Why A Chimney Crown is Important (Even Necessary)

If you’ve got a fireplace, you’ve got a chimney. And if you’ve got a chimney, you should have a chimney crown. Problem is, most homeowners don’t know what that is or why it’s important. But here’s the deal: that concrete or stone slab sitting on top of the chimney isn’t just there for decoration. It’s one of the most critical parts of your chimney system, and without it, you could be looking at major repair bills down the road.

What is a Chimney Crown?

The chimney crown is like a lid for your chimney. It’s the cap that covers the top of the brick or stone structure (but not the flue opening) — that’s what the cap does. The crown’s job is to keep water, snow, and ice from getting into the masonry and causing damage. Think of the crown like an umbrella for the chimney. Without it, rain would pour straight into the masonry and the space between the flue and chimney walls. And if you know anything, water and masonry don’t mix.

A good chimney crown slopes slightly downward so water runs off the sides instead of pooling on the top. It also extends a little past the chimney’s edges, kind of like a baseball cap brim, to keep water from running straight down the masonry.

Why You Absolutely Need One

Chimneys are exposed to everything Mother Nature throws at them: blazing sun, freezing temps, pounding rain, snow, and wind. Over time, all that weather takes a toll. The crown acts as your chimney’s first line of defense. Without it, you’re inviting a long list of problems, including:

• Masonry deterioration
• Flue damage
• Interior leaks

In short, a chimney without a crown is like a roof without shingles—it’s a disaster waiting to happen.

Types of Crown Damage

Even if you have a chimney crown, it’s not a set-it-and-forget-it kind of thing. Crowns can take a beating over the years, and when they start to fail, you have to act fast. Here are the most common types of chimney crown damage.

• Cracks and Splits: Temperature changes cause expansion and contraction. Over time, this movement creates cracks in the crown, which let in moisture. Even small cracks can turn into big ones quickly.
• Erosion: Rain, wind, and snow can wear the crown’s surface away, making it rough, pitted, and less effective at shedding water.
• Poor Construction: Some older crowns were made with the wrong materials (like standard mortar instead of concrete), making them more prone to damage. Others weren’t built with the proper slope, so water just sits there and seeps in.
• Rust Stains or Metal Failure: If your crown includes metal flashing or reinforcement, it can rust over time, leading to staining and potential structural issues.

When to Call a Pro

A little bit of wear and tear is normal, but here’s the thing: chimney crown damage can go from “no big deal” to “huge repair bill” pretty quickly. You should call a chimney professional if you notice:

• Visible cracks, especially wider than hairline
• Water stains in the home, which could mean your crown is letting water in
• Chunks or missing pieces
• Rust on the chimney cap or flue
• Pooling water on the crown, which means it’s not sloped correctly and needs to be fixed

A professional chimney sweep can inspect the crown and let you know whether it needs sealing, resurfacing, or a full rebuild. The good news is that if you catch problems early, repairs are usually quick and affordable. Wait too long and you could be looking at a much bigger job, like rebuilding part of the chimney.

Do you know what’s going on with your chimney crown? Call the experts at Northeastern Chimney Inc. We’re the most trusted chimney and fireplace professionals in Central Connecticut. Whether you need a crown installation, repair, chimney cleaning, or anything else, our expert team can handle it. Plus, we offer a 5-star guarantee, ensuring you’re happy with the work. Contact us today!

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

As with any other part of your chimney or furnace, you can experience damage or just regular wear and tear. 

This is why the furnace flue should indeed be inspected regularly. If a furnace flue is not venting properly, it can leak carbon monoxide gas into your home. This can be a deadly situation and should be taken seriously. This can also be detected by an inspection.

Your furnace flue is not maintained by your utility company. Many homeowners are unaware of this. A lack of maintenance or neglect can be life-threatening.

Potential Issues:

• A by-product of gas and oil furnaces can cause the flue lining to deteriorate or be eaten away. This acidic condensate can cause damaging effects to the flue furnace. 
• Broken pieces of the deteriorated furnace can cause a blockage that would allow poisonous gas to enter the home. These fumes are odorless, tasteless, and invisible. 
• Other blockages. If there is no chimney cap to prevent debris and animals from getting into the furnace, this can cause a blockage, also causing carbon monoxide poisoning.

