Its presence indicates excess water a condition that can damage interiors and encourage the growth of mold.
Efflorescence chimney attic.
But if the amount of efflorescence on your chimney is excessive it may be cause for concern.
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.
We are experienced in working with many common chimney problems including efflorescence.
Cleaning efflorescence although rarely harmful efflorescence can still be unsightly on a chimney.
When the moisture evaporates minerals that had been dissolved in the water are left behind as a visible sign of the evaporation.
Some could be caused by rainfall soaking into the brick.
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.
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.
It is also seen with high efficiency oil furnaces.
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.
There are two possible sources of the moisture.
Most of the time the rain will wash it away but sometimes it is necessary to remove tougher stains.
Damage associated with moisture in the chimney.
In summary efflorescence is a harmless yet unsightly accumulation of salts on masonry surfaces.
Premature deterioration of the masonry structure is occurring.
The salty liquid then evaporates when exposed to the atmosphere and leaves the salt residue on the exterior of the chimney.
A chimney sweep has chemical mixes designed specially for taking care of this problem.
If you have signs of an efflorescence problem on your chimney s exterior trust the team at chimney solutions for help.
A small amount of efflorescence is common.
The efflorescence is evidence that your chimney is regularly wet.
Chimney efflorescence often occurs when gas appliances such as furnaces and water heaters are used and vented into masonry chimneys.