Roofing, Windows, Siding since 1962

FAQ

Masonry FAQ

• What kind of masonry work does Mr Roof do?
  • We specialize in chimney repair and maintenance. Primarily, we repair the tops of chimney (crown) due to cracking and provide waterproofing?
• What is the most common masonry problem on the typical home?
  • Hands down it is the chimney and specifically it is the top cement portion of the chimney, known as the crown.
• What is a chimney crown?
  • A chimney crown is the top flat part of the chimney covered with cement. The crown is usually sloped to shed water. It protects and holds together the top of the chimney.
• Why is the crown so important?
  • The crown defends against water entering the chimney cavity. Once water has entered the chimney cavity, typically through cracks in the crown, it will do damage to the chimney and potentially the interior of your home.
• What type of damage results from a cracked crown?
  • When water enters the chimney in weather above freezing, it eventually breaks down the mortar and causes chimney damage. In winter, the freeze thaw effect can crack the chimney itself. Water seeping into the chimney cavity eventually will come into interior spaces of your home adding to the damage. Avoidable chimney damage can result in very expensive repairs.
• Why not just add more cement to a cracked crown?
  • This would be the same as adding more cement over a cracked sidewalk. The crack will reappear quickly. Mr Roof uses a special flexible crown compound that will not crack.
• What does Mr Roof use to repair cracked crowns?
  • Mr Roof uses Crown Seal, a product developed specifically for crown repair. Crown Seal remains flexible indefinitely and will not crack.
• Why do chimney crowns crack?
  • Cement is not very flexible. Expansion and contraction of the masonry is one reason for cracking. As well, like a cement sidewalk, very small cracks often develop during initial curing. Small cracks become large cracks over time.
• What exactly is considered a masonry chimney?
  • Any chimney made of masonry materials such as brick, stucco, stone, or block. Masonry is very porous and needs to be waterproofed.
• Why do chimneys need to be waterproofed?
  • Masonry is very porous. Water will leach into the masonry and break down the mortar holding together the chimney. Chimneys take weather abuse from all four sides and therefore are prone to problems. One application of our waterproofing will last for 10 years.
• Is the waterproofing silicone?
  • NO. Silicone simply coats the chimney and in some cases does more damage by holding moisture in. Our waterproofing is siloxane. Siloxane penetrates deep into the masonry, allows the masonry to breath, but protects against water infiltration.
• Will waterproofing change the look of my chimney?
  • NO. Our waterproofing is clear and will not change the look of your chimney.
• How long will the crown repair take?
  • Typically a few hours, depending on the size of the chimney.
• Is there an advantage to doing the crown repair with a new roof, windows, or siding?
  • Yes. Special discounts apply if we are on site doing other work.
• How do I know if I need a crown repair?
  • Our inspector will do a free inspection. We’d be glad to take a photo and show you if in fact there is damage. A little maintenance now can save you a lot of money in the future.