Water around a chimney needs a source investigation. A stain inside the home does not identify which exterior component has failed.
Updated September 10, 2026
Your home in Tacoma.
About 34% of occupied homes in Tacoma heat primarily with utility gas. A chimney in Tacoma may therefore serve an oil, electric, or wood-heated home, so identify the appliance connected to each flue before planning service. About 0.7% of occupied homes in Tacoma use wood as their primary heating fuel. Most fireplaces in Tacoma see occasional use, and even occasional use calls for an inspection before the heating season. The nearest NOAA climate normals station (Tacoma Number 1, about 2 miles from the Tacoma city center) averages 4,386 heating degree days per year. That is a moderate heating season, but moisture still reaches masonry year-round, so note when water appears and have the source investigated before choosing a surface treatment.
What you can observe safely
- Note whether the leak follows rain, snowmelt, or wind.
- Photograph the stain from a dry, safe position.
What to avoid
- Do not climb onto the roof or enter the chimney.
- Do not alter gas components, venting, or safety controls.
- Do not use a test fire to diagnose the problem.
Possible causes to assess
- Roof or flashing connection
- Crown, cap, or masonry condition
- Moisture paths that need tracing
A symptom cannot establish the cause remotely. An assessment of the complete system helps determine the appropriate repair.
Chimney repair in TacomaA few common questions
Can this be diagnosed from a photo?
A photo can document a symptom and help prepare a visit. It cannot confirm concealed conditions or establish that a chimney or fuel-burning appliance is safe.