Tips And Tricks To Removing Efflorescence On Brick
One of the many appeals of a brick home is the classic appearance brick exteriors have. A brick house isn’t just a structurally sound building –– it also has a lot of aesthetic charm too. Unfortunately, certain stains and issues can arise that can tarnish the timeless look of a brick home. A very common type of brick stain is known as efflorescence. Efflorescence is salt deposit left on brick surfaces as a result of exposure to water. Don’t be fooled though –– even homes far away from salt-water bodies can be subjected to efflorescence. Fortunately, today we’re going to provide useful tips for preventing, identifying, and removing efflorescence on brick surfaces.
What Causes Efflorescence?
The short answer to this question is water. Because brick is porous, it is susceptible to water damage. When there is a surfeit of water in the soil around brick structures, water and water soluble salts can enter the microscopic gaps within bricks. Eventually, these salts will make their way to a brick surface and be left as a deposit after water evaporates.
Is Efflorescence a Serious Problem?
Efflorescence on its own won’t cause significant damage to a brick structure –– even if it is an eyesore. Yet, the mere presence of efflorescence could indicate an issue with drainage around a brick home. And, if ignored, water damage over time could lead to serious issues like foundation problems.
What Does Efflorescence Look Like?
Efflorescence appears as a white, chalky substance on the surface of bricks. (Unsurprisingly, it looks like salt.) It may feel loose at first, but it will harden over time.
How Can You Prevent Efflorescence?
Ideally, homeowners should seek to prevent efflorescence and other brick stains from forming in the first place. There are several ways to reduce the risk of efflorescence forming on your home.
First, install or repair your drainage system. If water collects on or near the base of your home, efflorescence could be the least of your worries down the line.
Second, ensure that your foundation doesn’t rest flush on top of soil. Failing to amend this issue will allow moisture and water soluble salts to infiltrate the structure directly.
Third, apply a brick sealant to protect your exteriors. Note, make sure that you’re using a sealant that allows bricks to “breathe” and that doesn’t trap water particles underneath. Such sealants could actually make the problem worse.
Removing Efflorescence
Time is a big factor for those looking to remove efflorescence on their own. If you’re able to spot efflorescence soon after it forms, you may be able to remove it by power washing your brick exterior. (Word to the wise: excessive power washing in and of itself isn’t great for brick walls, so use this approach sparingly.)
If, however, the efflorescence has hardened, you probably won’t be able to remove it with just water. In this instance, homeowners can remove efflorescence stains using a muriatic acid solution and by scrubbing thoroughly. Remember, you should always use safety goggles and gloves when using cleaning materials like these.
The Bottom Line
The best approach to removing efflorescence is to contact the Brickworks team for assistance. Not only will we be able to treat and remove the stains efficiently and effectively, but we’ll also examine your home to ensure you’re not facing any serious water damage issues. A check-up now could save you thousands down the line. Call us today at (586) 330-4920 if you’ve experienced efflorescence or similar stains –– we’re ready to help protect your home!
Chimney Crown Repair: What You Need To Know
Chimney crowns are, perhaps, the area of a chimney most susceptible to external damage. Chimney crowns are located at the top of the chimney. They sit on top of the brick structure, and they’re sometimes made from leftover mortar that was used to build the chimney in the first place. Because chimney crowns face high levels of exposure to winds, rain, sunlight, (etc.) they may deteriorate faster than other parts of a chimney. Here, we’ll explain everything you need about chimney crown repair –– from spotting damage to preventing issues from ever occurring in the first place:
Chimney Crown Damage
Chimney crowns are most often damaged over time by the elements. Indeed, many chimney crowns will begin to develop cracks as they age, and, if ignored long enough, they may begin to crumble bit by bit. It’s important for homeowners to inspect their chimney regularly. Spotting and treating chimney crown cracks early on can help homeowners save thousands of dollars on repairs.
