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Don’t Ignore These Common Signs of Chimney Damage!
Chimneys eventually need ongoing upkeep and repair, and experts say that common signs of chimney damage should not be ignored. Moisture comes against chimneys in numerous ways. If water seeps into the masonry system, gradual destruction of the bricks begins in wintertime. The chimney will eventually begin to lean and could collapse. Chimney maintenance costs are far more affordable than partial and complete chimney rebuilds. Keep watch for the following common signs of chimney damage that need immediate attention from a qualified chimney sweep.
White Stains
You may have seen white stains on your chimney and thought, no problem, they would be easy to scrub away, and that’s true. What many homeowners don’t realize is that those white stains are known as “efflorescence.” They are evidence that moisture is inside the chimney masonry system. What has happened is that water has mixed with water-soluble salt—not all masonry contains salt, however. The saltwater travels through the brick and is deposited onto the brick face, where it leaves white residue.
Spalling
Like efflorescence, spalling is evidence of moisture in the chimney system. Spalling is when the brick face flakes and chips off, and you can see debris around the chimney or on the ground below. Besides giving evidence of moisture intrusion, spalling is proof that a partial or complete masonry chimney rebuild is needed sooner rather than later since the destruction of the masonry is already in progress.
Deteriorating Mortar Joints
Mortar doesn’t last a century like masonry usually does. After about 25 years, at most, mortar begins to flake and break off. This leaves the masonry vulnerable to water intrusion. If you catch the problem early enough to prevent water from getting into the masonry system, chimney sweeps can perform a procedure known as “tuckpointing.” In simple terms, this involves removing old mortar and replacing it with new mortar. Once tuckpointing is completed, the structure is strengthened to
like-new condition.
Many chimney experts recommend scheduling waterproofing of a chimney, as an extra line of defense against moisture intrusion. But waterproofing should only be performed on a chimney when the masonry is moisture-free.
Flashing Damage
If the metal flashing on your chimney has pulled away from the brick or if a chimney leak has occurred because of a rusty nail, it’s possible the masonry behind the flashing has been damaged by moisture. Chimney leaks and roof leaks caused by flashing are common issues and it’s largely because flashing is notoriously difficult to install correctly. High winds during storms can also damage the flashing. The attention of a chimney sweep is needed without delay anytime the flashing is damaged.
Contact Dubuque Fireplace & Patio Today
Chimney damage is oftentimes not apparent to the untrained eye. The NFI-certified chimney sweeps at Dubuque Fireplace & Patio have the training and experience to recognize and repair chimney damage. Schedule annual chimney inspections to avoid widespread chimney moisture intrusion and the destructive process it causes. Visit our showroom or call Dubuque Fireplace & Patio today at (563) 582-5156. If you live nearer Highland WI, call our sister store, Chimney Specialists Inc., at (608) 929-4887.
