Summer Storm Damage

Grilling hamburgers and hot dogs on a warm, sunny afternoon in Dubuque can change quickly when fast-moving storms roll in, casting a gloomy shadow over your outdoor kitchen. While we often think of winter’s icy grip as the primary threat to our homes, summer’s powerful storms—from torrential downpours to fierce Derechos—can inflict significant and often unseen damage to homes and chimneys throughout the Tri-State region.

Summer Storms And Your Chimney

Despite its strength and longevity, your chimney is surprisingly susceptible to the relentless forces of summer storms. These rapidly moving thunderstorms can be intense, especially in the Northern

Plains. They are often accompanied by gale-force winds, heavy rainfall, lightning, and hail. They can cause significant damage to your chimney in several ways, highlighting the urgent need for attention.

Water Intrusion

Heavy rain from these thunderstorms can exploit even the tiniest cracks in your chimney’s masonry or a compromised crown from the previous winter’s freeze-thaw cycle. Once water penetrates, it can saturate the bricks and mortar. This intrusion is particularly problematic in our climate, as repeated freeze-thaw cycles in the coming winter will cause this trapped moisture to expand and contract further, leading to larger cracks and spalling.

Damaged Chimney Caps

Strong winds, common in summer, especially with Derechos, can wreak havoc on your chimney. Fierce winds can rip caps off the top, exposing the flue, liner, and damper to the storm.

Loose or Missing Bricks

These torrential downpours can also provide the additional moisture needed to loosen or even dislodge compromised bricks, further weakening the chimney’s structural stability.

Chimney Collapse

High winds and Derechos that often accompany summer storms can lead to partial or complete chimney collapse, particularly with older or already weakened chimneys. This potential for collapse underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for immediate action.

Lightning Strikes

Lightning is becoming increasingly common in the tri-state area, as Iowa and Illinois are now among the ten states with the most lightning strikes due to exceptionally turbulent storms. A direct lightning strike can cause catastrophic damage, shattering the masonry crown, melting metal components, and even igniting creosote buildup or nearby combustible materials. This growing threat of lightning strikes should not be underestimated.

Why Delaying Repairs is a Costly Gamble

Take your chances gambling at the casino, not at home with your chimney. We understand that putting off chimney inspections and repairs may be tempting. However, ignoring summer storm damage is a perilous gamble. What may seem like a minor crack now can become a significant, expensive structural issue when winter’s frost and freezing temperatures arrive. There may also be “hidden” damage, like chimney liner cracks.

Compromised chimneys can lead to:

• Safety Hazards: An unstable chimney increases the fire risk and allows toxic carbon monoxide fumes to leak into your home. It can also collapse, resulting in extensive property damage to your home.
• Reduced Heating Efficiency: Cracks and gaps can diminish your chimney’s ability to draw correctly, leading to inefficient heating, more flammable creosote buildup, and higher energy bills.
• Masonry Damage: Minor masonry damage will only worsen with time and exposure to the elements, leading to more extensive and costly repairs later.

Let Us Handle Your Summer Storm Damage Repair in the Tri-State

Don’t wait until the wrath of winter returns. At Dubuque Fireplace and Patio, we have over five decades of experience serving the tri-state area (Northeast Iowa, Northwest Illinois, and Southwest Wisconsin) with superior chimney repairs from summer storm damage. Our highly trained chimney sweeps and skilled masonry professionals handle any storm-related damage, from minor mortar repairs to complete chimney rebuilds. We pride ourselves on doing the job quickly and efficiently, with minimal disruption to your home. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. Financing available.