Skill Builder Guides & reviews for building and construction
People spend thousands trying to cure this problem – Damp chimney!
Summary
🔥 Damp chimneys are a persistent issue – Many people struggle with moisture in their chimneys even after spending significant money on repairs.
💨 Old fireplaces helped keep chimneys dry – In the past, fires burned daily, preventing moisture build-up. When fireplaces were sealed, problems damp chimney related issues arose.
🔄 Ventilation is crucial but tricky – Air bricks are recommended to maintain airflow, but warm indoor air can carry moisture into the chimney.
❄️ Condensation forms in cold spots – Moist air rising in the chimney condenses when it hits the cold bricks above the roofline, causing damp patches.
🔍 Misdiagnosis leads to unnecessary repairs – Many homeowners spend money on flashing, repointing, or capping without solving the underlying issue.
🏠 Moisture inside the house contributes – High indoor humidity (up to 60%) can exacerbate chimney dampness, leading to persistent problems.
📏 Simple humidity checks can help – Using inexpensive humidity sensors can identify if excessive moisture in the house is a contributing factor.
🛠 Solutions before major repairs – Reduce indoor humidity using dehumidifiers, extractor fans, or increased ventilation before making structural changes.
🏗 Chimney sweeping and reconfiguring ventilation – Removing built-up soot and salts can help, along with placing air bricks in external walls rather than inside the house.
⚠️ Avoid warm indoor air ventilating the chimney – This can worsen condensation, making the problem harder to fix.
Insights Based on Numbers
£1,000 – Estimated cost of replacing chimney flashing, which may not solve the issue.
60%+ humidity – If indoor humidity is above this level, condensation-related dampness becomes more likely.
£5-£20 – Cost of humidity sensors, an inexpensive way to diagnose moisture problems before making expensive repairs.
4 Roofers Couldn’t Solve This Damp Chimney!