When Should I Schedule A Flue Furnace Inspection?

Whenever you get a new flue installed, have a professional chimney specialist verify that the flue is in good working condition. Annual maintenance is important to the overall health of the flue. Call Northeastern Chimney for your appointment today.

What Problems Can Be Experienced?

• Backdraft. Exhaust being pulled into the home is a sure sign that backdraft is an issue. 
• Liner Damage. Especially in older homes, liners are made of terra-cotta clay tiles. Over time, the heat from the furnace starts to deteriorate the clay tiles.  
• Moisture/Condensation. If condensation or moisture is noted on the windows, especially when the furnace is just turned on, this may indicate that the furnace is not venting properly. This is caused by fumes leaking into the home from the furnace. 
• Incorrect Slope. Furnaces have high levels of condensation. If the slope of the furnace is not draining this condensation, it may trigger a shutdown. This can cause venting problems. 

As A Homeowner, What Can I Do?

• Book an annual furnace flue inspection. Maintenance and keeping up is important to the overall function and efficiency of your furnace. 
• Install and check your CO2 detector. Every home should have a CO2 detector. Have one installed or do it yourself. 

Professionals suggest that an annual Chimney sweep and inspection be conducted. When a problem arises, the best plan is to tackle it as soon as possible. This will cost you much less than if you let the damage to the fireplace and bricks go on too long.

Schedule your inspection or cleaning soon by calling Northeastern Chimney. We service all of Hartford, Tolland, and Litchfield Counties. All our chimney technicians are trained and qualified. We are active in the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG). Our technicians are trained and qualified to complete a quality job. We stand by our reputation. You can trust that we will take care of you in a timely and courteous manner. 

The post Why A Furnace Flue Inspection Is Important appeared first on .

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

On many of our social media platforms, we get messages sent to us asking if it is really important to clean the dryer vent. Because there are some people who fail to pull out the lint catcher to clean it, we always clarify and ask, “Do you clean your lint catcher?” If the answer is yes, then we can have the conversation about the importance of cleaning the dryer vent.

Here’s a quick Question & Answer on Dryer Vent Cleaning.

Q: How often should I get the dryer vent cleaned?

A: It is recommended that the dryer vent gets cleaned at least once per year. More frequent if you have a large family and the dryer is used frequently.

Q: How do I know if I need a dryer vent inspection?

A: There are many ‘signs’ to watch for. Let’s go through a few.

Longer Drying Times: if you notice that it’s taking a long time for the clothes to dry, it could be a ‘sign’ that the vent is clogged.

Overheating Dryer: if you place your hand on top of your dryer and it is too hot to even touch, then you know there is restricted airflow. It must be cleaned immediately to be sure it doesn’t turn into a fire.

Burning Smell: if you smell something burning when the dryer is on, this again would mean that there is lint built up in the venting system. It must be cleaned right away to be sure it doesn’t catch fire.

Energy Bills: sometimes these signs just don’t show up. But you noticed that your energy bills have increased. One big culprit is the clothes dryer because it is being forced to work harder than normal.

Lint Buildup: you may or may not see the lint buildup due to where it is installed. If you notice that lint is building up outside of the vent opening, it is time to get the exhaust vent cleaned out.

Q: Why should I clean the dryer vent?

A: As you can tell from a couple of the answers, one very important reason is to prevent a fire from occurring. In addition, it is to speed up the drying process which leads to saving on energy.

Q: What is included in the dryer vent cleaning?

A: Superior Chimney technicians will be conducting a complete assessment of the venting system ensuring there are no blockages and damage. The technician will begin to remove the linkage with our specialized tools that remove any of the lint as well as other debris. Most important is to test the airflow. We want to be sure the exhaust can freely flow through the venting system for proper removal of carbon monoxide. And finally, we’ll always ensure our work is done properly and is safe for you to use again.

As you can tell, it is important to clean the dryer vent once per year to keep your home in great working order. Contact us today at 877-244-6349 to schedule your appointment. Don’t wait for the winter sweaters to build up lint again in your dryer vent.

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

As the Chicagoland area continues to reach hot temperatures, we’ve had some very uncomfortable humid days. Simply working in the garden or walking down the driveway to get the mail, you’ll experience drips of sweat due to the high humidity. Your chimney is going through similar experiences. Humidity can intensify unwanted smoke smells from the chimney and fireplace into your home, especially if it hasn’t been swept yet. Let’s talk about humidity and the chimney and what you can do about it.

