Chimney deterioration is a diagnosis that no homeowner wants to hear. It normally means extensive repairs are necessary for safe function.

The lifespan of a chimney depends on the type, and how often it is used. It can be said that a chimney starts to deteriorate from the first time it will be used. Over time, you are going to use it more often, and if you maintain it well, it is going to affect the rate of deterioration. Regular chimney repair will lengthen the chimney’s life, and neglecting to do that leads to more rapid breakdown.

If you want to know the common causes of why chimneys deteriorate, read this article until the end.

Chimney is Leaking

You will not always see actual damage, but you will have a couple of clues. Depending on where the leak is, you might detect water spots on adjoining walls or ceilings. You could smell mildew or other odors after a rain, and check the condensation inside the firebox or even the dripping water sound.

The leakage can be continuous, at any point on your chimney route. It might involve shingles or roof damage, chimney flashing or mortar cracks, or masonry. Fixes might involve laying new flashing or re-shingling, or chimney cap replacement, or masonry damage.

Movement

Slight movement foundation causes different degrees of damage. strong winds can cause chimneys to shift.

Movement damage is caused by poor chimney footing in the construction. The footing should be made using concrete or stone that has enough depth for a strong foundation that will last for decades. You should take advantage of chimney masonry repair and learn if the foundation of the chimney is as sturdy as it needs to be.

Creosote and Flue Obstruction Buildup

Creosote buildup is the reason why you want to try to build small fires. They have less smoke and particulate emissions, which means there is less mess and hassle with the crud that is forming on your flue and fireplace interior walls and chimney.

Flue creosote can clog the chimney, which leads to exposure to carbon monoxide. The sooty collection can cause fires where you do not want them, and can even lead to releasing toxic fumes.

Faulty Construction

The chimney is not different from weather damage, and small cracks in the masonry allow water to seep in. This does not cause harm, but when the water inside thaws and freezes with atmospheric cycles, it leads to an expansion and contraction within your masonry. Over time, the inside of your chimney is going to deteriorate until it has fallen apart. This type of damage is hard to spot, and you can easily leave it alone for a while until it becomes a huge problem. In case you suspect that the chimney already suffered from water intrusion, you need to act right away, and ask a chimney expert to assess it.

Weather Damage

Chimneys can withstand different kinds of weather, but over time, it is going to take a toll, especially with poor maintenance. Heavy and constant winds can cause chimney damage. When moisture becomes trapped in the mortar, and freezer during winter, it can cause spalling and cracks. If you ignore it, the repairs will become expensive. Driving rain gets into a chimney, and it causes metal components to rust.

These factors should affect your chimney early if you maintain it regularly. You can consider a video inspection of the interior. You are going to spend a little more, but the technician can have a closer look.

You can contact chimney relining Ellicott City anytime you want to have your chimney cleaned.

 

The post The Common Causes of Chimney Deterioration first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

This post first appeared on https://www.firstclasschimneyservices.com

Every chimney should have a cap. Why? Because it prevents animals, debris, water, and leaves from getting in the chimney and causing problems. Chimney caps also prevent embers from escaping the chimney, landing on the roof, and possibly starting a fire.
If your chimney doesn’t have a cap, let’s look at what you should consider when choosing one.

Materials

Chimney caps are typically made from three materials, each having its own benefits.

Galvanized Steel

Most people opt for caps made from galvanized steel because they’re inexpensive and do the job just fine. However, galvanized caps aren’t as durable as the other materials, so you’ll have to repair or replace them more frequently.

Stainless Steel

Moving up, stainless steel caps are another option. While slightly pricier than galvanized steel, stainless is more durable, and some prefer the look.

Copper

Besides a custom option, copper is the most expensive cap you can get. Copper is highly durable and long-lasting, and can increase your home’s curbside appeal with its visual flair. When picking a material, consider the climate you live in. If you live in an area that receives a lot of precipitation and freezing temperatures, it’s a better investment to opt for a durable material that can withstand a beating.

