Author: admin

Whether your chimney is crumbling from moisture damage or old age, it’s a significant problem that must be addressed. Two solutions to a damaged and crumbling chimney are repointing and rebuilding. Chimney masonry services can bring your chimney back into tip-top shape and save you from major headaches down the road. So, what’s the difference between chimney rebuilding and chimney repointing?

Chimney Repointing

The chimney is constructed with motor joints to keep the structure in place. As years go by, the mortar joints can begin to decay and create voids in areas of your chimney such as in between the bricks. This is typically the result of exposure to the elements, including the freeze and thaw cycle during brutal Boston winters.

If your chimney’s brick are in good shape, repointing might be the best option for you. This option helps repair the appearance, as well as, the structure of your chimney. It also prevents further damage and moisture from entering between the bricks. This is what can ultimately lead to your chimney experiencing major structural damage to the point where it needs rebuilding.

The process of repointing involves grinding out the mortar joints between the brick within by ¼” to ½”. The joints are then filled back in with new mortar and the excess is removed for a smooth and beautiful new look for your chimney!

Chimney Rebuilding

There are some circumstances where a chimney’s repair goes beyond repointing. Rebuilding a chimney is often the result of years of neglect. The chimney can be unsafe to use until it is rebuilt.

There are several types of chimney rebuilding:

• Partial chimney rebuild: This is performed on smaller sections on a larger chimney or a small chimney. It sometimes includes a chimney crown rebuild.
• Roofline up rebuild: This is when a new chimney is built up from the roof flashing. A roof line up rebuild is the best option when pointing won’t sufficiently repair the damage.
• Complete rebuild: A complete rebuild is needed when the entire chimney structure is damaged. Example scenarios that require a complete rebuild includes spawning, leaning, and severe mortar deterioration.

Maintenance Helps Avoid Rebuilding and Repointing

The good news is that you can avoid the need of rebuilding or repointing your chimney by working with professionals. Yearly chimney sweeps and inspections ensure that your chimney is properly performing and its structure isn’t compromised.

Boston’s Best Chimney has served the Boston area for 30 years with state-of-the-art chimney cleaning and masonry services. If you’re unsure if your chimney needs repointing, rebuilding, or some other type of repair, our professional team can guide you in the right direction. Contact us to discuss these services and more.

The post Chimney Rebuilding vs. Re-Pointing: What’s the Difference? appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

A chimney is built using numerous components, ensuring proper function and even beauty. One important piece of the chimney is the crown. The crown is a slab that covers the top of your chimney made from materials ranging from metal to stone or concrete. This is what you should know about chimney crowns and their importance to your chimney.

Chimney Crown Construction

Chimney crowns are quite simple by design. They are a solid surface that sits on top of the chimney and protects the masonry from water damage. Chimney crowns should never be made from brick and mortar because it doesn’t provide proper protection against moisture. Furthermore, chimney crowns can be constructed with a slight pitch to help direct water away from the chimney.

The Purpose of a Chimney Crown

The primary purpose of a chimney crown is to protect your chimney from moisture damage. Moisture can wreak havoc on the structure of your chimney and cause an array of issues. This is one of the first lines of defense against the elements and it’s critical that it stays in good shape throughout the years.

The Consequences of a Cracked Chimney Crown

While maintaining your chimney crown likely isn’t on the top of your priority list, you don’t want to push the condition of this component to the backburner. If a chimney crown becomes cracked or otherwise damaged, it can compromise the structure of your chimney. Over time, moisture begins to eat away at the mortar between the bricks as it seeps through the cracks. The interior of the chimney can also become damaged if the chimney crown is cracked.

The bad news is that once a crack begins on a chimney crown it can grow larger. It’s provoked by the freeze and thaw cycle with our brutal Boston winters. As the crack grows larger, this increases the likelihood that water can make its way inside of the chimney, fireplace, and even stain interior ceilings or walls.

Repairing or replacing the chimney crown is critical to protecting the chimney from extensive damage as well as the inside of your home. Possible solutions include repairing the surface of the chimney crown or completely rebuilding it. A professional chimney service company can help you make the best decision for the health of your chimney and home.

Contact Us for Professional Chimney Sweeping Services and More

Whether you need a new chimney crown or it’s time for your annual chimney inspection, choose us for expert and reliable chimney services in Boston. Call us at 781-893-6611 or contact us online!

