Quick answer
At the Jersey Shore, salt air corrodes metal caps, chase covers and flashing much faster than inland, and wind-driven rain soaks into brick. Use stainless steel or copper parts, waterproof the masonry, and have seasonal homes inspected before the first fire of the year.
What the coast does to chimneys
- Galvanized caps and chase covers rust through in just a few years
- Wind-driven rain pushes water sideways into brick and under flashing
- Nor'easters and coastal storms loosen caps and damage crowns
Best practices for shore homes
- Stainless steel (or copper) caps, chase covers and fasteners
- Breathable water repellent on brick chimneys
- Inspection after major storms
- A pre-season sweep and inspection for homes that sit empty part of the year — nests and debris build up while no one is there
We serve Monmouth, Ocean, Atlantic and Cape May counties.
More questions
How often should a shore house chimney be inspected?
Once a year, plus after any major coastal storm.
Need a local professional?
Chimney Champs has been a local chimney company for 13 years. We provide chimney waterproofing & leak repair in your area. Call (856) 300-9215 for a free estimate.
Sources & further reading
- NFPA 211 — Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel-Burning Appliances (National Fire Protection Association)
- Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)
Keep reading
- Philadelphia Rowhome Chimneys: Shared Flues, Party Walls and Common Problems
- How Often Should You Clean Your Chimney?
- 9 Signs Your Chimney Needs Repair
- Chimney Inspection Levels 1, 2 and 3 Explained
- What Is Creosote? The 3 Stages and Why It Causes Chimney Fires
- Why Is My Chimney Leaking? 6 Causes and How to Fix Them