The Effects of Crumbly Chimney Masonry

Chimney masonry looks stately on traditional homes, but it is highly susceptible to damage caused by moisture as well as everyday wear and tear. Continuous exposure to the outdoor elements only speeds up deterioration unless chimney maintenance is scheduled routinely. The conditions that cause crumbly chimney masonry can be subtle. Professional chimney sweeps performing recommended annual inspections know how to recognize the signs that chimney repair is needed to prevent widespread crumbling of masonry.

Spalling Bricks

The biggest reason masonry structures begin to crumble is that moisture has worked its way into the masonry system. Moisture eventually causes spalling, which is when the brick face begins to flake and pop off, leaving a pile of masonry debris around chimneys outside on the roof or on the ground below.

There are actually many ways moisture can get into the masonry, which is one of the primary reasons chimney inspections are so important. Chimney sweeps can recognize early signs of moisture damage. The following are some of the ways water gets into chimney masonry systems, and all are conditions that can be repaired:

A cracked chimney crown, which chimney professionals can either repair or, as needed, completely replace

Worn mortar, which is the cement-like material between bricks, and tuckpointing (described below) can often fix it

Water on the roof flows against the chimney, inundating it with an excessive amount of moisture with every rainfall, and a feature called a “cricket” can be added to the roof to divert water away from the chimney

Faulty or leaky chimney flashing, which chimney experts can repair or replace

Once moisture gets into the masonry, the freezing and thawing cycles in winter cause the water inside bricks to expand and contract. The movement in the brick results in deterioration and spalling occurs. If nothing is done, the deterioration will spread throughout the masonry and the bricks will break down, causing the chimney to lean. It could eventually collapse completely, creating a dangerous potential hazard and the need for chimney masonry rebuilding.

Tuckpointing

When mortar first begins to deteriorate, a procedure is known as “tuckpointing” can prevent the situation from worsening. In other words, if moisture hasn’t already entered the masonry due to weakened mortar, the procedure

Waterproofing is Recommended

Since crumbly chimney masonry is usually caused by moisture, waterproofing of the chimney is recommended. Chimney professionals should apply the waterproofing material. But, first, it must be established that there has

Call the Pros at Dubuque Fireplace & Patio

Professional chimney sweeps can help you to prevent fireplace & Patio. We also install chimney caps and chimney chase covers, which are essential accessories that provide several benefits, including that they prevent rain and snow from going directly into your chimney liner. Contact us today for any of your chimney needs, including a new fireplace and stove sales and installation. The contact details are below.

Dubuque Fireplace & Patio
925 Century Drive, Dubuque, Iowa
Phone – (563) 582-5156

Chimney Specialists Inc.
869 Main Street, Highland, WI
Phone – (608) 929-4887 / Toll Free (800) 395-6660