The post What is a Chimney Crown? appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

You might think you’ve got plenty of time to worry about your chimney. It looks fine, there’s no smell or water damage evident. In reality, there’s no better time than now to get your chimney inspected! And while you’re at it, mark next year’s calendar too because that chimney inspection should be a regular, annual event. 

Here are more reasons to be proactive about your chimney inspection:

Safety – a lack of maintenance can lead to chimney and house fires. A regularly scheduled chimney inspection will prevent this. In fact, an annual chimney and venting system sweeping and inspection is recommended by the National Fire Protection Association and the Chimney Safety Institute of America. 

Money – Many homes don’t get their chimneys inspected, and they wind up getting them repaired because they didn’t take that time. Being proactive stops this. You will save so much more money on an inspection and sweep than you will when you have to have major repairs done. 

Lack of knowledge – …and that’s okay! It’s normal and happens all the time, but most people move into a home or begin renting one with a chimney and have no idea what condition that chimney’s really in. Don’t let that be you. For instance, how’s your cap? Do you even have one? Do you know what it is? 

Peace of Mind – The masonry of a chimney is made to last forever and hold up like a house, so chimney damage is something that you can’t really see and, the worse it gets, the more expensive it is to repair. If you get things checked out every year, you don’t have to worry about it!

Do you have what it takes to be proactive and protect your wallet and home? Someone proactive is also someone smart enough to give Southern Chimneys a call. We will save you money by doing a great job at the best price. Schedule an inspection with us today and you’ll see why we’re a different kind of chimney services company. 

This post first appeared on https://southernchimneys.com

There are many things that can go wrong with your masonry chimney over the years, and water is your chimney’s number one enemy. No matter how well-your chimney is constructed, time and weather can lead to damage called spalling. Many homes experience spalling, though not all homeowners know what it’s called, how to identify it, or what to do about it. At Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep, we can help!

Spalling Masonry

When mortars crack, flake, and fall away, the bricks can become unstable and even loosen completely. This is called spalling, and it can eventually result in crumbling brick and mortar, which can become a serious hazard if you don’t address it timely. If you notice cracking mortar, gapped masonry, or brick pieces on the roof or yard below, you need to call a certified professional right away to address the proper repairs.

Repairing Spalling Masonry

The only way to properly repair spalling masonry is by carefully removing the affected bricks and mortar. A certified chimney sweep will mix new mortar to match the old mortar in strength, consistency, and color. This step is extremely important because failing to match the mortar exactly will result in a weak chimney. Once the mortar is mixed, the bricks are replaced and the result is a fully restored chimney that shows no evidence of a repair.

When the job is done improperly, it can detract from the look of the chimney and decrease your home’s value. This entire process is called tuckpointing or repointing. Only certified professionals should do it, and most amateurs don’t have the proper skills to do it. When you’re scheduling these important services, it’s important to choose chimney experts who have plenty of experience and knowledge of all types of masonry.

Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep Fixes Masonry

No matter the size of your chimney or the type of stone, we can help repair it. At Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep, we have the experience and the technique to get even the toughest jobs done. We know which materials to use and how so that your chimney will expand and contract as necessary. Do you think your chimney masonry needs some attention? Schedule a chimney inspection with our team so that your system is safe and ready for fall.

In addition to tuckpointing, we also repair crowns, flue liners, and leaks. Our team of expert technicians doesn’t just repair damage; we correct the problem that caused the damage in the first place. In order to prevent such damage before it starts, we also offer waterproofing services for all masonry structures.

Our vapor-permeable water repellent allows the chimney to breathe while keeping water molecules from getting through. This product penetrates deeply into the masonry, protecting it and preventing water leaks year after year. Don’t just repair masonry damage, let us help you prevent it. Call Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep at 617-469-4528 or request an appointment online.

The post What is Tuckpointing, Repointing, and Spalling? appeared first on Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep.

August is a big vacation month for families. It doesn’t always mean taking an airplane to Florida, it may mean a long weekend to a waterpark or even a staycation with get togethers’ with family and friends. As the month goes on, we begin to get the kids ready for school and try to get done with lots of chores around the house. When September hits, who has the time?