Type of Flue

Another thing to consider is what kind of flue you have. For example, single flues require a different-sized cap than double flues.

Custom Options

Many homeowners have unorthodox chimney and flue sizes, which means they need a custom cap designed specifically for their chimneys. If you’re unfamiliar with chimneys or flues, call your local chimney professional to inspect and measure your equipment to determine the right-sized cap. Chimney caps come in various sizes, including multi-flue, single-flue, and top-mount.

Mesh Size

Choosing the right mesh size for your chimney cap is important, as it affects whether embers can exit.
The standard mesh size is ¾ inch, allowing enough air to flow freely while keeping embers inside. If you live in an area that receives a lot of snow and ice, you should schedule regular chimney inspections from a trained professional to ensure the mesh isn’t damaged. A larger mesh may be necessary if your fireplace produces large amounts of smoke.

Draft

It’s crucial that your chimney cap be correctly sized, so it doesn’t impede the draft. An ill-fitting cap can restrict the airflow necessary for the fireplace or stove to burn efficiently, expel toxic gases, and prevent back puffing.

Warranty

Most chimney caps come with a warranty, but it’s always wise to check before making a purchase, especially if you live in a climate that could cause it to wear out more quickly. As stated, chimney caps are necessary for protection against animals and debris, embers, and moisture damage.

The average cost to install a cap is approximately $300, making it a wise investment to protect your chimney against damage that could cost thousands to repair.

Call Fluesbrothers Chimney & Fireplace

If you want help choosing the right chimney cap or need chimney sweeping or repairs done by certified professionals, call Fluesbrothers Chimney & Fireplace in Kansas City at 913-236-7141 today to book an appointment.

The post How to Choose the Right Chimney Cap appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.

In Illinois, a chimney cap is an essential part of every chimney. You may notice that most chimneys have a chimney cap. A chimney cap is a small, metal cap located directly on top of the exit hole, often to a point or a flat top and a short, sealed, mesh gate attached protecting the hole of the chimney. You might wonder: is it necessary? Why install this little cap? Can a chimney still function properly without a chimney cap? Here are the top 4 reasons to install a  chimney cap with Superior Chimney experts today.

1. Prevent moisture/water from entering your home: without a chimney cap, a chimney is an open hole into a house. Every chimney needs a cap for the same reason every home needs a roof!  Without protection, water will surely enter your chimney. Any moisture inside your chimney will cause damage. A chimney is made of porous material, such as mortar and brick. These materials store water naturally. The more water that settles inside your chimney, the more deterioration and damage will occur. That means more money spent on repairs. Moisture in a chimney may also cause mold and mildew to grow inside it. Chicago experiences all 4 seasons, and is located by the largest lakes in America. High humidity levels due to Lake Michigan will cause the quick deterioration of the chimney. A chimney cap is essential, especially in the Chicago area, to prevent your chimney’s speedy deterioration.
2. Animal Nesting: Birds, racoons, rats, bats, squirrels and other wild animals love small, warm spaces to live in. All these animals are common in Chicago. It’s possible that these small animals will crawl or fall through the chimney and into your home! Sticks, grasses and branches often used to make nests are extremely flammable. If a bird nests inside the chimney without knowledge, it’s likely the next time you light your fireplace, the nesting materials will also ignite, causing a house fire.
3. Prevents Fires: Watching the pop of the firewood safely inside the fireplace while lit may seem like a cozy heaven. All it takes is one small spark or ember that goes up the chimney to ignite a fire on your rooftop. Some natural debris on the roof or the roof itself may catch fire. A chimney cap stops the hot sparks from escaping and lighting debris on fire.
4. Stops Drafts: Chimneys not only remove smoke up and away from the fireplace, but also allows air into your home. When the wind blows downwards into your home, the air flow creates a draft. The draft causes your home to become colder, especially in the fall and wintertime. Smoke may also be pushed back down into your home if you have the fireplace lit. A chimney cap breaks the wind and stops a downdraft from forming, keeping your home warm and safe.

