part of a good flashing system to protect your chimney from water penetration.
What exactly is a storm collar?
A storm collar is also known as a chimney collar. It is most often used with prefabricated chimneys. This is to prevent rain from getting into the space where the chimney pipe meets the roof. It is usually built into the flashing system around the chimney. Comparable to a chimney cap for masonry chimneys, storm collars are different because instead of sitting at the top of the chimney like a cap does, they fit directly onto the chimney pipe.
How long will my storm collar last?
While storm collars are durable, they do not last forever. Eventually you will have to replace your storm collar. Notice water in the attic or water stains on the ceiling in the room of your fireplace? If so, it is time to replace your storm collar, according to the Home Guides at SF Gate.
Why do I need a flashing system?
The area around your chimney where it meets the roof is very vulnerable and needs to be protected by a flashing system. This is constructed of sheets of metal that are strategically layered on the roof and wrapped around the chimney. Providing a watertight barrier, water from rain and snow will be unable to enter at this point. Not only does Atlas Chimney repair flashing systems, but we can also construct new customized flashing systems. This will stop water from leaking into your chimney. When our customers have a prefabricated chimney that consists of a metal pipe, a storm collar will always be used as an important part of the flashing system.
Prevent water penetration of your chimney this spring. Contact us at Atlas Chimney to learn more about storm collars and our flashing system services!