Chimney Sealing: Separate Masonry Repairs from Flashing Repairs

What to check first

• Look for cracks at the crown and open mortar joints.
• Inspect step flashing, base flashing, and counterflashing as separate components.
• Use a suitable masonry repair for damaged joints and a compatible roof repair for a confirmed flashing defect.

Inspect masonry and roof flashing separately

1. Start above the roof line

   The cap, crown, brickwork, and mortar joints are possible entry paths. A surface coating cannot restore loose masonry or a damaged structural component.

2. Inspect the flashing layers

   Look at the base connection to the roof and the counterflashing that protects it above. Repairing a lower seam will not stop water entering behind an open upper termination.

3. Match the material to the defect

   Use appropriate masonry repairs for failed mortar or crown damage. For a confirmed roof-flashing defect, verify the exposed materials and current product compatibility before applying a reinforced repair.

Watch the field examples

These archive demonstrations show individual projects. Use the current guidance above and Bergstrom’s published instructions if an older video shows a different product or method. Torch work shown in installation videos is professional work.

From the project archive