Summary

If you’re located in Illinois, your chimney is exposed to all 4 seasons. Year round, it’s exposed to rain, snow, ice, wind and humidity. It’s essential to have a chimney cap to prevent fires, animal nests and water from causing serious damage to your home. The investment in a chimney cap will help save money, too. Install your chimney cap today with the certified experts at Superior Chimney, by calling 877-244-6349.

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

There are two things that go hand-in-hand: owning an active fireplace and the need for an annual inspection. Most homeowners schedule these between the conclusion of the colder months and the end of summer. However, there’s an extra step that might make a big difference in the longevity of your chimney, a video scan. Here are some benefits of a fireplace chimney scan and why you may want to request one for your next inspection.

Why you need a basic chimney inspection

There are many reasons to schedule an annual chimney inspection. Most of those come down to safety. A chimney inspection can identify problems with your chimney, such as spalling or cracked bricks, a missing chimney cap, or an excessive build-up of creosote within your flue.

A chimney inspection is a proactive method of ensuring that it’s safe to operate your fireplace. However, even if you have an unused chimney, such as in a house that used to use a wood-burning stove, it’s a good idea to have it inspected from time to time. Why, exactly? After all, it’s not being used so why should a technician look at it?

That’s because chimney materials break down over time. Masonry is porous, clay tiles can crack, and caps can rust. Those all lead to the potential of water damage to your home.

What is a Level 2 chimney inspection?

That is, of course, the role of a basic chimney inspection. The next step up from that is called a Level 2 inspection, and it brings with it a more in-depth review and analysis of your chimney system. Indeed, a Level 2 inspection is required in a few situations, namely if you plan to sell your home. The primary tool that your Northeastern Chimney technician will use during a Level 2 inspection is a video scan.

The benefits of a chimney scan

A Level 2 inspection can uncover problematic weak points. Some of the benefits of a fireplace chimney scan include:

• Identifying leaks or places where water is pooling;
• Finding internal damage, such as missing clay flue tiles deep in your chimney;
• Locating damage, including internal spalling bricks, deteriorated masonry, or evidence of voids within your flue;
• And seeing debris or obstructions, indicative of some kind of gap in the preventive protection components of your system.

Beyond that, a chimney scan helps to ensure your chimney is safe to operate while also providing adequate documentation for your insurance company in case you were to have an incident.

Without a Level 2 scan, the insurance adjustor may deny the claim. Some localities require that a home with an active fireplace system must have a Level 2 inspection before it can be bought or sold. A chimney video scan will provide the necessary reassurance to the buyer that the home they’re purchasing is safe.

From scans to sweeps, our team can help!

Our team is fully equipped to handle all types of chimney sweeps and maintenance tasks, from a basic Level 1 inspection to video scans during Level 2 inspections. We’re CSIA-certified and happy to help with all of your needs. Would you like to learn more about our services? Contact Northeastern Chimney, LLC at 860-233-5770 or book your appointment via our short online form.

The post The Benefits of a Video Scan Chimney Inspection appeared first on .

This post first appeared on https://www.mychimney.com

A chimney rebuild may be necessary after a long winter of fluctuating weather conditions and humidity. With the weather Chicago has been having this winter, it wouldn’t be a surprise if there are some spotted damages to your chimney. When a chimney’s repairs are beyond tuckpointing, it may be subject to a partial or full chimney rebuild. This is one of Superior Chimneys many areas of expertise. Our highly experienced technicians will inspect the condition of the chimney and provide a complete report with supporting pictures. It’s always good to see ‘up close’ areas of the home that you normally can’t get to.  This is the perfect time to schedule your chimney inspection which includes an evaluation of the exterior chimney.