Humidity and the Chimney Equals Intensified Smells

We all enjoy a roaring fire in the cool or cold months. Did you know that with a wood burning fireplace a byproduct called creosote is released, and a fair amount sticks to the interior walls of the chimney? If not swept after the season is over, it will begin to release a smoky smell with the mix of humidity. At times, there may also be another odor. This smell could be musty, and you could be smelling mold and mildew. It can often times happen if there isn’t a waterproofing agent to keep moisture out. The smell of mold and mildew isn’t limited to those with wood burning fireplaces, it can also be gas fireplaces or those that don’t even use the fireplace.

Can the Smell be Controlled?

Absolutely. You don’t need to live with humidity and the chimney. Here are a few ways you can remove/minimize the smell from your home, especially on those humid days.

Chimney Sweep and Inspection — A regular chimney sweep and inspection can control the smells that come from the fireplace whether it be creosote or the mildew smell. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) encourages all homeowners to sweep their chimney every year for the safest and best way to enjoy your fireplace.

Chimney Damper — Chimney dampers control the flow of air which can play a big part in getting rid of the smell. Chimney dampers are a great way to control the flow of air especially when you are burning a fire.

Chimney Cap — A chimney cap plays a key role in keeping water out of the chimney. It protects the opening on top of the chimney from animals, debris and rain or snow from entering the chimney. By keeping everything out, you also get to keep the musty smells out too!

If you like smoked foods, get a smoker. You definitely don’t want that continuous smoky smell in your home due to humidity and the chimney. Call Superior Chimney today to get your chimney swept and inspected especially since we’ve had many humid days, and probably more to come. Call 877-244-6349 today!

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

Got a fireplace? Then you’ve got a damper. You might not think about it much—until one cold night when your cozy fire turns your living room into a smokehouse or your heating bill makes you question your life choices.

The good news? With just a little know-how, you can keep things running safely and efficiently. Let’s take a look at what your damper actually does, how to use it, and when it might be time for a replacement.

What’s a Chimney Damper, Anyway?

A damper is a metal flap inside your chimney flue. You can open or close it to manage airflow. Open it when you have a fire going, so smoke and gases can escape. Close it when the fireplace isn’t in use, so you’re not losing warm air or letting cold drafts creep in.

It’s a simple concept—but using it the wrong way can lead to some big problems.

Tips for Using Your Damper the Right Way

Open It Before You Light a Fire

This one’s non-negotiable. If you light a fire with the damper shut, all that smoke has nowhere to go. Suddenly, your relaxing evening includes coughing, a smoky house, and probably a visit from the smoke alarm. Not ideal.

Most dampers have a lever, knob, or chain to adjust them. Not sure if it’s open? Try shining a flashlight up the flue or checking for a draft with your hand.

Keep It Open While the Fire’s Going

This might seem obvious, but some folks close the damper early, thinking it’ll help trap heat inside. Don’t do it. That just sends dangerous smoke and gases back into your home. Wait until the fire is completely out—no glowing embers, no smoke—before you close it.

Shut It After Everything Cools Off

Once things have cooled down, close the damper to keep your warm air in and outdoor air (and maybe a few critters) out. Just be sure there’s no heat or smoke left lingering before you do.

Don’t Force a Stuck Damper

If it feels jammed or too tough to move, don’t yank on it. You could end up doing more harm than good. It might just need some cleaning or lubrication—or it might be time for a repair. Either way, it’s best to have a pro take a look.

Signs That Your Damper Might Be Done For

Dampers don’t last forever. Here are a few red flags that yours might be on its way out:

It’s Hard to Open or Close

If it feels rusted, warped, or stuck, it may not be doing its job. That’s not just annoying—it’s unsafe.

Drafts Sneak In Even When It’s Closed

A properly sealed damper should block outside air. If cold air’s slipping through, it could mean the seal is worn out, or the damper itself is bent or cracked.

Smoke Comes Inside Even When It’s Open

If you’ve got smoke entering the room despite the damper being open, something’s off. It might be misaligned or partially blocking the flue.

You Notice Rust or Visible Damage

Rust means moisture has found its way in, which can lead to serious issues. Cracks are another bad sign—they can let smoke and harmful gases escape into your living space.

