Chimney Repair to Address Water Damage and Potential Mold in a Living Room Ceiling
Challenge
The homeowner contacted Klaus Larsen Roofing after noticing water stains and damage in the living room ceiling near the chimney. Over time, water had been seeping through compromised chimney flashing and damaged roofing materials, creating a high risk of mold and mildew growth. Temporary fixes like tar patches and sealant had failed to stop the water intrusion, leaving the homeowner concerned about the health and safety of their family. The issue was exacerbated by deteriorated wood decking around the chimney, which weakened the structural integrity of the roof in this area.
Adding to the urgency, the damage around the chimney was causing water to pool and seep through layers of the roof, potentially leading to further degradation. The homeowner feared that if left unchecked, the moisture would continue to spread, causing more damage and increasing repair costs. An immediate and comprehensive solution was required to not only stop the water intrusion but also to eliminate the risk of mold, mildew, and future leaks.
Solution
To address the issue, Klaus Larsen Roofing performed a thorough inspection and developed a step-by-step plan to repair the chimney and roof. The first step involved removing the failing materials, including the old tar patches, deteriorated flashing, and damaged underlayment. This allowed the team to fully expose the decking and assess the extent of the water damage. By removing compromised wood decking around the chimney, they created a solid foundation for the repairs.
Once the damaged materials were removed, new plywood decking was installed in place of the rotten sections, and a premium waterproof underlayment was applied to create a durable moisture barrier. The team custom-fabricated and installed a new chimney flashing system, carefully sealing all edges to prevent future leaks. Finally, new shingles were installed to integrate seamlessly with the existing roof, ensuring both functionality and aesthetics. With the final inspection complete, the homeowner could rest easy knowing their home was protected against water damage and mold.