Types of Chimney Rebuilds

1. Chimney rebuild (from weather): While on a walk or on a drive, have you noticed a chimney appearing rather degraded, with its bricks rounded off at the corners and mortar sunken in? Maybe a brick face or two are missing, and there are cracks in the side of the chimney. The chimney may look more rounded than it does square. In old European cities, such as Prague, you will often see this type of deterioration due to years of lack of care and attention for the chimney. Do you see any of these around your neighborhood?

One type of chimney deterioration is called spalling, or when the water from rain, ice, or snow seeps in between the bricks and freezes, then melts, and then freezes once again. Over time, spalling causes the brick to pop, peel or flake. Then, it falls apart, causing leaks in your home and inside the chimney. This often leads to rusting of the interior metal parts of the chimney. This type of chimney deterioration is in need of a rebuild. A chimney rebuild is a tear down of the outer layer of the chimney. Most parts of the compromised chimney area are removed and replaced. There is also new brick and mortar. This severe damage is caused by neglecting your chimney’s yearly inspection and maintenance.

2. Chimney rebuild (other causes): If you notice your chimney is leaning, cracking, or tilting, your chimney may need a chimney rebuild. Additionally, if your chimney doesn’t create enough draft, you may need to rebuild a taller chimney.
3. Partial chimney rebuild: If you notice minor damages on a large chimney, such as minor spalling, deterioration or the need for a new chimney crown, a partial chimney rebuild is needed. Noticing even the smallest of cracks in the chimney crown will require immediate repairs to stop further, more serious damage. Additionally, if you have a small chimney which needs repairs from cracking or deterioration, you also may need a partial chimney rebuild. Further evaluation is necessary.

Last notes

Spring is the perfect time to get on the schedule for a chimney rebuild or chimney repairs with Superior Chimney. Our technicians are highly skilled and make the process look smooth and easy. Make no mistake, it’s a perfected skill and those who try to do it themselves, look exactly like that. Take care of your home with quality workmanship and materials from Superior Chimney. Contact us today at 877-244-6349

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

Have you ever woken up in the morning only to find a puddle on your floor and a leaky skylight?

It’s the worst, right? But don’t worry — you’re not alone.

Skylights can be a real blessing, bringing natural light and a view of the sky into your home, but when they start to leak, it can be a real headache. It’s not only a huge bother, but it can also cause damage to your home if left unfixed.

But don’t fret! In this article, we’ll dive into why skylights leak and give you some practical tips on how to fix them.

Is your skylight leaking only during the rainy season?

If you’re only experiencing leaks during the rainy season, there’s likely a problem with the installation, the materials used to make your skylight, or the surrounding area. Let’s look at some of the most common causes of skylight leaks during the rainy season.

Reason 1: Broken or cracked skylight

One of the most obvious causes of skylight leaks during the rainy season is a broken or cracked skylight. If your skylight is made of glass, it can be susceptible to cracks or breaks from falling debris, hail, or other impacts.

How to fix it?

If you notice any cracks or breaks in your skylight, it’s essential to repair or replace it as soon as possible to prevent leaks. You’ll need to contact a professional to assess the damage, replace the entire skylight if necessary, and prevent such damages in the future.

Reason 2: Worn or damaged weather seals

Weather seals around the skylight are crucial to keep the water and moisture out. But, over time, the weather seals around your skylight can crack, become brittle, or otherwise deteriorate, allowing water to seep into your home. This can be due to extreme temperature changes, exposure to the elements, or simply aging.

How to fix it?

If you notice any cracks or damage to the sealant around your skylight, it’s time to repair or replace it. You can easily notice the brittle sealant and replace them within a few minutes.

Reason 3: Degraded flashing

Flashing is a metal sheet installed around your skylight’s base to prevent water from seeping in. Over time, flashing can rust and become degraded, allowing water to leak into your home. This can be due to exposure to the elements, improper installation, or simply aging.

How to fix it?

