Single skin wall leak chimney breast

[monkman]

:shock: We have a problem with a leak along the join between the ceiling and chimney breast and patches of damp above the fireplace in an Edwardian terrace. We got quotes from several roofers. All said it was the flashing. This was replaced several times, the roof (which was very old) was replaced too and, when none of these worked, the chimney stack was taken down. It still leaks when it rains. The roofer said he was surprised when he took down the stack that it was single skin (it is an exterior wall). The gutter (which was replaced) is attached to a strip of wood that runs along the entire top of the exterior wall, sitting just below the overhanging tiles. There has never been sign of damp in the loft. What do you suggest the problem may be?
Many thanks

 

[MdB]

Photos?

 

[chuckey]

Are you sure its actually damp with water? if its just darkening of the decor, it could be caused by the migration of tars that are inside the flue. You have answered your own question the water is soaking into the wall at a lower level then the roof, and for what ever reason the dampness is only visible on the front face of the chimney breast. For a possible cure, try painting on a SILICONE base damp roofer, it may cause the bricks to darken but will not cause any further degredation (unlike some non silicone "proofers")
Frank

 

[MdB]

...SILICONE base damp roofer...

I think many here would say that this is not a good solution as it would trap the moisture in the brickwork. Better would be to sort the cause of the problem if you can identify it. Could condensation be the cause?

 

[Penners]

As MdB has said, photos would really help everyone to understand the way the structure works and where the "damp" is appearing.