Chimney leaks in Arundel: why they happen
Chimney stacks take the brunt of Arundel weather. They sit high on the roof and face rain, wind and frost from every direction. Over time mortar joints can crumble, flaunching around the pots can crack, caps may fail and lead flashing can split or pull away from the brickwork. Any small gap can draw in water and that can show up as damp patches on ceilings, peeling paint or a musty smell in the loft. Period homes around the castle and newer houses across town are equally affected. The good news is that targeted repointing, sensible capping and properly detailed flashing will stop water getting in and keep your chimney sound for years.
Repointing that seals out the weather
Repointing restores the mortar that binds your chimney together and keeps rain out of the joints. We rake out the failed mortar to a sound depth, brush the joints clean, lightly dampen the brickwork and pack in a suitable mix. On older properties we can use lime-based mortar that allows the stack to breathe. On newer builds a modern sand and cement mix may be appropriate. We match colour and texture so repairs blend in, then tool the joints for a neat finish that sheds water. Where needed we renew or repair the flaunching around pots to create a smooth, water-shedding surface.
Signs your stack needs repointing
- Mortar joints that look recessed, cracked or powdery
- Damp staining on chimney breasts or ceilings after rain
- Moss or vegetation growing from joints
- Loose or cracked flaunching around chimney pots
Capping, pots and cowls
Correct capping helps keep rain out while allowing the flue to breathe. Disused flues are best fitted with vented caps that stop direct water ingress but maintain air movement to prevent condensation. Working flues should have appropriate cowls that reduce rain entry, improve draw and keep out birds. We size caps and cowls to suit the pot and flue, check the condition of the pots themselves and form smooth flaunching that sheds water away from the stack. Small changes here often cure persistent drips that show up only in heavy weather.
Lead flashing and soakers
The junction where the roof meets the chimney is a common leak point. Proper leadwork is essential. Step flashing should be chased into the brickwork, dressed to the roof covering and fixed with lead wedges, then finished with a suitable pointing material. Along the sides of the stack, individual soakers sit beneath each course of tile or slate to guide water away. At the front an apron flashing keeps rain from driving under the roof. At the back a back gutter or saddle carries water around the stack. We size lead correctly, allow for thermal movement and treat new lead with patination oil to reduce staining.
Typical flashing fixes
- Replacing split or undersized lead with correctly coded lead
- Recutting shallow chases and rewedging loose steps
- Renewing side soakers that have corroded or slipped
- Re-forming back gutters and saddles to improve water flow
- Repointing lead chases with a lead-safe pointing material
Our approach in Arundel
Every chimney is different, so we start with a careful roof-level inspection and clear photographs. You get straightforward advice, a practical repair plan and tidy workmanship. In Arundel we are mindful of conservation needs and the character of local brickwork, so we select materials and methods that respect the property. Access and safety are planned properly, whether that is scaffold or mobile access, and we keep disruption to neighbours to a minimum. When we finish, we leave the roof clean and provide aftercare guidance so you know how to keep the stack in good order.
Maintenance tips to prevent future leaks
- Have the chimney and flashing checked before winter sets in
- Keep gutters and valleys clear so water does not back up
- Make sure caps and cowls are secure after high winds
- Look in the loft for damp after prolonged rain
Book a chimney check
If you have damp marks below the chimney, hear dripping in the flue or can see cracked joints from the ground, it is time to act. Prompt repointing, capping and flashing repairs will protect your home and save money. Speak to the team at Roofing Arundel to arrange a visit and get clear, friendly advice on the best fix for your chimney.