How Do You Know that Your Chimney Needs Repair? The Top 5.
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
