We headed out to Newport News, Virginia, where the combination of coastal moisture and older architecture always keeps us on our toes. Brian uncovered a classic example of why a popular home makeover trend actually spells serious trouble for local homeowners.

The Problem

During our inspection, he found a painted brick chimney with severe mortar deterioration. The homeowners wanted a fresh, clean look for their exterior, but over time, the mortar joints between the bricks began to crumble and flake away. What looked like a sturdy, protective coat of paint was actually hiding an expensive masonry disaster waiting to happen. The bricks weren't just aging; they were being suffocated.

The Technical Why

Here is the thing about masonry: bricks need to breathe.

  • Trapped Moisture: In the Tidewater region, we deal with heavy humidity, salt air, and coastal storms. Bricks naturally absorb this moisture.

  • Low-Perm Paint: When a chimney is coated in standard, low-permeability (or "low-perm") house paint, it seals the surface completely.

  • The Breakdown: The trapped moisture has nowhere to escape. During seasonal temperature shifts, that trapped water expands and contracts, destroying the mortar from the inside out.

Think of it like wearing a rubber raincoat while running a marathon in July—the moisture is trapped, and things break down quickly.

Professional Advice

We want you to be able to sleep peacefully through the next heavy downpour knowing your roof and chimney are completely watertight and your family is tucked away safe and dry. If you want to update your brickwork without causing expensive deterioration, always use a specialized, breathable masonry stain rather than a standard coat of paint.

Whenever you're ready to take a closer look at your chimney or if you are worried about a leak, we are just a phone call away. Give us a shout at 757-867-6600 or fill out the form on this page.