While chimneys are much more durable these days than they ever have been, they will have occasional problems you should look out for. Learn in this article about 3 common types of chimney repair and how to know when to call a professional.
Water Damage Prevention/Repair
Since the top of your chimney is constantly exposed to all types of weather and precipitation, it will most likely become victim to water damage, possibly causing water to leak into your home. To prevent water in your chimney, a professional can install a waterproof cap or even waterproof your whole chimney. This will save you money in the long run on pricey repairs caused by extensive water damage.
Creosote Removal
If you commonly burn fires in your fireplace, creosote will inevitably build up over time. Creosote is a tar-like substance made of dangerous chemicals combined with the smoke that goes up the chimney. If there is any type of crack in your flue liner, these gases can leak into your home.
It’s important to have a professional inspect your chimney for creosote at least once a year so it can be removed before it becomes a threat to the health of your family. Not only is creosote potentially harmful to your health, but it can cause an unpleasant smell in your home as well.
Crack Repair
Cracks are very common in chimneys, but the good news is they’re usually easy to fix. Pay special attention to the mortar around the firebox and make sure it’s kept in good condition. If you start to notice any signs of eroding, call a professional right away before cracks begin to form.
If you already have cracks around the firebox or higher up in the chimney, a professional can easily fix those as well. But if you have a large crack around the bottom of your chimney, sometimes the only option is to tear down and rebuild the chimney.
It is important to talk with your repair professional about your chimney situation and all of the options you have and how your safety is affected with each choice so you can make an informed decision.