Efflorescence Chimney Attic

It is also seen with high efficiency oil furnaces.

Efflorescence chimney attic.

Some could be caused by rainfall soaking into the brick. Stains and leak damage to a chimney may be visible in the attic brown or black oozing stains may appear on both masonry chimney and metal chimney exteriors though if the metal chimney was properly assembled such leaks onto the metal chimney exterior surface are unlikely. Premature deterioration of the masonry structure is occurring. Cleaning efflorescence although rarely harmful efflorescence can still be unsightly on a chimney.

Defining efflorescence efflorescence is a white crystallized or powdery substance found on stone block or brick masonry. A chimney sweep has chemical mixes designed specially for taking care of this problem. We are experienced in working with many common chimney problems including efflorescence. Damage associated with moisture in the chimney.

The salty liquid then evaporates when exposed to the atmosphere and leaves the salt residue on the exterior of the chimney. Most of the time the rain will wash it away but sometimes it is necessary to remove tougher stains. If efflorescence is visible on your chimney it s safe to assume that there is more going on than staining. The moisture which creates deposits on the chimney also adds moisture in the attic.

Chimney efflorescence often occurs when gas appliances such as furnaces and water heaters are used and vented into masonry chimneys. But if the amount of efflorescence on your chimney is excessive it may be cause for concern. Inspectors should know how to remove efflorescence from surfaces and educate their clients about its identification and significance. There are two possible sources of the moisture.

If you have signs of an efflorescence problem on your chimney s exterior trust the team at chimney solutions for help. Its presence indicates excess water a condition that can damage interiors and encourage the growth of mold. But more likely and more serious the problem is moisture in warm air from inside the house condensing on the interior of the chimney during cold weather. The efflorescence is evidence that your chimney is regularly wet.

In summary efflorescence is a harmless yet unsightly accumulation of salts on masonry surfaces. Far from being only a visual eyesore the condition is actually showing that the chimney is allowing water through the masonry which will cause structural deterioration and other problems.