Chimney inspections and repairs for Lake Holden homes

Water standing on the firebox floor, or a damp, dark patch on the back wall after a storm, means rain is getting into the chimney from somewhere above. Lake Holden is an Orlando neighborhood recognized by the city, and for homes there with a masonry fireplace, finding that entry point quickly keeps a small leak from becoming a masonry repair.

Rain reaches the firebox by a few routes. The simplest is straight down an uncapped flue, which a proper cap solves. A cracked or poorly sloped crown lets water into the brick around the flue, and it can seep through to the smoke chamber and firebox. Open mortar joints and porous brick on the chimney face soak up wind-driven rain.

Failed flashing at the roof line sends water into the chimney structure or the framing beside it. Sometimes more than one route is involved. The pattern of the water helps us sort them out. Water only during heavy rain with strong wind often points to the face or flashing. Water every time it rains, even lightly, points toward the top.

A rusty damper, damp soot with a strong odor and white deposits on the firebox walls are clues we note as well. Keep a simple record of when water appears and how much, and do not light a fire on wet masonry. Our technicians inspect the cap, crown, flue, flashing and chimney face, and look at the firebox, smoke chamber and damper for water damage.

The estimate names the entry point being repaired and lists any damage it caused as a separate item, so you can see what stops the leak and what repairs its effects. Waterproofing, if it is recommended at all, comes after the repairs. We are locally owned and family run. The inspection at your Lake Holden home is free, and every repair is priced upfront in writing.

Save 10% on the job by booking within 72 hours after the inspection, and the repairs carry our workmanship warranty. Ask about same-day service; it is available when the schedule allows.