Gap between Flue Tile and Crown

[Beer Belly]

Earlier this week, I gave the Chimney the best sweep I've ever given it.....usually a quick scrub on the way down, and another on the way back up....this time, I would do a couple of feet, scrub a full minute, then go another couple of feet, and scrub again.....got a lot of crap in the firebox (all flakey, no chunks)...anyhow, I noticed that there is a small gap / space between the Flue Tile, and the Cement Crown.....less than 1/8 inch.....I'm thinking this is probably okay, but want to ask the experts, and if it needs to be caulked, what do I use ???

 

[pen]

I've always caulked it using any good quality silicone.

 

[BrotherBart]

Yeah caulk it. You don't want water running down in that thing. And worse, freezing and expanding in the gap.

 

[webby3650]

Yes, definetly caulk it! It uncommon to have an expansion joint there, your lucky. They should all have one but most often don't resulting in a cracked flue tile and busted crown. Caulk it with either good quality silicone or my favorite is concrete crack sealer from quickrete. It stays pliable and is approved as expansion joint filler for cement.

 

[Beer Belly]

Thanks guys......I'll get it done this week, probably use concrete crack sealer from quickrete.....I may actually have some.