Stove Depot and Chimney Works: We’re Fruita’s Trusted Chimney & Fireplace Pros

Can Leaks Around the Chimney Cause Mold in the Attic?

Yes – leaks around the chimney can definitely cause mold to form in the attic, as well as trigger other issues, like staining on your interior walls, rotting around the woodwork, and more. The big concern with attic damage, though, is that it often remains hidden unless someone happens upon it. Because of this, doing everything you can to avoid chimney leaks is a must.

How does mold even form in these situations? Well, mold spores are everywhere in the air and only need moisture, warmth, and organic material (like wood) to grow. When water leaks through chimney gaps and saturates attic insulation, wooden framing, or drywall, it creates an ideal environment for mold to thrive.

And mold isn’t something to underestimate. It triggers all kinds of issues from home damage (weakened wood framing, damaged insulation, etc.) to health hazards (like respiratory issues, allergies, or exacerbate asthma symptoms). Needless to say, mold can quickly reduce your home’s value too.

If you suspect you have mold caused by a chimney leak, don’t wait to book your inspection. We’d be happy to take a look, then offer suggestions for repairs and preventive opportunities.

How Do Chimney Leaks Form?

The chimney is a more complex structure than most people give it credit for. It seems pretty straightforward (a hole in your roof that lets out smoke and harmful fumes), but there are many components that make it up – most of which are necessary for preventing water entry.

The most common causes of chimney leaks are:

• Faulty Flashing: Flashing consists of metal sheets that seal the gap between the chimney and roof. If flashing deteriorates, rusts, or becomes loose, water can seep into this vulnerable area.
• Masonry Cracks: Bricks or mortar joints that aren’t properly waterproofed can crack or erode over time, allowing moisture to penetrate. This is especially true in areas like Fruita and Grand Junction, where we experience freeze/thaw cycles.
• Chimney Crown Damage: The concrete cap at the top of the chimney protects against water entry. If cracked or built from the wrong materials (a common issue for older chimneys), water can enter.
• Chase Cover Malfunctions: If you have a prefabricated chimney, you’ll have a chase cover in lieu of a chimney crown. These are made of metal and can rust and invite in water if damaged, rusted, or not installed correctly.
• Chimney Cap Flaws: The chimney cap is like the umbrella for that hole in the top of your flue. If your chimney cap is missing or damaged, it can allow rain and snow to enter the chimney flue (along with debris, animals, and more).

When water penetrates these areas, it often follows the path of least resistance into the attic space, which is usually directly adjacent or above the chimney. Oftentimes, this goes unnoticed until staining on the interior walls forms or someone goes into the attic and spots the problem areas.

Do You Need to Open the Wall to Find a Chimney Leak?

Sometimes! We try to avoid this if at all possible, but it may be necessary, depending on the leak’s location, severity, and how hidden the damage is. Chimneys often run inside or alongside walls, which can make leak detection tricky – and if we can’t find the problem, opening up the wall will be the next necessary step.

How can you detect a chimney leak without having to open up a wall to do so?

• Check for damage throughout your chimney crown, chase cover, flashing, mortar joints, and chimney cap.
• Examine the roof area around the chimney for signs of damage or pooling water.
• Inspect the attic space around and above the chimney for water stains, mold, or dampness.
• Book a chimney inspection with a certified chimney professional.

If external inspections and non-invasive tests don’t identify the leak source, opening a wall may be necessary – this is considered a level 3 chimney inspection. Opening the wall allows direct access to the framing, chimney chase, flashing connections, and any concealed issues.

All that said, this is not commonly how leak issues will be approached. In most cases, our non-invasive chimney inspection methods will indicate where the problem lies, so that we can provide appropriate repairs without having to tear apart any area of your home to do so.

Fruita, CO Chimney Services: Trust Us, Every Time

You can find Fruita, CO right in the heart of the Grand Valley, where it boasts plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. In fact, Fruita is well-known for its stunning landscapes and many mountain biking trails – there are over 100 miles of trails suitable for all skill levels, with the North Fruita Desert/18 Road trail system being a particularly popular option.

Like to explore trails, but prefer going on foot? Enjoy the natural beauty of Rattlesnake Canyon, which is located just outside Fruita and home to the second-highest concentration of natural arches in the U.S. Or, if you’d rather take to the water, the Colorado River provides ample opportunities for rafting, kayaking, paddleboarding, or leisurely floats through Ruby Canyon and Horsethief Canyon.

Other places to check out include the Western Slope Vietnam War Memorial, Dinosaur Journey Museum, the Fruita Community Center, and Moon Farm. And don’t miss out on any community events – like the Fat Tire Festival held every April, Mike the Headless Chicken Festival held in May, or the Fruita Fall Festival in September.

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, unique cultural experiences, or just a tight-knit community to join, Fruita is the place to go. We love traveling here to deliver quality fireplace products and top-notch chimney services, as well as surrounding areas, such as Clifton, Palisade, Glade Park, Whitewater, and more. Reach out now to schedule.

Your Fruita Chimney Sweep Provider: Call Today

Whether you need a routine sweep, a detailed inspection, or you’re exploring options for a new fireplace, Stove Depot and Chimney Works is here to help. We’re proud to serve the Fruita area with trusted chimney services and expert advice. Give us a call today – we’d love to answer your questions and get your home set up right.