Signs that Your Chimney is in Need of Repair This Summer
Summer may be winding down, which means that if there are problems with your chimney you should have them addressed before winter gets here. We train each Chimney Solutions employee to look for the signs of a chimney in need of repair. As a homeowner, you too can often identify them with a simple visual inspection. Let’s go over the signs your chimney needs to be repaired this summer.
You can see visual issues with your masonry
Issues with your masonry are a recipe for disaster. They can lead to a leaning chimney and potentially the need to completely rebuild your chimney from the ground up. Smaller issues should be addressed right away as well, such as cracks or gaps in your brick and mortar. These can let water in and, as temperatures drop across Indiana, lead to that water freezing and causing even bigger cracks and larger problems.
A chimney sweep technician discovers a cracked liner
You should have your chimney swept at least once per year, sometimes twice (depending on how much you use your chimney). During your annual sweep and inspection, your tech may discover that your chimney liner is cracked or damaged. Your chimney should not be used until this is repaired as it can lead to other problems with your home such as a house fire.
Your chimney cap is missing
Walk outside and look up at your chimney. Is your cap still in place? If not, there’s a good chance there may be some blockages inside of your flue. In addition, a cracked or broken cap does you no good either. If you can see damage to it from the ground, it’s time to have it replaced.
There is rust inside of your firebox
If you notice rust on the inside of your firebox, contact Chimney Solutions right away. This is a sign of a moisture problem, which means your chimney is not functioning properly. It can point to everything from a damaged damper to cracked flue tiles and more.
Bricks are “spalling”
Do you know what “spalling” means? Essentially, it means that your bricks are distended. Something inside of your flue has pushed the bricks out. This is also an early warning sign that there may be an eventual problem with the masonry structure.
Your crown appears cracked
Lastly, although not always visible from the ground, if your crown appears cracked it means that water will be able to penetrate into your home. This can lead to a leak in your ceiling and potentially a costly internal repair (including mold and drywall issues).
Call us if your chimney needs to be repaired this summer
Each of these visual clues that your chimney needs to be repaired this summer can easily be handled by a member of our trained team. We’ll fix any problems with your masonry, ensure that your liner is functional, make certain that your cap is in place, fix any rust issues, and more. Contact any of our Chimney Solutions, LLC team members by calling us at (317) 757-6979 or by filling out our website form.