Sealing Chimney Crowns
The most effective way to repair most chimney crowns is to seal the surface. If the structure isn’t completely compromised, it’s possible to apply a sealant to caulk cracks and prevent further degradation. In addition, some homeowners may elect to seal their chimney crowns as a short-term solution during the winter. This isn’t to be recommended, though.
Chimney Crown Repairs
Chimney crowns that are too damaged to fix with a quick sealing will require more extensive repairs or total replacement. Just how long a given chimney crown will last can be difficult to predict. For one, varying climates will affect brick-and-mortar structures differently. In general, though, the wetter the area, the worse brick structures fare. Second, the material used to create the chimney crown will also have an influence on its durability. Sometimes contractors will use cheap mortar to form a chimney crown in order to complete a project quickly. When this is the case, chimney crowns won’t last very long. Depending on the extent of the damage, a chimney crown repair or replacement could cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
Chimney Maintenance Best Practices
A busted chimney crown can cause a myriad of issues. Cracks or holes in the crown can allow moisture to enter the chimney interior, and thus, quicken the erosion of the structure. In addition, crumbling chimney crowns won’t allow for proper ventilation, and they may also fail to properly contain chimney fires. Because chimney crowns are required to ensure proper chimney safety, we recommend that all homeowners get their chimneys inspected at least once a year. This way, a professional will be able to detect any potential problems and deal with them before they get out of hand.
The Bottom Line
Contacting a professional to take a look at your chimney crown won’t just give you peace of mind –– it’s likely to save you a good amount of money too. At Brickworks, we specialize in all aspects of chimney repair and maintenance, and we’re happy to help you complete your next masonry project. Contact us here for more information or to schedule a chimney inspection today!
The Ultimate Guide to Masonry Mortar
Masonry mortar is an adhesive substance comprised of cement, sand, and lime. Masons use mortar for a variety of different projects and in a variety of ways, but it often acts as the “glue” that holds structures together. So while mortar is still very much used in the brick-laying process, it has other applications as well. In addition, there are different types of mortar that are made up of unique materials and mix ratios. And certain home-improvement projects require specific mortars. Here, we’ll break down everything you need to know about masonry mortar:
Different Types of Masonry Mortar
In general, there are four (sometimes five) different types of masonry mortar mixes. They are: N, M, O, and S. (K is a specialized mortar mix, typically used in restoring old buildings that have a weaker structural composition.) Mortar mixes N and O are the two mortar mixes that are most often used in DIY restoration projects.
N Mortar Mix
N mortar mix is the “general application” mix. It’s designed for above grade usage and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. This is also the mortar used in soft-stone masonry projects.
O Mortar Mix
Type O mortar mix is, comparatively, the weakest type of mortar mix available. As such, homeowners should not use type O mix for any for any projects involving a building’s foundation or load-bearing walls. Rather, type O mix is perfect for smaller undertakings like tuckpointing or repointing a brick exterior. (For more information on the process of tuckpointing, check out our blog here.)
M & S Mortar
Both M and S mortar mix are used for below grade, heavy load-bearing projects. These undertakings include foundation repair, chimney repair, restoring load-bearing walls, strengthening patios, laying driveways, and repairing sewers. Type S and type M mixes are significantly stronger than type N and O, and homeowners will rarely use them in for DIY repairs.
Mortar vs Grout vs Concrete
Mortar is similar to other construction materials such as grout and concrete. Grout is composed of cement, sand, and water –– just like mortar –– but doesn’t contain any lime. As a result, grout is thinner and doesn’t have the adhesive properties of mortar. Professionals may use grout to patch holes in tiles, for instance.
Similarly, concrete is also composed of cement and sand, but instead of lime, it contains gravel. Concrete is used for a number of different projects and acts as a building block for structures like patios or driveways.
