What Type of Chimney Do You Have?

Stone or brick masonry, gas or wood burning…There are many types of chimneys out there! Are you wondering what type of chimney you have in your home? Knowing the type of chimney you have is important for proper maintenance. In this article, we will discuss the different types of chimneys, their characteristics, and how to identify which type you have in your home.

Stone vs. Brick Masonry Chimneys

There are lots of different styles and designs of chimneys. You might have noticed a few of them while walking around your neighborhood. The most popular chimney type is brick masonry. This type of chimney is great if you like a more traditional home look. Maintenance and upkeep of a brick masonry chimney can be challenging, as the materials such as mortar and brick are porous. Over time, the constant exposure to the elements deteriorates the masonry and brick. In the Chicagoland area, this can be a real challenge, with spring and summer storms and winter snow.

Another common chimney type you might have seen around your neighborhood are stone chimneys. Stone chimneys aren’t too structurally different from brick chimneys. Stones are held together with the same porous mortar, which deteriorates over time.

Gas Chimneys

Gas chimneys are different from stone and brick masonry chimneys. Gas chimneys have a different structure, inside and out. On larger buildings, like apartments, you might notice small pipes attached to a gas heater inside which then leads to a small vent outside. The vent looks like a metal pipe sticking out of the building. This type of chimney generally experiences the least amount of water damage. 

Metal Chimneys

Metal chimneys are best made of stainless steel and are used with modern fireplaces. They are lightweight, but don’t provide as much insulation as stone or brick chimneys.

Is there “a Best” Chimney Type? Your preference is what chimney type is best for you! Let’s find out what that is. Aesthetically pleasing stone or brick masonry chimneys that are pleasing to the eye, or a metal chimney that looks more contemporary and cleaner. However, whatever your preference is or chimney you currently have, you still must have your chimney inspected once a year. A certified technician will help with inspecting the inside and outside of your chimney to make sure that it’s fireworthy and in good, working order. Though a metal chimney requires less repair, it’s still important to get it swept and checked by a certified technician once a year. Leaks happen to all chimney types and build up occurs as well. If you are interested in looking into the type of chimney you have and want to keep it in good working order for the coming fall and winter, call Superior Chimney for an inspection today at 877-244-6349.

This post first appeared on https://www.superiorchimney.net