It’s Been There Forever

If your damper has been around since your house was built, it’s probably time for an upgrade. Older throat dampers don’t seal as well as newer models, and switching to a top-sealing damper can make a big difference in both efficiency and comfort.

Think Your Damper Needs a Checkup?

If your damper’s acting up—or if you just want peace of mind before fireplace season hits—get in touch with Northeastern Chimney. We’ve helped homeowners all over central Connecticut keep their chimneys clean and working right. Whether it’s a simple fix or time for a full replacement, our certified team can help.

Call us today to schedule an inspection and make sure your fireplace is ready for the cold months ahead.

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

While it is still quite hot in Georgia, as the cooler months start to approach, many Georgia homeowners begin dreaming of cozy evenings by the fire. But before you light that first log or turn on your gas logs, there’s one critical question to ask: Is your chimney ready for winter?

At Southern Chimneys, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners in the Atlanta area and throughout Georgia keep their fireplaces safe, functional, and beautiful year-round. A neglected chimney can cause serious issues—from smoke and draft problems to dangerous chimney fires or carbon monoxide drafting into your home.

Here are the top signs your chimney needs repairs before winter hits, so you can stay warm and safe this season.

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1. Visible Cracks in the Chimney or Firebox

If you can see cracks in the masonry or brick panels, either on the exterior of your chimney or inside the firebox, don’t wait. Cracks allow moisture to seep in, especially during Georgia’s rainy season, which accelerates deterioration and weakens the structure.

• Exterior cracks could mean shifting, water damage, or foundation issues.
• Interior firebox cracks may indicate worn-out refractory panels or heat damage.

Southern Chimneys often sees this issue during pre-winter inspections and catching it early can prevent far more expensive repairs later.

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2. White Staining (Efflorescence) on the Chimney Exterior

White, chalky stains on your chimney may look harmless, they’re actually a sign of serious trouble. This substance—called efflorescence—appears when water passes through your masonry and dissolves natural salts. When the moisture evaporates, it leaves behind a visible residue.

This is a major red flag for moisture intrusion, one of the most destructive forces for chimneys in Georgia. Moisture can deteriorate mortar, rust components, and even cause mold or mildew in your attic or walls.

Fix it before winter—or risk worsening the problem as freezing temps expand trapped water inside your masonry.

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3. A Strong Odor Coming from the Fireplace

Does your fireplace smell like campfire, burnt wood, or even something worse—like a musty, sour smell?

If so, you could be dealing with:

• Creosote buildup (a leading cause of chimney fires)
• Moisture and mold
• Animal nesting or debris blockages

In Georgia’s humid climate, even an unused chimney can develop moisture and odor issues, especially during summer storms. If it smells bad now, just wait until you light a fire.

This is where chimney cleanings and camera scope inspections become essential. A professional chimney sweep from Southern Chimneys can remove buildup, address venting issues, and ensure everything is clean and odor-free before winter.

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4. Smoke Backing Up Into the Home

If smoke isn’t venting properly, it’s not just annoying, it’s dangerous. Poor draft or improper airflow can lead to carbon monoxide buildup, which is odorless and potentially deadly.

Common causes of backdraft include:

• A blocked or damaged flue
• Creosote or soot buildup
• Incorrect damper operation
• Structural damage, such as a collapsing flue liner
• Chimney height

If you’re experiencing smoke inside the house—even just a little—it’s time to call the pros. This should be addressed before fireplace season starts to avoid delays, major safety risks and to ensure your fireplace is ready for use once those chilly nights hit.

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5. Rust on the Firebox or Damper

Noticing rust flakes or brown/orange streaks around your fireplace? That’s a sure sign of excess moisture and metal corrosion.

Rust can:

• Compromise the damper, causing poor airflow and energy loss
• Weaken metal components in the firebox or flue
• Signal a larger moisture problem that may already be affecting your masonry or roof

If your fireplace maintenance schedule doesn’t already include an annual check for rust and water intrusion, now’s the time to start.

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6. Water Leaks or Stains Around the Fireplace

Water is your chimney’s worst enemy. If you see water stains, peeling paint, bubbling drywall, or moldy smells around your fireplace, these are red flags that water is getting in.