Mortar Costs and Best Practices
Masonry mortar may cost anywhere from $2-$3 per square feet. That might not sound like a lot, but considering the amount of mortar needed for foundation repairs, for instance, the total cost may end up exceeding a thousand dollars. For smaller home repairs such as tuckpointing, it is possible to purchase, mix, and apply mortar on your own. However, it’s recommended to consult with a professional before you do so. Even seemingly “simple” home improvement projects can go awry quickly and end up costing you a hefty amount in the long run.
Final Thoughts
At Brickworks, we have years of experience tackling an array of home-improvement projects. We’re masonry experts, and we’ll help you fix any issue you’re dealing with. Contact us today for more information or if you’re in need of an inspection!
5 Foundation Repair Tips from the Pros
Dealing with foundation damage can be a nightmare for any homeowner. Indeed, foundation damage will often prove to be costly, time-consuming, and stressful. Unfortunately, there’s no great trick for restoring a foundation that requires serious repairs. At a certain point, fixing a home’s foundation will necessitate plenty of man-hours and a significant chunk of money. Don’t fret, though –– it’s not all bad news. Today we’re going to share five of our favorite tips to prevent foundation issues, identify them, and mitigate your costs and risks associated with foundation repair. Check them out here:
Manage Your Drainage System
Water causes almost all cases of foundation damage. Note, even homes in areas that don’t receive excessive rain or are typically at risk for flooding can still be affected by water if they have a poor drainage system. With that in mind, it’s crucial for all homeowners to regularly check their gutters and schedule plumbing inspections regularly. In addition, it’s a smart idea to try and keep moisture levels consistent around your home. “Watering” your home’s foundation during a dry period can prevent the soil from shifting under your house. Lastly, avoid planting large trees close to your home. Their roots can affect soil makeup and compromise your foundation.
Fix “Little Problems” ASAP
It’s easy to overlook “small” issues around your house. Perhaps you’ve noticed a few cracks in your basement walls. Or maybe one of your windows gets stuck from time to time. The reality is, though, these little problems can be indicative of much bigger foundation trouble. If you spot any potential signs of foundation damage, call a professional immediately. It’s much cheaper and simpler to get a few cracks filled than to wait and potentially face full-scale foundation damage.
Partner with a Trusted Property Restoration Company
For many people, their home is the most important investment they’ll ever make. As such, it only makes sense to partner with a trusted property restoration business when foundation issues arise. Make sure to do your homework when selecting a foundation repair company. The last thing you want is further foundation damage in a few years due to shoddy workmanship.
Schedule Regular Inspections
Once you’ve found a home-improvement professional that you trust, make it a point to schedule regular inspections with them. These inspections are a cost-effective way to protect your home for years to come!
Talk to Your Insurance
Sometimes, homeowners don’t have any choice but to pay for expenses related to foundation repair out of their own pockets. Yet, occasionally, insurance companies will pay for some or all of the repairs. If, for instance, your home incurs foundation damage as a result of a flood or natural disaster, your insurance may be able to help you out. Remember, it never hurts to call them and ask!
Final Thoughts
No homeowner ever wants to deal with foundation issues. Yet, it’s important to realize that ignoring the problem won’t fix it. Rather, the sooner you identify an issue and act on it, the better off you’ll be in the future. If you’re concerned about your home’s foundation, then contact the professionals at Brickworks. We have years of industry experience, and we’re ready to take on any project –– no matter the size. Call us here at (586) 330-4920.
Foundation Waterproofing: 5 Facts All Homeowners Should Know
Few things can negatively affect a home’s value faster than water damage. Even small leaks in the basement or foundation of a house can force homeowners to pay a significant amount for repairs. Thankfully, foundation waterproofing can protect your home from water damage and other issues associated with excess moisture. Here, we’ll list five facts all homeowners should know about waterproofing their basement and explain why this is an investment worth making now –– not later:
Record Rainfalls Threaten Homes
2018 was the third wettest year in the US since record-keeping began in the 1890s. Across the board, the US experienced almost five inches more precipitation than 20th-century averages. While that may not sound like much, record levels of precipitation and flooding are a threat to more homes than ever before. This means that some homes that historically haven’t been affected by heavy rains and floods may now be at risk for severe water damage.