If there isn’t too much damage to the flashing, you can seal the area with caulking. nut but if the flashing has rusted beyond repair, then you may need to replace the entire skylight.

Reason 4: Poor roof design

A poor roof design can also cause skylight leaks during the rainy season. If your roof isn’t designed to direct water away from your skylight, water can pool around the skylight and cause leaks. Additionally, if your roof has any low spots or valleys, water can collect in these areas and cause leaks.

How to fix it?

When your skylight is often leaking, or even your sealant gets worn out sooner than it should, it’s a good idea to have your roof inspected to ensure it’s properly designed and functioning as it should.

Reason 5: Ineffective drainage

Lastly, poor drainage around your skylight can also cause leaks during the rainy season.

If water isn’t properly directed away from your skylight, it can pool around the base, causing water to seep in. This can be due to incorrect installation, clogged drainage systems, or other factors.

How to fix it?

First, check if the drainage or gutters are clogged with leaves, debris, or other materials. This means the water can overflow and find its way into your home through your skylight.

To prevent this from happening, make sure that your skylight is installed on a slope or that a drainage system is in place to direct water away from the skylight. Additionally, it’s important to periodically check your drainage system and clear the gutter of any blockages.

Is your skylight leaking even when it isn’t the rainy season?

If your skylight leaks even when it isn’t raining, the problem could be condensation.

Condensation occurs when too much humidity inside your home and insufficient ventilation to dissipate the moisture. This excess moisture can collect on your skylight, causing water to leak. To prevent condensation, make sure your home is properly ventilated, and air circulates your skylight. You can also consider installing dehumidifiers to reduce humidity levels inside your home.

Additionally, if you have a double-paned skylight, the seals around the edges of the skylight can become worn over time, causing condensation between the panes. In this case, the only solution is to replace the skylight with a new one.

It’s vital to address skylight condensation as soon as possible to prevent mold and mildew growth and maintain your skylight’s structural integrity. A little preventative maintenance can go a long way in preventing leaks and ensuring your skylight continues functioning properly for years to come.

Want to get your leaky skylight checked out? Contact our team at Preserve Roofing at 678-956-5152 to get down to the bottom of the issue and fix it immediately. From fixing issues with your clogged gutters to replacing the skylight with a better quality one, we can address all of your roofing issues.

The post Are Your Skylights Leaking? first appeared on Southern Chimneys.

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

Most people who own a wood burning fireplace know the basics of how it works, but not the nitty-gritty details. However, those details can make your fireplace a joy or pain to use. In this post, we look at chimney venting, what it is, the types, and why it’s essential to fireplace efficiency and comfort.

What is Chimney Venting?

Chimney venting is when the hot gases and byproducts from combustion heating equipment, such as a fireplace or furnace, flow up the chimney and out of the house. Chimney Venting is essential to the combustion process by allowing gases to exit the house as fresh air is drawn in.

Types of Venting

There are three main kinds of venting systems: natural draft, forced draft, and balanced draft. Let’s look at each one in detail.

Natural Draft

Natural drafting is the most common chimney venting system because it’s simple, reliable, and doesn’t require any additional energy or machinery besides the equipment it’s venting. Natural drafting works by the fundamental principle that hot air rises. The fire or combustion draws cool air from the room and the hot air rises and out of the chimney in a cycle.

Forced Draft

Forced draft venting systems use a fan or blower to push air up the flue. Forced draft systems are ideal for homes that struggle to create a natural draft because they’re too well insulated, the chimney is too short, or it is obstructed. Moreover, some heating systems like boilers or furnaces require forced draft venting to operate efficiently.

Balanced Draft

A balanced draft system uses the best of both forced and natural drafting to regulate the flow and ensure the pressure in the flue is consistent for efficient combustion.

