A chimney crown is the masonry or concrete slab that covers the top opening of your chimney. It sits at the very top, sealing the chimney from the outside elements. Its main job is to direct rainwater and snowmelt away from the chimney flue and masonry below, preventing moisture from seeping into your home’s chimney system. In Haverhill, MA, where winters bring heavy snow and spring and fall are known for long stretches of rain, this simple structure plays an enormous role in extending the lifespan of your chimney.
A properly installed chimney crown prevents water infiltration, brick erosion, mortar deterioration, freeze-thaw cracking, and even pest intrusion. Without a chimney crown—or with a poorly constructed one—your entire chimney system becomes vulnerable to decay, especially in cold weather when trapped water expands and contracts within the brickwork. Over time, this leads to structural issues, costly repairs, and even chimney failure. That’s why Haverhill Chimney Solutions considers crown installation not just a service—but a necessity.
Our technicians conduct detailed visual inspections and moisture tests to determine the condition of your chimney crown. In many cases, an old or improperly constructed crown can be replaced with a high-quality, reinforced concrete crown with a properly angled slope and overhang, designed to protect the flue and shed water away from the masonry below. By installing a new chimney crown, you stop moisture intrusion at its source and give your chimney a new lease on life.
Many of the homes in Haverhill, MA—whether historic or newly built—suffer from failing chimney crowns because they were not constructed to the right specifications. Some older homes were built with crowns that were too thin or made from basic mortar rather than concrete, which quickly erodes under weather exposure. Others were designed without the proper drip edge, allowing water to run down the brickwork.
Inexperienced or unlicensed contractors may also use substandard materials or apply improper installation techniques, leading to premature crown cracking or separation from the chimney structure. In Haverhill’s climate, freeze-thaw cycles can rapidly accelerate these failures. What begins as a hairline crack in the crown can widen and allow water to infiltrate the chimney each time it rains or snows. At Haverhill Chimney Solutions, we follow industry best practices and local building codes to install chimney crowns that resist these harsh environmental factors.
At Haverhill Chimney Solutions, we’ve refined a precise chimney crown installation process that prioritizes longevity, waterproofing, and structural integrity. We begin by removing the old or damaged crown material completely, preparing the chimney top for a new pour. Using forms and reinforced materials, we pour a custom concrete crown that is thicker at the center and slopes downward in all directions to facilitate water runoff. Our crowns are engineered with a proper drip edge—extending at least two inches beyond the chimney edge—to prevent water from running down the masonry.
Each chimney crown we install in Haverhill, MA is designed to last for decades. We reinforce the concrete with steel or fiberglass mesh, depending on the size and weight of the chimney structure. The finished crown is sealed with a waterproof membrane or breathable masonry sealant, enhancing its resistance to water penetration and surface erosion. This attention to detail ensures that your crown will not only function as intended but also blend seamlessly with the aesthetic of your home.
Haverhill, MA
info@haverhillchimneysolutions.com
(857) 367-0200
Don’t wait until a small chimney issue becomes a major hazard. Whether you need a chimney sweep, inspection, repair, or cleaning in Haverhill, MA, Haverhill Chimney Solutions is ready to help. Call us today at (857) 367-0200 to schedule an appointment or request a free estimate.
Let us keep your chimney in perfect condition so you can enjoy a warm, safe, and efficient home all year long!