Good Waterproofing is Comprehensive
Obviously, no homeowner wants to experience standing water in their basement. However, water pooling around the outside of your home –– or under it –– can also lead to substantial foundation issues. The lesson here is that the best waterproofing methods address all aspects of water control, including drainage and sewage systems.
Brick and Concrete are NOT Naturally Waterproof
Brick and concrete fixtures are incredibly strong and durable, but they are susceptible to water damage. Just because you’ve invested in a concrete foundation, it doesn’t mean you can afford to overlook potential signs of water damage. Which leads us to our next point . . .
How to Identify Foundation-Water Issues
Some signs of water affecting a home’s foundation are easy-to-spot, while others can be much more subtle. Nevertheless, everyone who owns a home should be aware of certain signs that could indicate significant water damage. They are:
- Standing water in basement
- Mold or musty smells
- Curved or bowed walls
- Rusted metal pipes
- Stained walls
- Cracks in walls (especially in basement)
In addition, a number of factors can increase a home’s risk for developing water damage. If, for instance, your home is built on a slope that directs rainfall toward your house, then ensuring proper drainage is going to be difficult. Furthermore, intense periods of draught can change the makeup of the soil underneath your home and can make your foundation vulnerable to water damage when rain does return. It’s wise to check your drainage system and your gutters regularly. Doing so will allow you to predict and prevent major water damage from occurring.
Waterproofing is a Smart Investment
Even if you don’t have plans to renovate or “finish” your basement, water within your home can lead to a host of issues from an insecure foundation to disgusting mold and smells pervading your house. Rather than rolling the dice with your home, it makes much more sense to waterproof your foundation as soon as possible.
A Final Word
At Brickworks, we have years of experience dealing with foundation repair issues of all sizes. We only employ licensed professionals and we only use the best tools available on the market to ensure that we complete your project effectively and efficiently. Call us today at (586) 330-4843 if you’re concerned about water damage in your foundation. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem could become!
How to Choose The Right Chimney Cover
A chimney cover –– also known as a chimney cap –– is a small metal attachment that fits on the top of a chimney flue. Chimney covers serve multiple purposes. For one, they help prevent fires by containing sparks, debris, and flames that may rise out of a chimney. In addition, many improve a chimney’s ventilation and prevent downdrafts. They also keep out pests and birds and stop them from creating nests in your chimney, which can obstruct airflow. Lastly, chimney covers help mitigate against snow, ice, and rain entering your chimney and affecting the brick structure within.
Clearly, chimney covers are important. But how can you find the right chimney cover for your home? Below, we’ll explain everything you need to know about purchasing chimney caps and help you make a smart decision without any hassle:
Flue Shape & Size
Most chimney caps resemble a small metal box, but they do come in different shapes and sizes. The reason for this is that chimney flues can be round, ovular, squared off, or rectangular. And different chimney caps are designed to fit into different flues. Before you purchase a chimney cap, it’s important to first inspect your flue and determine its shape and size. Take a precise measurement of the flue –– otherwise you could end up buying a chimney cap that doesn’t fit at all!
Types of Chimney Covers
All chimney covers are made of some form of metal –– typically steel, aluminum, or copper. In broad terms, copper chimney caps tend to be the most durable, (but the most expensive); aluminum caps are cheap, but can be prone to bending; and stainless steel caps are generally the most balanced option of the three.
Chimney Cap Installation
Chimney cap installation may be extremely straightforward or rather tricky, depending on the cap and the flue. Some caps require screws or bolts to be placed into either the flue or the crown (the small area around the flue at the top of the chimney). Conversely, other chimney caps simply “slip on” within a chimney flue. Often, the size, quality, and specifications of a chimney cap will determine how complicated installation proves.