Why Chimney Venting is Important

As mentioned, you may never think about chimney venting, but here’s why it’s essential to your safety and your heating system’s efficiency.
Proper chimney venting keeps the toxic gasses flowing out of the house and the temperatures in the chimney at a reasonable level. Poor venting can lead to carbon monoxide buildup in the home, a smoky fire that’s difficult to keep lit, and a possible chimney fire.
Proper venting and drafting also keep your fireplace or heating system running more efficiently, saving you money on fuel costs or energy expenses.

Common Chimney Venting Problems

Now that you know why chimney venting or drafting is important, it’s good to know what can go wrong and impede the process. Unfortunately, many chimneys have poor drafting for these reasons.

– Broken or damaged damper
– Incorrect chimney height
– The flue is blocked by debris
– The chimney is structurally damaged
– Animal nests in the flue
– Creosote buildup
– Negative pressure caused by insulation and competition with other fans or vents in the house

How to Maintain Proper Chimney Venting

You want to get the most out of your fireplace or heating system, so it’s crucial to maintain a healthy draft, and here’s how to do it.

Regular Cleaning

It can’t be stressed enough how vital regular chimney cleaning by a trained professional is. Over time, creosote will build up in your chimney, which restricts airflow, creates drafting issues, and is a fire hazard.

Use Proper Fuel

Using the proper fuel for your equipment ensures the combustion process is as efficient as possible. For example, if you use a wood-burning fireplace, you must only burn seasoned firewood. Firewood with a high moisture content doesn’t burn well and produces more smoke, leading to more creosote buildup.

Inspection & Maintenance

Besides regular cleaning, it’s necessary to hire a professional chimney service company to inspect your chimney and heating equipment at least once a year. Your chimney Sweep can also perform maintenance to ensure everything is running correctly.  and repair minor issues before they escalate.

Call the Fluesbrothers

If your chimney and fireplace aren’t drafting correctly, or you experience any other problem, call the expert technicians at Fluesbrothers Chimney and Fireplace. We’re the trusted local chimney service company in Kansas City because we’re family owned and operated.

Our technicians are certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America and the National Fireplace Institute, so you can have peace of mind in their work.

Call today at  913-236-7141 or reach us online.

The post What You Need to Know About Chimney Venting appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.

A filthy chimney is dangerous to any home, and to the people in your home. Are you aware of the last time that the chimney was inspected and cleaned by professionals? Maybe you live in a home that had been in the family for many years, or you moved into a new home thinking the chimney has no issues.

Owners or homeowners of rental properties could assume that there are no dangers or risks linked to the delaying of the inspection and cleaning. The truth is there are a lot of health issues that can come from a dirty chimney. Delaying the chimney inspection poses a big health risk to your health or anyone else who lives in your home.

Prevents a Chimney Fire

More than 1 of 4 fires in residential houses are because of creosote buildup because of the failure to clean the chimney and wood-burning fireplace. It is the number 1 cause of house fires, based on the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). It is not surprising that chimney fires normally happen between December and February. Burning ember or intense heat in your fireplace ignites flammable creosote in the chimney that spreads to combustible materials in your house. A chimney and fireplace inspection is the best way to prevent a chimney fire.

Skin and Eye Irritation Caused by Obstructed or Dirty Chimney

Irritation to the skin and eyes may happen because of different factors linked to a filthy or obstructed chimney. Soot comes from incomplete burning or inorganic materials. The brown or black powder that is left irritates the skin and eyes. People can ingest or inhale soot. It can also get absorbed into the skin.

Avoids Creosote Health Damages

Creosote is unhealthy. The chimney’s flue lining filled with creosote can flake off, fall inside the box, or even generate dust into your home. A number of health issues, which includes eye and skin irritation, organ damage, and respiratory issues if it is eaten, can be caused by creosote dust.

Ensures that Toxic Gases Do Not Leak Inside Your Home

Aside from checking creosote buildup, a fireplace and chimney inspection is important for making sure toxic gases, which include carbon monoxide, do not leak inside your home. Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, and tasteless. It can be deadly for people who do not recognize carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms, like nausea, headache, confusion, and vomiting.