In Georgia, this is often due to:

• Missing or damaged chimney caps
• Cracked crown seals
• Failing flashing around where the chimney meets the roof

If your home is in Atlanta or the surrounding areas, the combination of rain, humidity, and winter temperature swings makes waterproofing and cap repair a critical part of chimney care.

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7. Loose or Missing Bricks and Mortar

Chimney bricks and mortar don’t last forever—especially with repeated exposure to moisture, heat, and freezing temperatures. If you notice:

• Spalling bricks (bricks with flaking faces)
• Loose or crumbling mortar joints
• Gaps between bricks

…it’s time for tuckpointing or masonry repair.

Southern Chimneys offers comprehensive masonry restoration throughout Georgia. Don’t let a small crack become a costly rebuild.

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8. Animals or Debris in the Chimney

Raccoons, birds, squirrels—you name it. Animals love to take shelter in unused chimneys. If you’re hearing scratching, chirping, or notice leaves and twigs falling into your firebox, your flue might be occupied.

An animal blockage can:

• Completely obstruct airflow
• Introduce parasites or bacteria into your home
• Lead to chimney fires when nests are ignited

A quality chimney cap will prevent this, and a professional sweep can remove any existing debris safely and clean up any mess these cute birds/animals may have left.

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9. Your Chimney Hasn’t Been Serviced This Year

Even if you don’t see obvious damage, not following a consistent fireplace maintenance schedule is a risk in itself. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), all fireplaces should be inspected annually and cleaned as needed.

That’s why Southern Chimneys encourages every Atlanta-area homeowner to schedule a chimney cleaning before winter. This ensures:

• Your fireplace is safe and functional
• Your home is protected from smoke, fire, and moisture damage
• You avoid last-minute service delays during peak season

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10. Want to Upgrade or Elevate Your Space

If your fireplace looks outdated, doesn’t match your current style, or you simply want to breathe new life into your living room, now is the perfect time to consider a fireplace upgrade before winter.

A fireplace is often the centerpiece of your home, especially during the colder months. It’s where families gather, where guests are entertained, and where lasting memories are made; but an old or unattractive fireplace can drag down the entire feel of your space.

At Southern Chimneys, we specialize in fireplace renovations and aesthetic upgrades for homeowners across Atlanta and surrounding area. Whether you’re dreaming of a sleek modern gas insert, a timeless stove insert, or a custom herringbone firebox, we can help you design a look that fits your taste and lifestyle.

Here are a few ways we can help upgrade your fireplace:

• Convert a wood-burning fireplace to gas logs for a cleaner, more efficient heating option
• Install a gas insert or stove insert that fits your style and aesthetics
• Upgrade your firebox to a herringbone or a small brick pattern

Southern Chimneys is Atlanta’s trusted source for fireplace remodeling, let’s make your vision a reality.

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Why Pre-Winter Chimney Repairs Matter in Georgia

Winter might not be brutal in Georgia, but fluctuating temperatures, rain, and humidity can wreak havoc on damaged masonry or neglected flues. If your chimney is already compromised, the freeze/thaw cycle will make it worse.

Plus, the moment the weather cools down, service demand skyrockets—which can mean longer wait times for repairs. That’s why we recommend booking your cleaning and camera scope inspection appointment with Southern Chimneys in late summer or early fall.

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Schedule Your Chimney Inspection Today with Southern Chimneys

Southern Chimneys is proud to serve Atlanta, GA and surrounding communities with expert chimney inspection, repair, and cleaning services. We’re family-owned, fully certified, and committed to giving every customer the safest, cleanest, and coziest fireplace experience possible.

Don’t wait for the cold to catch you off guard. Be proactive and:

• Schedule your chimney inspection
• Stick to your fireplace maintenance schedule
• Fix any chimney issues before they become expensive hazards

Call Southern Chimneys today at 678.744.4046 to make sure your fireplace and chimney is winter-ready!

The post Winter Chimney Repair: Top Signs Your Chimney Needs Fixing Before Cold Weather first appeared on Southern Chimneys.

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

The Hidden Dangers of Summer Sun Exposure

Masonry Under Siege

Your chimney’s bricks and mortar face a constant battle against thermal expansion. As temperatures soar during the day and cool at night, this repeated expansion and contraction creates stress fractures that can compromise your chimney’s structural integrity. Meanwhile, UV radiation slowly breaks down the chemical bonds in mortar, weakening what should be your chimney’s strongest defense.

