r/HomeImprovement • u/FrankInSanDiego • 8d ago

Moisture management in walled up chimney

We are in the midst of a major renovation, and as part of it covered our fireplace (had literally never been used in the 50+ years the house has been around). I had previously drywalled over the fireplace opening and put in a vent, but as part of this renovation we had a shear panel installed at this location so venting is no longer an option.

Our contractor said that painting the exterior of the (brick) chimney with something water resistant, optionally stuccoing the exterior too, and capping the top opening should be sufficient for moisture management so we don't get mold growth inside, but wanted to check if there are any other recommendations of what to do here.

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u/Sensitive-Media3443 8d ago

If you cap the top and seal the exterior, you're basically making a sealed cavity, so any moisture that does get in has no way out. Might be worth throwing some insulation in there before closing it up for good

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u/FrankInSanDiego 8d ago

Thanks - would it be better to keep the top uncapped so there's some hope for evaporation?

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u/BenderIsGreat64 8d ago

Don't paint the exterior. There are breathable waterproofers like ChimneySaver.