Chimney Cover Prices
As we’ve explained above, chimney covers come in all shapes and sizes, are made of various materials, and require different levels of installation. Perhaps unsurprisingly, chimney cover prices vary wildly as a result. For instance, you can get some very inexpensive chimney caps for as low as $120. On the other end of the spectrum, specialized chimney caps can go for as high as $2,000. What type of chimney cover you eventually decide to buy should reflect what you want from it. Do you want one that’s extremely durable or are you comfortable replacing it in a few years? Do you want one that matches your home’s exterior design or is that not a priority? It’s important to answer these questions first before you break out your checkbook.
A Word from The Pros
Researching, buying, and installing a chimney cover all on your own can be a daunting task. Thankfully, when you contact the professionals at Brickworks, we’ll be happy to help you find the perfect chimney cap for your home. We have years of experience working with homeowners to find brick and masonry solutions, and we handle all varieties of chimney repair, maintenance, and service. Contact our team here at (586) 330-4843 to learn more!
How Long Does Tuckpointing Last?
Lasting value is the key to any home-repair service. After all, no homeowner wants to constantly dip into their savings to cover home-maintenance costs. And that’s not to mention the hassle of dealing with crumbling bricks or damaged facades year in and year out. That’s why it’s important to determine how long certain services will last. Thankfully, tuckpointing –– the process of replacing damaged or eroded mortar in between bricks –– is a highly effective way to ensure the structural integrity of a home. To address today’s titular question: how long does tuckpointing last? In general, tuckpointing on a new brick building will last for about 25 years. There are a number of factors that can affect this estimate one way or another, and we’ll explore them here:
Climate
Moisture is the enemy of all brick buildings. Bricks are very solid, but they’re also porous, which means water can enter through their surface and eventually cause damage. Naturally, areas that receive a lot of rainfall are more susceptible to brick damage. Furthermore, an improper drainage system (including pipes underneath your home) could work to undermine your home’s brick exterior.
Tuckpointing vs Repointing
There are two distinct types of tuckpointing. The first, known as “repointing” or “spot” tuckpointing involves replacing the mortar only on a specific area of a brick wall. A full tuckpointing project, conversely, covers the entire brick wall. Repointing is perfect, then, for fixing small areas in your exterior that have been affected by the weather or other external force. By repointing strategically every now and again, homeowners can avoid potentially costly repairs.
Quality of Installation
Tuckpointing is a relatively straightforward process and you can do it yourself if so inclined. (To learn the basics of tuckpointing, click here.) However, it’s important to realize that the quality of installation will affect the value of the repairs. Amateurs who have little-to-no experience tuckpointing may be unable to do little more than supply a “band-aid” for a crumbling exterior. What’s more, homeowners should beware cut-rate contractors who use cheap mortar or shoddy tools. Slapdash brickwork will likely need to be corrected soon to prevent further deterioration.
What Happens if I Wait Too Long?
While tuckpointing is an inexpensive and efficient way to prolong the integrity of your brick home, other brick repair methods can be much more substantial. Indeed, bricks can last up to a hundred years if well-maintained, but if you notice bricks in your wall coming loose from their mortar joints, then it may be too late to tuckpoint. Instead, you could be facing a much more arduous task such as a total rebuild or brick replacement.
Final Thoughts
Brick homes –– like any other investment –– require upkeep to retain their value and appearance. The good news is that tuckpointing is a simple fix to many potential problems. Remember, don’t take your chances with just any brick repair service, though. Rather, contact the pros at Brickworks for all your tuckpointing needs. Our team has years of real-world experience, and we only use the highest quality products and tools. If you want the job done right, then call us today at (586) 330-4843.
