This has been reviewed and updated on 3/25/2021.

One issue that home inspectors often point out in their reports has to do with the chimney's crown. It is typically a concrete slab on the uppermost point of the chimney chase.  The chimney's crown is often not visible or fully accessible, so it is often not properly maintained. This can lead to repair issues during the sale of a home.

What Causes Damage to Chimney Crowns?

The chimney crown protects the chimney chase from deterioration caused by weather exposure. If the crown is installed correctly, it acts like a helmet. Crowns  have a sloped overhang that helps shed water off the chimney.

One of the leading causes of failure is  poor initial installation. Crowns are meant to be customized to fit the chimney specifically. If a contractor or mason cuts corners, the crown won't work efficiently and will let moisture flow toward the interior of the chimney chase. This leads to damage in the chimney brick and the chimney flue.

What Happens If My Chimney Crown Gets Damaged?

Unfortunately, crown damage is often difficult to spot from the ground. It's usually only during chimney cleanings and home inspections that flaws get noticed. However, damaged, cracked brick below the crown is often an indication of a failed crown.

Repairs

If a property inspector finds minor cracks on the crown, a chimney mason can use a waterproof sealant to block moisture and minimize deterioration.

Replacement

A complete replacement may be necessary if  moisture has entered the chimney system and has damaged chase bricks and created large cracks in the crown.

Can You Prevent Chimney Crown Damage? 

The best way to save money in the long-term is through prevention. Invest in yearly chimney inspections. If your chimney vents a wood fireplace, have a chimney contractor perform a Level 2 Inspection every year. 

Homeowners should also invest in a rain cap or bonnet, which helps protect the chimney flue and the crown from moisture damage. It's attached on top of the flue. A bonnet has a metal roof and wire mess sides that help prevent  debris and pests from blocking the flue. 

Damage to a chimney's crown can be difficult to detect and expensive to repair. Before you sell your home, reach out to Archway Home Inspections, LLC for a pre-sale inspection. For nearly 20 years, Archway Home Inspections has provided home inspections and  radon mitigation in the Cincinnati area.  For more information on their services, visit their website. To schedule a home inspection, call them at (513) 871-1473.