According to the Brick Industry Association, chimneys require special attention and maintenance to prevent costly damage caused by water penetration. Because chimneys project above the roof line, they are vulnerable to the elements. Nearly every chimney you encounter has signs of water damage!
The first step is to determine the cause and then find the best corrective measures. ChimneySaver, the first product developed specifically for chimneys, has been used successfully by leading chimney professionals for nearly 20 years.
It reduces water penetration into the masonry by 99.9%, according to ASTM tests conducted at the University of Wyoming.
It’s also 100% vapor permeable, which means it won’t trap water vapors that may pass through the bricks when the chimney is in use, unlike other products found in most hardware or home improvement stores. Those products when applied to a masonry chimney can actually slow down water vapors as they pass through the chimney, leading to water damage.
Whether to Use Water-Base or Solvent-Base
ChimneySaver is available in both solvent (mineral spirits) and water-based formulas. The water-based formula is most popular; however, if a water repellent has previously been applied to the masonry, we recommend the solvent-based formula.
Moisture from a variety of sources is always present in masonry and concrete. Sealers and silicone coatings form a water-resistant surface film which traps water vapors inside. If these vapors cannot escape, they will contribute to spalling, scaling, deterioration, and freeze-thaw damage. ChimneySaver is 100% vapor permeable – a non-film-forming water repellent that penetrates and lines masonry pores.