6 Signs You May Need Chimney Repair Help
As we’ve covered before, chimney fires can cause massive amounts of damage to a home. And it goes without saying that they also can be incredibly dangerous. However, chimney fires are just one problem that can affect a chimney. Indeed, you may need chimney repair help now and not even realize it. In order to protect your family in your home, make sure to keep an eye out for these six signs that could indicate you’ve got a problem with your chimney:
#1 Damaged Mortar Joints
It’s easy to miss damaged mortar joints on your chimney, but anything that upsets the structure of the chimney could affect its performance and the overall stability of your home. Cracked, worn, or faded mortar joints require tuckpointing to restore. On the plus side, you can check out this blog to learn everything you need to know about tuckpointing.
#2 Spalling Bricks
Bricks that are cracked, coming loose, or “caved in” are usually a sign of some form of structural defect. Obviously, you don’t want your chimney leaning one way or another; so take action to prevent it by replacing or repairing spalling bricks as necessary.
#3 Cracked Tiles
The tiles around your chimney’s base should be solid and secure. As such, noticing any cracks in the tiles around your chimney is typically a harbinger of worse issues down the road.
#4 Moisture Issues
Water is the enemy of brick fixtures everywhere. Though bricks are extremely durable, they are also porous, which means that water can enter through them. Unfortunately, this means brick chimneys are vulnerable to excessive moisture. Some signs that moisture is affecting your chimney's performance include:
- Rusted dampers or rust on metal chimney appendages.
- Efflorescence –– a white stain left on bricks as a by-product of water damage.
- Bowed walls around the chimney. In addition, water may affect wallpaper on walls adjacent to a chimney.
#5 Damaged Chimney Cap
Chimney caps are vital because they ensure proper ventilation and prevent animals from nesting within your chimney. If your cap has been removed or compromised in any way, make sure to replace it quickly.
#6 Excessive Smoke
Thick, black, billowing smoke coming from your chimney is –– obviously –– not a welcome sight. The bad news here is that excessive smoke is often the result of a chimney fire. Often, creosote will build up within the chimney after long periods of time and contribute to these dangerous fires. If you experience heavy black smoke coming from your chimney, exit the house and take all necessary precautions to protect yourself.
Schedule an Inspection Today
The best way to handle chimney repairs is to be proactive and avoid them in the first place. Thankfully, just by scheduling regular maintenance and inspections, you can prevent many of the issues that commonly plague chimneys. While chimney fires happen most often during the winter, chimney damage can come about at any time. So if you’re concerned about a set of spalling bricks or a busted chimney cap, then contact the professionals at Brickworks today. We’ll be happy to address your problem, and we’ll work with you to find the best solution possible. Don’t wait another minute –– call today at (586) 330-4843.
How to Vet Foundation Repair Companies For Your Project
Homeowners who are in the unenviable position of needing help with their foundation obviously want to find a solution to their problem ASAP. Unfortunately, many individuals may not know the extent of their own foundational damage. Or, they may not know what questions they should ask foundation repair professionals. As such, finding a reliable foundation repair company can be extremely difficult. Here, we’ll explain how to vet foundation repair companies for your project to ensure that you end up partnering with a business you can trust.
Read Consumer Reviews
Unbiased reviews are a great informational source for consumers looking to learn more about a home repair business. After all, how a company treated its customers in the past is a pretty solid indication of how they’ll treat you now. Sure, most businesses will have the odd negative review here or there. But if a company has a rash of poor ratings online, it may be wise to look elsewhere for help.
Ask About Long-Term Assistance
In most instances, foundation problems will require a good deal of work to fix. Sadly, some contractors look for the most expedient solution to a problem –– not the best one. Subsequently, homeowners are then forced to call for further help down the line when more issues crop up. Ask any prospective foundation repair company if they provide a satisfaction guarantee and if they back up their work with a warranty. Furthermore, inquire if they’re able to handle different kinds of home-repair projects. Just because they reset a sagging foundation, doesn’t mean they’ve addressed all of your home’s issues.