Crown Deterioration

The concrete crown at the top of your chimney serves as your first line of defense against the elements. Under relentless sun exposure, this protective barrier can dry out and develop cracks, creating pathways for water infiltration that can lead to expensive interior damage.

Aesthetic Decline

Beyond structural concerns, prolonged sun exposure causes painted and coated surfaces to fade and deteriorate, affecting your home’s curb appeal and potentially impacting its value.

The Rust Factor: A Growing Concern

Your chimney’s metal components—including caps, dampers, and chase covers—face their own set of challenges. When rust takes hold, the consequences can be severe:

Water Infiltration: Rust creates holes in protective metal surfaces, allowing moisture to penetrate your home’s structure and potentially cause thousands of dollars in damage.

Safety Risks: A compromised system can trap dangerous gases in your home, while weakened structural components may fail when you need them most.

Costly Repairs: What starts as surface rust can quickly escalate into major structural issues requiring extensive repairs or complete component replacement.

Visual Impact: Rust stains create unsightly orange streaks on your chimney’s exterior, signaling maintenance issues to neighbors and potential buyers.

Your Protection Strategy

The encouraging news is that these problems are mostly preventable with proper maintenance. Professional-grade sealants offer comprehensive protection by creating a barrier against UV radiation, moisture penetration, and the oxidation process that leads to rust formation.

Our Recommendation

If your chimney hasn’t received professional attention in the past year, we strongly recommend scheduling an inspection and sealant application. This proactive approach typically costs a fraction of major repairs while ensuring your family’s safety and protecting your investment.

Summer’s intense conditions make this the ideal time to address these concerns before they escalate. An investment in preventive care today can save you thousands in repairs tomorrow while giving you peace of mind knowing your chimney system is properly protected.

Ready to protect your home? Contact us to schedule your free estimate for a sealant application at 781-893-6611 or www.bestchimney.com under the Schedule an Appointment tab

The post What Does the Blazing Sun Do to Your Chimney? And Why Sealants are a Must appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Summer has finally reared its head. We have been waiting a long time, some folks longer than others. Living in New England, we can be hit by some good winter storms. Property damage, whether it is to trees or structures, is common. But don’t let your guard down. 

Summer is also a time when stormy weather hits New England. A hurricane is common to see throughout the summer. We have also seen a tornado come through our hills. All the reasons to be prepared. Being prepared means making sure that your chimney is intact without any issues of cracks, leaks, or other damage.

Professionals suggest that an annual Chimney sweep and inspection be conducted. When a problem arises, the best plan is to tackle it as soon as possible. This will cost you much less than if you let the damage to the fireplace and bricks go on too long.

Now is a great time to have your yearly chimney inspection. Our highly trained professionals will look over all aspects of your chimney and fireplace and repair any damage before you experience any summertime storms. 

Water damage from storms and humidity, animal infestations, as well as musty odors due to the lack of ventilation, are just some of the issues that fireplace owners deal with in summer. 

Damages That May Occur With Summer Storms

• Masonry Leakage – Bricks are porous. They tend to take in water and are damaged in the winter with the freeze/thaw effect. If not sealed, additional water can seep in and form cracks in the bricks.
• Spalling bricks – Moisture can cause bricks to spall (crumble or flake), leading to structural problems.
• Chimney Crown Damage – The chimney crown is the cement structure designed to shed water away from your chimney. Intense storms with wind and rain can damage them. This is something to watch for.  
• Flashing dislodged – The flashing is the metal sheet that is at the base of the chimney and roof. Winds, hail, and rain can dislodge the flashing, causing water to seep in. 
• Blockages – During the summer, small animals try to find shelter. As the chimney isn’t being used, it seems to be the perfect place to shelter down. They bring in twigs and leaves to nest, which can cause blockages. 
• Structural Damage – Heavy wind, along with hail and rain, can whip around your chimney and cause structural damage. Especially if the chimney needs repair. 

Prevention

• Be aware – Always keep an eye on any visual repairs that may be needed.
• Regular maintenance – An annual chimney sweep and inspection are recommended to keep your chimney in the best working order.
• Water Repellant – Once the chimney is completely dry, a water repellent can be applied. Our technicians are trained to tackle this job. They know the appropriate time to apply and use the best products. 

