How Summer Weather Affects Your Chimney – and What to Do About It
When summer hits Georgia, most homeowners shift their focus to air conditioning and backyard BBQs—not their chimney. But while your fireplace may be taking a seasonal break, your chimney is still exposed to heat, humidity, and summer storms that can cause real damage if left unaddressed.
At Southern Chimneys, LLC, we know the unique challenges Georgia’s climate brings, and we’re here to help you protect your home all year long. Here’s how summer weather can impact your chimney — and what you can do about it.
Moisture Intrusion & Stinky Chimneys
High humidity and frequent thunderstorms are a normal part of Georgia summers, but they can wreak havoc on your chimney. When moisture enters the flue — especially in chimneys with leftover creosote or soot — it mixes to create a sour, smoky odor that drifts into your home.
What to do:
- Schedule a professional chimney cleaning & inspection to remove odor-causing buildup.
- Make sure your chimney cap is properly fitted and sealed to keep rain and debris out.
Animals & Nesting Problems
With warm weather comes nesting season. Birds, squirrels, and even raccoons see an open chimney as prime real estate. Unfortunately, their nests block airflow, create fire hazards, and can introduce pests and parasites into your home.
What to do:
- Have your chimney inspected for signs of animal activity.
- Install a custom outside-mount chimney cap with mesh screening to keep critters out.
Heat, Storms & Masonry Damage
Georgia’s hot sun and heavy rains create a damaging cycle for masonry chimneys. Heat causes expansion, rainwater seeps into cracks, and over time, this can lead to crumbling bricks or deteriorating mortar joints — especially near the roofline.
What to do:
- Schedule a chimney inspection to catch small issues early.
- Complete any necessary masonry repairs or tuckpointing during the summer.
- After repairs, apply a chemical waterproofing treatment to shield against further damage.
Summer Is the Best Time for Chimney Work
Don’t wait until fall to find out your chimney needs repairs. Summer is the ideal time to handle cleanings, inspections, repairs, and waterproofing — before you need to use your fireplace again.
At Southern Chimneys, LLC, we offer:
- Chimney cleanings
- Cap installations
- Masonry and crown repairs
- Waterproofing
- Full system inspections
- All fireplace and chimney repairs/maintenance
Protect Your Home Before the Burn Season Returns
Your chimney might not be top of mind in the summer, but ignoring it now can lead to costly damage and safety concerns later. Let the professionals at Southern Chimneys, LLC make sure your system is in top shape before fall.
📞 Call us today at 678.744.4046
🌐 Visit us online: www.SouthernChimneys.com
📍 Proudly serving the greater Atlanta, GA area
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