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 586-868-3234.