Schedule your inspection or cleaning soon by calling Northeastern Chimney. We service all of Hartford, Tolland, and Litchfield Counties. All our chimney technicians are trained and qualified. We are active in the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG).

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

Moisture. We’re in a constant battle with moisture. It doesn’t help that we live in the Chicagoland area, and there’s always moisture, or humidity in the air. Now we’re battling hot days, storms, hot days and more storms. And that leads to more moisture and humidity in the air. That constant hot temperatures in the summer and cold weather in the winter with snow and rain storms mixed in, the chimney takes a beating. The best way to protect the chimney, is to apply a chimney saver, a waterproof agent that repels water. Why is chimney saver a good idea?

Moisture is a Problem for Masonry

Ensuring that your chimney is healthy means keeping the chimney maintained annualy. This means keeping the water and moisture out! When it rains, and we all know it will, the materials soak up moisture and because it is a porous material, water invites itself in and slowly begins to deteriorate the bricks and mortar.

Remember we talked about the freeze – thaw cycle? When water freezes, the pores expand. When the water thaws, it leaves a little bit larger space for the water to enter the next time. As this continues to repeat itself each year, the bricks become unstable, crack and eventually fall out.

How Does the Chimney Saver Work?

Using a chimney treatment like our Chimney Saver solution, is one of the best, most affordable ways to prevent rain water from absorbing in the bricks, stone and mortar. What does the chimney treatment do?

1. Prevents cracking of the bricks, stone and mortar
2. Keeps water out so leaks don’t form
3. Maintains the chimney structure
4. Extends the life of the chimney

When is it Best to Apply the Chimney Saver?

It’s best during the Spring, Summer and Fall months when it is mostly dry so the sealant is absorbed deep into the bricks and mortar for maximum protection. Chimney Saver is a spray application that gets quickly absorbed into the materials.  While we are in the hot summer months, contact us today at 877-244-6349 to get your Chimney Saver applied to the chimney today.

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

It’s challenging to determine if the chimney has problems because its height makes it difficult to observe or see everything clearly, and it’s hard to know what to look for or how often to check. We’ve developed a few important signs to check in order to know if your chimney needs repair. Let’s take a look at our top 5.

1. White Stains or Efflorescence

We’re starting with this one as most homeowners aren’t aware that the white stains or efflorescence means your chimney needs repair. If you have white stains on your exterior chimney, this means that there is excess moisture in the chimney. The white stains will go away, most often, with a good wash, but it does mean that a certified chimney professional needs to evaluate why there is excess moisture in your chimney.

2. Mortar Joint Deterioration

Most chimneys are made of bricks or stone. In between the brick and stone is mortar. Because both the brick, stone and mortar are porous materials, it deteriorates over time. When this gets damaged, moisture from humidity, rain, and snow flows into the cracks, even the smallest hairline cracks, and enters into the chimney, making its way down into the structure. It is important to get the exterior chimney inspected each year, because if the chimney is left with the mortar joint deterioration too long, the chimney can collapse.

3. Spalling or Flaking Brick, Stone and Mortar

Spalling on the chimney is when pieces of the chimney, the brick, stone and mortar, weaken to the point it comes away from the chimney and falls on the roof. This means that there is water damage. When the chimney is left unchecked, damage begins to form and continues to erode over time. This means a certified professional will need to determine if the chimney needs repairs, a partial build or a completely new chimney.

4. Chimney Crown Damage

The chimney crown is the slab of concrete that sits and extends over the bricks or stone chimney. It serves the purpose of protecting the chimney from the weather elements, drawing it away from the chimney itself. The chimney crown is also a porous material where over time, cracks can form allowing moisture into the chimney and home. During an inspection, this will be checked ensuring that it’s constantly working to protect the chimney and your home.

5. Rusting on the Damper

Yes, rusting can occur on the damper or even the firebox. When rusting happens, it is a clear indication that moisture is present. During the time of an inspection, the certified technician will check the operations and sealant of the damper. Moisture inside of the chimney can be a sign of more complications.

These top 5 are a great way to know if your chimney needs repair. Contact us today at 877-244-6349 to schedule an appointment to have your chimney inspected by a certified professional.

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