Compare Value –– Not Price
When it comes to big projects like foundation repair –– most of the time –– you get what you pay for. Businesses that boast the lowest prices may not deliver the same quality service as their competitors. Be sure to judge a foundation-repair service by the value it can offer and not just the “sticker price.” Remember, a shoddy repair job can wind up costing you thousands of dollars in further maintenance down the line. Don’t rush this decision!
Trust in Experience
Let’s face it: there’s no substitute for hard-earned field experience. The best foundation repair companies stand the test of time and win over their customers with hard work and dedication. Though some organizations look to cut costs by hiring inexperienced sub-contractors, the best brick-repair specialists only employ certified pros. Lastly, it’s important to find a contractor who understands your region and the weather conditions you face. Home-repair projects in Michigan are quite a bit different from those in Arizona, for instance.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to foundation repair, it’s more important to get the job done right than to get it done on the cheap. Yes, the best contractors should be able to offer competitive prices and finish a project quickly, but trust us, quality service matters much more than a quick-fix in the long run. At Brickworks, we never hire subcontractors and we only use the best tools and materials available on the market. Plus, we offer a variety of brick-repair services, which means that when we take on a project, we won’t stop until it’s done and you’re satisfied. Call us today for an inspection at (586) 330-4920.
The First 5 Things To Do After A Chimney Fire Occurs
Chimney fires are a serious threat to homeowners, and they shouldn’t be taken lightly. In addition to the millions of dollars in property damage chimney fires cause every year, they are also incredibly dangerous. With that in mind, all homeowners who have and regularly use their fireplace should understand some basic chimney-fire safety tips. Here are the first five things you should do in the case of a chimney fire:
#1 Ensure Safety
It’s most important to protect your family and yourself in the event of a fire. So rather than trying to put out the fire, alert everyone in the home and exit in an orderly fashion. Chimney fires may stay contained within a chimney –– or they may spread to the rest of the house. Regardless, your first action should be to get out of the house. From there, call the fire department. If possible, it may be a wise idea to close the damper on the fireplace to “smother” the chimney fire. (No oxygen, no fire.) However, don’t put yourself in danger by attempting to close a damper or put the fire out yourself. Safety is the first priority!
#2 Hose Down Your Roof
Chimney fires are most dangerous when they spread to your roof, so if you notice the tell-tale signs of a chimney fire like dense, black smoke or a loud, train-like sound emanating from your fireplace, go outside and spray water on the areas around your chimney. And remember, once you're outside, stay there until help arrives.
#3 Inspect the Damage
Only begin to inspect your chimney after the fire has completely gone out. At that point, look for damage in the interior and on the exterior of your chimney. Some chimney fires may also cause damage on the roof. Furthermore, you should keep an eye out for creosote build-ups within your chimney. More often than not, this sticky, flammable substance is the cause of a chimney fire.
#4 Call a Professional
All chimney fires happen for a reason –– so don’t use your chimney after a fire! Instead, call a professional first to inspect your home and your chimney. They’ll be able to 1) diagnose the problem that started the fire and 2) clean/repair it. It’s a wise idea to schedule regular chimney inspections annually, but it’s absolutely imperative to talk to a professional in the wake of a fire. Otherwise, you could put you, your family, and your home at risk again!
#5 Practice Fireplace Safety in the Future
Thousands of chimney fires happen every year, and, in some instances, homeowners may not even be aware that they’ve had a fire. Certain fires are slow-burning and self-contained, but they can still cause a great deal of damage to your home. That’s why it’s important to always follow basic fireplace safety procedures. Properly cleaning your fireplace and scheduling regular inspections will help you avoid dangerous fires. For a more in-depth look at how you can prevent chimney fires, check out our blog here.
To Wrap Up
Chimney fires are an unpleasant, but all-too-common occurrence. Fortunately, when you partner with a company like Brickworks, you can rest easy knowing you’ll receive the best possible masonry service. We handle a wide variety of brick and stone projects, and we’ll help you return your chimney to its former condition after a fire. Call us today at (586) 330-4920 to get started!