Expert: James Ball - 4/18/2009

Question
We have a 1890's New Englander with a center chimney. There is a water problem, which creates water damage to the 2nd story walls and ceiling which we cannot figure out. Neither could the previous owners, (we bought in 2003)
The roof has been replaced and the chimney/roof connection is NOT the problem. A cap has been applied. Still leaks.
What would you recommend we look at next?
Thanks
Ellen  

Answer
Hello Ellen, has the inside of the chimney been inspected? I would have a local Certified Chimney Sweep (www.csia.org, there you can look up by zip code to find one near you) take a first hand look at what you have, if you are heating with Natural gas it could be a blockage, the sweep would do a Level Two NFPA inspection including video scan of all flues (heating first). If it still leaks then cover the top of the chimney with a tarp (DO NOT COVER HEATING FLUES) to be sure the water is coming in at the chimney and not some where else like a backed up gutter
keep me posted
James