That’s why I’m preparing you now for the fall. Let’s get the chimney cleaned and checked now. It doesn’t matter if you have a gas fireplace, wood burning fireplace, or don’t even use the fireplace at all, it needs to be inspected all the same. Here are key reasons to have your chimney cleaned and checked if you use your fireplace or not. Top 3 Outside Reasons:

1. Exterior Chimney – If you use your fireplace or not, weather is still going to do its job on the chimney. Tuckpointing, the chimney repair, will replace missing or failing mortar between the bricks or stones. If the chimney isn’t fixed, then deterioration continues, water will get into the chimney and find its way into your home.  
2. Chimney Crown – Located at the top of the chimney, the chimney crown also gets the harsh weather conditions. Because it’s made from concrete, it runs the risk of forming small hairline cracks, a perfect place for water to enter, freeze, thaw and make its way into your home.
3. Unwanted Guests – No, I’m not talking about you know who…these are birds, squirrels, rats & mice, or even raccoons. Our certified technicians will check your chimney cap, (or if you don’t have a chimney cap) this will keep unwanted guests searching for shelter in nature.  

All this activity, and the
certified technician didn’t even get to the inside fireplace yet.

Top 3 Inside Reasons to clean and
check the fireplace if you use the fireplace or not.

1. Chimney Damper – The chimney damper plays an important role if you use your fireplace or not. If you use your fireplace, keeping it open allows the smoke to exit the home. If you have a gas fireplace, get the smell of gas out of the house. Don’t use it? Then have it inspected so it continues to work and is closed properly.  
2. Firebox – This is where the gas fireplace or wood burning fireplace lives. The structure itself is either constructed of brick or metal. Use it or not, it needs to be cleaned and checked. Bricks and mortar deteriorate…even on the inside. Get rid of the dust, spider webs and other debris that gathers on a regular basis.
3.  Hearth Protector or Grate – If you use your fireplace, gas or wood burning, it’s important that the hearth protector or grate is working properly. Need to keep everyone safe from the fireplace. If you don’t use your fireplace, the grate can be a safety issue. You say, “nah”, but next time you have guests over and they’re sitting by the fireplace, you’ll notice how fingers touch things they probably shouldn’t. It’s best to keep you, your family and guests safe.

Superior Chimney provides a 14-point inspection report with supporting pictures. Listed are only 6 of the 14. The picture above gives you everything that our certified service technicians perform. By getting it done now while you’re at home will save you the stress and worry of getting it done when life gets hectic once again.

Contact us today to get a jump start on your chimney and fireplace inspection.

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

If you’re currently cleaning your house and taking stock of what needs repairs, be sure to remember there’s a giant, important part of your home that you probably haven’t even thought to clean. 

It’s your chimney!

Oh yeah…your chimney. Boost your chimney and fireplace performance by getting yours inspected now!

Four reasons now’s the time!

1. Keep your home smelling fresh.
   Ever heard of creosote? It’s the buildup that comes from wood fires and turns into dark, cruddy deposits in your chimney. Creosote sitting there in your chimney and it’s going to create a terrible odor that will spread all throughout your house. 
2. Make sure your home’s safe…
   …from critters. Chimneys are also common entry points for a variety of unwanted pests, ranging from squirrels to birds. A properly installed and inspected chimney cap, pan, or shroud will prevent these pesky critters from entering your property and causing problems. 
3. Don’t let the water in.
   All of that rainy weather can cause water damage from the buildup of moisture in your chimney. In fact, with the record rainfall we had over the winter, water might already be puddling up in there. Your chimney can collect debris and water just like your gutters do. Make sure they’re as clean as can be before things get even worse. 
4. Get ahead of things.
   Be prepared for upcoming service needs and long-term maintenance. If you get your chimney inspected now and find that there’s damage that needs repairing by fall/winter, you now have a little more time to act. Prevent chronic issues and costly repairs by spotting and fixing problems early.

Feel as fresh, clean, and smart as possible. Give Southern Chimneys a call today. Our technicians will complete an inside and out 18-point inspection and complete a consultation to address and discuss any issues or concerns. 

 

 

 

This post first appeared on https://southernchimneys.com

In our area of Boston, North Shore, and Portland, there is a lot of history. Our communities are filled with historical buildings and homes. If you’re a homeowner in the area, you may have a historical home and it’s likely that you also have an old chimney. If you have just acquired your home you may not know much about it! At Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep, we get a lot of calls about historic chimneys, and they get a bad rap. In fact, there are a lot of interesting features to old chimneys that many just don’t understand. Here are our favorites:

Ash Pits

You may be surprised to find a trap door at the back of the firebox floor. This is not a secret escape or treasure trove, but a pit where past homeowners would shovel and scrape ashes. Many present-day homeowners still utilize this ash pit, and some may even have an easy-access clean-out door. These pits are usually constructed with the home’s foundation and are just as durable, When you use the ash pit, you can have it emptied periodically by your trusted chimney professional and never have to bother with bucketloads and storage of ashes.

