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Did Winter Weather Damage Your Chimney? Now’s the Time to Find Out

After a hot summer, many homeowners are ready to begin preparing for the winter season. Putting snow tires on the car, buying winter coats for the kids, and storing the patio furniture, is an annual winter ritual for many. Another family pleasure is relaxing in front of a warm fireplace. While many families are enjoying the sights and sounds of a crackling fire, the cold weather outside could be damaging to the chimney. That’s why it’s crucial to inspect your chimney immediately after winter.

Chimney Repairs. Dubuque IAMasonry Damage

During the winter, the masonry is susceptible to damage due to the freeze/thaw effect of a cold, rainy, and snowy season. How does it happen? Bricks and mortar used to construct a chimney are porous materials that soak up moisture like a sponge. When the temperature dips below freezing, the moisture trapped in the bricks freezes, forming ice crystals. The ice crystals expand, causing tiny cracks to form in the masonry. As thawing occurs, additional moisture fills the cracks beginning another damaging freeze and thaw cycle. When these masonry cracks and gaps in the mortar joints go unnoticed, the cracks in the masonry continue to widen. Entire pieces of brick can fall off the chimney, which can destabilize the chimney, ultimately resulting in a complete collapse. After the winter season, a chimney inspection is necessary to detect and repair any spalling bricks and gaps in the mortar joints before it develops into a more extensive and more expensive chimney repair. Once the damaged bricks and mortar are repaired, waterproofing will help protect your chimney from water damage in the future.

Flue Obstructions

When the temperatures are freezing outside, small animals such as birds, rats, squirrels, and raccoons are also looking for a place to stay warm. These pesky critters can climb up a chimney as fast as they climb a tree. An open flue is an inviting place when you’re looking for a warm place to hide your food and escape predators. However, once inside, they start building nests, which can block the venting of dangerous smoke and fumes, causing it to back-up into your home. Also, some small critters will get trapped inside the flue and perish. Decaying organic matter can cause foul odors. If you suspect animals are inside the chimney, don’t attempt to smoke them out. Contact your local chimney professional instead. They will remove the animals safely and humanely.

Chimney Cleaning in Galena ILChimney Inspection and Cleaning

Even if you aren’t planning to use the fireplace after winter, a chimney inspection will uncover any small animals and pests that may have been taking refuge in the flue and repairing any damage they may have caused. Your chimney professional will also recommend installing a chimney cap to help keep unwanted squatters out of the vent all year long. You will also need a professional chimney cleaning to get rid of any debris, creosote, soot, and other dirt accumulating in the flue. It will ensure that your fireplace and chimney will be ready for the next winter season. 

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