There are different ways dangerous fumes can leak into your home through your fireplace and chimney. For instance, twigs, leaves, animal nests, and other debris obstructs the flue vent. When the grass cannot be expelled from your chimney, a dangerous backdraft can happen, that forces fumes and smoke into the living space through your fireplace. Flue liner cracks, excessive creosote, and masonry damage also increase the risk of carbon monoxide exposure.

Other Related Respiratory Issues

Failure to inspect and clean the chimney annually might lead to serious respiratory problems. Soot buildup on the chimney liners’ interior walls, creosote exposure, and carbon monoxide poisoning directly relates to a blocked, dirty, or unsafe chimney contributing to several respiratory issues.

The smoke, unburned or partially burned wood particles, gases, as well as other substances can add to respiratory disorders or distress. These issues can potentially cause cancer. The result of the study in 2016 has added esophageal cancer is among the prevalent cancers that are normally caused by soot exposure. There are so many benefits that chimney sweep and inspection can give you.

You should contact chimney contractors Ellicott City anytime you need them to check your chimney.

The post How a Chimney Sweep Improves Your Health first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

This post first appeared on https://www.firstclasschimneyservices.com

While your chimney may appear to be a solid, seamless structure, it is actually comprised of several vital components. These components are designed to safely evacuate smoke and pollutants from your home so that you can enjoy your wood or gas-burning fireplace, stove, or other attached heating appliance safely. One of those essential components is a chimney cricket. In this article, we will dive into more detail to explain what a chimney cricket is and why it is important.

So, what is a chimney cricket?

Well, it’s not one of those chirping critters keeping you awake at night. Sometimes referred to as a roof cricket or saddle, a chimney cricket is a triangular structure installed with a chimney flashing to direct water into the roof gutter. If your chimney has one, the cricket is typically made with metal, aluminum, or other water-resistant material.

Why are they important?

The cricket’s ridge and valleys help ensure water drains off the roof when it rains. So, suppose you have a flat area surrounding the chimney flashing (where the stack peaks above the top). In that case, rainwater can pool around the flashing, accelerating its deterioration and damaging the surrounding masonry. When water seeps through the tiny cracks in the flashing, it can cause widespread damage to the internal masonry walls, flue liner, and other components. Moisture intrusion can also rust out the damper and smoke shelf, requiring replacement. A minor investment in a cricket can save thousands of dollars in chimney repairs, replacements, and rebuilding costs.

Is a chimney cricket required?

Not every chimney will need a cricket or saddle. However, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Rule 211, the standards and codes certified chimney professionals follow highly recommend installing a cricket for chimneys if the width exceeds 30 inches.

Preventing Water Damage

Even if your chimney doesn’t require a cricket, it may still be a wise investment. That’s because a chimney cricket can do much more than keep soaking downpours at bay. During the winter months, it is not unusual to see snow accumulation on many rooftops in West Hartford, Glastonbury, and surrounding towns.

An ice dam can form when snow or moisture around the flashing freeze. An inch of that fluffy stuff can add up to 400 pounds on the chimney flashing and roof. And three inches of snow weigh nearly half a ton. That weight can cause considerable damage to your chimney, roof, and home. Additionally, the continuous freezing and thawing that occurs in Central Connecticut winters damage masonry, causing the mortar to decay and bricks to crack, crumble, and spall. Installing a cricket can help protect your chimney from water and ice damage.

Central Connecticut Chimney Inspection & Cleaning

Northeastern Chimney is Greater Hartford and Central Connecticut’s premier provider for chimney inspections, cleaning, repairs, and installations, including crickets. Call (860) 233-5770 or contact us online to consult with a Certified Chimney Sweep®.

The post What Is A Chimney Cricket And Why Are They Important? appeared first on .