Multiple Stacks

In the past, the number of chimneys, or “stacks” was an indication of how many bedrooms were in the home. The more stacks, the more prestigious the home. Today, you may not want to use all of these fireplaces. In fact, you can update them all to a more efficient option when you plan with a professional. Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep can swap your old wood-burning fireplace with a new gas-fueled insert that will neither damage the existing hearth and chimney nor detract from the historical aspects of your home. Our inserts are top-of-the-line units that burn gas or wood, depending on our customer needs. When installed by a professional, you can bet it will add style and beauty to one or more old chimneys.

Chimney Pots

Many historic chimneys are topped with chimney pots. Though, not in use as much today, these chimney pots extend the height of the flue and narrow the stack, creating a better draft upward. These tops date back to the Tudor Dynasty in Great Britain and have been used on every continent and are designed for beauty and function. In addition to helping the chimney work better, it also protects the flue against water damage.

Do you have a historic chimney that needs a little TLC? We can help. At Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep we specialize in historic chimneys, and we love to help homeowners find the love and beauty in these old systems.

When you depend on us for your comprehensive chimney care, we will help to bring your chimney system up to code, work to make it as safe and efficient as possible, and do so at a price affordable to our valued customers.

Call Billy Sweet Chimney at 617-469-4528 and schedule your chimney assessment and maintenance today.

The post Learn More About Your Old Chimney appeared first on Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep.

Whether you were inspired by HGTV or you simply wanted a fresh look for your home, you may have painted your brick chimney at one point or another. While painting your chimney is a decorative upgrade to bring new personality to your curb appeal, the truth is that it can backfire on you down the road.

Bricks Need to Breathe

When you cover your chimney with a coat of paint, you are sealing up the pores of the brick. While this doesn’t seem like a big deal, the problem comes down to moisture. Moisture becomes trapped inside the bricks because the paint is blocking it from escaping. This ultimately creates moisture buildup.

Keep in mind that brick sealant can have the same effect. You’ll need a sealant that protects the brick but still allows moisture to escape. Otherwise, you will have the same issue as painting your chimney.

The Dangers of Trapped Moisture

When moisture gets trapped from painting your chimney, one of the first elements it can affect is the mortar. Eventually, the mortar will break down and the structural integrity of the chimney will suffer. If this damage goes undetected, even further damage can arise or the chimney may eventually begin to crumble.

Not only does decaying mortar pose a threat to the chimney’s structure, but moisture can make its way inside your home. When you don’t have enough mortar on your chimney, it becomes easy for water to enter. Interior water damage can manifest in problems such as peeling of the walls, stains on the walls and ceilings, and even mold. You will likely spend a significant amount of money repairing these issues.

More Problems During Freezing Weather

If moisture problems aren’t enough during the spring and summer, more issues will arise during the winter. Trapped moisture will contribute to the freeze and thaw cycle as the chimney expands and contracts. This can result in spalling, which is where pieces of brick fall from the chimney. You might also discover a rusty firebox or a cracked chimney crown.

Should You Paint Your Chimney?

Before you pick up a paintbrush, it’s wise to contact a chimney contractor for professional advice. Allow us to inspect your chimney and provide advice on making it (and perform) its best!

The post The Repercussions of Painting Your Chimney appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

No matter who installs or provides maintenance to your chimney, water erosion is always going to be your WORST enemy. Wisconsin winters can hide shards of ice in our rooftops that create long-lasting water damage effects.

Additionally, harsh rains and unmanaged chimneys cause natural erosion that is simply unavoidable. In a previous blog, we identify some of the most dangerous types of chimney damage and how to prevent it from costing you in repairs.

Of course, water is the main component for unnoticeable damage to a chimney. We have developed our way of finding and fixing all types of chimney damage before it is too late.

The question becomes:

“As a homeowner, what are a few common signs your chimney has suffered water damage?”

Search no further—at Quality Fireplace and Chimney Services we want to provide the answers that we think most homeowners need to know before they take the leap.

Dive into this short read so you can be aware and learn to identify problematic water damage.

Damaged Flue Ducts

First of all, we know the intrusive nature of water in a home. It can cause:

• Molding and rotting
• Leaky roofing
• Dank smells
• Warped floors
• etc.

