The most important preventative maintenance item is sealing the masonry, or, “waterproofing”. This inhibits the water from absorbing into the masonry and deteriorating it. We spray a product made by Drylok called Siloxane7 on the exterior chimney. This is comprised of 7% silicone particles and absorbs into the masonry. After briefly curing clear, it preserves the chimney by repelling water while allowing the chimney to breathe. Because of its repellent properties, it prevents those nasty blackish stains and even if staining is already present, we can pressure wash them away, then seal the masonry. When properly applied, waterproofing is effective for 10+ years.