This post first appeared on https://www.mychimney.com

The typical chimney takes a lot of abuse from constant weather exposure. Without regular maintenance, it’s only a matter of time before they wear out. Chimney wear and tear isn’t just unsightly; it can compromise its performance and put your family and home at risk. This post examines what causes chimney deterioration, how dangerous it is, and how to prevent it.

What Causes Chimney Crumbling?

If you have a masonry chimney, staying on top of annual maintenance and inspections is essential because the damage that leads to crumbling worsens over time and becomes more expensive to fix. Here are the most common causes of chimney deterioration.

Water

Water is a chimney’s worst enemy, especially for people living in areas with heavy rain and snow. Masonry materials like brick and mortar absorb water, which freezes, causing tiny cracks.

Over time, those cracks grow more significant, leading to spalling bricks and loose mortar joints.

Brick Spalling

When the chimney’s bricks’ surface breaks off, it’s called spalling. Spalling typically results from water infiltration that freezes and thaws as temperatures fluctuate in winter. Spalling is dangerous because it weakens the bricks, and if enough of them are compromised, it can weaken the chimney’s structure, leading to complete collapse.

Weak Footing

Sometimes, poor construction can lead to chimneys crumbling. If the footer isn’t deep enough or too thin, it will crack under the chimney’s weight over time. Once it cracks, the chimney becomes unstable, leading to crumbling bricks.

Sinking Foundation

If the foundation sinks, it can cause the chimney to lean, leading to damage. Foundations sink because the soil they’re built on becomes saturated with water, causing it to shift or sink.

How Dangerous is a Damaged Chimney?

Chimney damage isn’t something to take lightly or put off because it poses severe risks to your home and family.

Fire Hazards

According to the [National Fire Protection Association], there were approximately 23,000 chimney fires in the United States in 2018, resulting in ten deaths, 30 injuries, and $125 million in property damage. Although creosote buildup and other obstructions are the primary cause of chimney fires, cracked and crumbling bricks can cause combustible materials to ignite.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

A blocked or damaged chimney can prevent carbon monoxide, a toxic gas produced by combustion, from venting correctly. This can result in dangerous levels of carbon monoxide accumulating in the home, leading to poisoning and even death.

Water Damage

Once bricks and mortar joints crack, water can enter the chimney, worsening the situation. If water gets into your house, it can lead to mold and wood rot. Leaky Chimneys that allow water in can cause many types of damage to your chimney.

Structural Damage

A damaged chimney can compromise the integrity of the entire structure. Cracks and settling can cause the chimney to lean or collapse, posing a danger to the occupants, the roof, and nearby property.

How to Prevent Chimney Crumbling

Despite all that bad news, there’s good news; you can prevent most chimney damage by taking these steps.

Schedule Annual Maintenance & Inspections

Scheduling annual chimney maintenance, cleaning, and inspection by a certified professional is essential for identifying and repairing minor issues before they lead to problems like crumbling and deterioration.

Install a Chimney Cap

Chimney caps prevent water, debris, and animals from entering your chimney and wreaking havoc.

Only Use Seasoned Firewood

Burning firewood with too much moisture creates more smoke, increasing creosote buildup. Creosote is corrosive and highly flammable, so it’s crucial only to burn dry firewood to keep your chimney safe.

Don’t Overload the Fireplace

Overloading the fireplace means adding too much wood or other combustible material like trash to burn at once. This creates excessive heat and smoke, increasing wear and tear on your chimney.

Call the Fluesbrothers

The Fluesbrothers are the go-to chimney service company in Kansas City because we do it all.

Whether it’s chimney sweeping, maintenance, inspection, repairs, installations, or anything else, we’re the area’s most trusted full-service chimney and fireplace contractor.

Our technicians are CSIA-certified professionals and undergo constant training to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and technologies for efficiency and safety. We proudly serve the Kansas City Metro area and beyond. Book an appointment now by calling 913-236-7141 or using our handy contact form to schedule online.

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