Throughout the years, we have been told or have noticed that the most forgotten part of the home is often the chimney. This is because the chimney looks like a strong part of your home’s core. While this may seem true, the interior of the chimney (called the flue) is quite fragile.

Flues, or ducts, are generally made of clay or metal. Both of those materials are susceptible to water damage without proper care. You would never be able to see the damage until it shows itself as something uglier.

We recommend a yearly inspection or “Chimnoscopy” to ensure that the harsh weather conditions didn’t make their way into your chimney.

Cracked Masonry

Developing cracks in a chimney is a common occurrence. As aforementioned, most chimney risks are to be expected but often forgotten.

Luckily, that is not the case for cracked masonry —which is usually the MOST expensive repairs to incur. We can easily see cracks in the chimney masonry which should be the first place you look if you have recently developed a leak.

The repairs on a masonry project can vary depending on the time it takes to become noticed. One little crack can turn into a crumbling decay if not appropriately maintained.

Unknown Leaks

There is no surprise to the numerous home projects that arise after purchasing a home. But does that mean you can DIY your way through unknowable leaks?

Some leaks don’t have to originate from the chimney to grow toward the chimney. Water is a finicky thing when it comes to building materials…and when you combine that with freezing temperatures?! It is NOT FUN.

There is always a fix for any sized project. In the case of unknown leakage… well, you are usually just going to have to ride it out until the leak is easy to identify. Again, yearly inspections can help you find and eliminate problem areas before they become a total restoration.

Firebox Condensation

If you have lived through a Wisconsin summer you know that it can be HOT. This dramatic change in heat difference can help you spot water damage in a chimney. The brick and mortar will show signs of “Sweating” which can impact the brickwork throughout the home.

Condensation doesn’t always mean you have chimney damage but it is worth taking a look. More times than not – we find that it is simply just the brick sweating out a few days worth of moisture. Yet, when it becomes a routine—you have likely have encountered a structure leak.

Warped or Broken Wooden Siding

Waterproofing on wooden siding is usually temporary and starts to deteriorate after years of rain and snow. If you notice any warpage on your shingles or wood siding you should get an inspection immediately. Warping generally will not occur until the warmer months since the moisture damage will start to rot.

Broken or Missing Chimney Cover

It sounds so simple, yet we see so many chimneys that have defective chimney covers or NOT HAVE ONE AT ALL!

No matter if your a “cup is half full” or “cup half empty” kind of person… we guarantee that all of the water that hits your chimney without a cover is going inside. Having a chimney without a cover installed isn’t as common nowadays, but we still occasionally meet customers who just didn’t have any idea they needed it!

Have we convinced you to get an inspection yet? If not, read our other article about the many benefits that come from good fireplace cleaning.

Contact us today and get your annual inspection booked so you can have peace of mind. Quality Fireplace & Chimney Service Professionals are CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps and operate using industry best practices! Don’t forget to refer a person to Quality Fireplace and when they complete service, we’ll send you a check for $25.00!

The post 6 WAYS WATER CAN CAUSE CRUCIAL DAMAGE TO YOUR CHIMNEY OR FIREPLACE appeared first on Quality Fireplace and Chimney Services.

Chimney problems can occur all year long. Just because it’s
summer, and you’re not using the chimney doesn’t mean all is well.

On Saturday, we went to some friend’s house for a barbeque.
I must say it was wonderful, as everyone brought some great dishes. It’s a single-story
home with a very well attended backyard. It was so relaxing to sit outside
enjoying the company of friends.

After a while, I kept hearing a buzzing sound. (Yes, I did
consider the tasty drinks as the source, but others heard it too.) We were
looking around trying to figure out where the buzzing sound was coming from.
Since we were on the back patio, I noticed that the chimney was close by. As I
got closer, I noticed the noise getting louder. I went into their garage,
pulled out the ladder and climbed up to get closer to the chimney. The buzzing sounds.
A bee’s nest built very nicely in the bricks and inside the chimney.

Here are the top 3 chimney problems to watch for during the summer months:

1. Unpleasant smells
   or odors coming from the chimney. Read
   the last post. We went into detail on the causes of fireplace odor smells.
2. Unwanted critters such as animals, bees, wasps,
   birds along with their ‘left behinds’ or if they passed away in your chimney.
3. Damage to the chimney flashing or chimney
   crown from high winds and heavy storms.

Not tending to these top 3 chimney problems in the summer can lead to more serious problems if left unattended. Call Superior Chimney to take care of any problems you heard, smelled or seen.  877-244-6349

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