Winter Chimney Risks to Look Out For

Enjoy your fireplace in winter, of course, while not forgetting that there are winter chimney risks to be on the lookout for. Similar to the way the dry air in winter can make our skin dry and chapped, chimneys can suffer many ill effects of the season. When it is freezing outside, untold damage could destroy your chimney masonry. If you have not scheduled an annual chimney inspection, using your fireplace is a potentially severe threat. Read on to learn more about some of the many possible winter chimney risks.

Chimney Blockage

It is very risky to use a fireplace when the chimney has not been checked for potential blockage. Obstructions in chimneys are common and dangerous. When combustion gases cannot escape through the chimney, they naturally pour into the home. Whatever the blockage is, it is important, first of all, to understand why it is hazardous when the chimney draft does not work properly. Deadly carbon monoxide (CO) is among the gases released by any type of solid fuel combustion. Secondly, if the blockage in the chimney is combustible and catches fire, a chimney fire could lead to a life-threatening house fire.

The following are common types of chimney blockage:

• Creosote buildup
• Debris such as leaves and twigs
• Broken bits of deteriorating masonry
• Animals and their nests

Freezing and Thawing

Has water penetrated your masonry system? If so, an irreversible process of masonry destruction gets underway upon the arrival of the first freeze in winter, together with the subsequent thawing. Freezing and thawing cycles cause the water within the masonry to expand and contract. The movement of the water breaks down the composition of the masonry.

If bricks affected by freezing and thawing are not replaced, the chimney will eventually start leaning and may fully collapse.

Chimney Leaks

During exposure to the harsh elements associated with winter, all sorts of damage could be occurring. A common issue that chimney sweeps are frequently called upon to repair is a leaky chimney. The help of a professional chimney sweep is needed to fix a leaky chimney, as well as identify problems before damage is extensive.

The chimney crown, for instance, could have deteriorated, allowing rain and other types of precipitation to infiltrate the masonry system. Chimney flashing is often the culprit when a chimney is leaky. Chimney flashing is difficult to correctly install. Flashing is also prone to damage as a result of high winds, stormy weather, and rusting of the metal components. A chimney leak could also be caused by deterioration of the mortar.

Contact Dubuque Fire & Patio to Resolve Winter Chimney Risks

Contact the qualified NFI-certified chimney sweeps at Dubuque Fire & Patio for chimney and fireplace maintenance and repair. We can help put your mind at ease by eliminating winter chimney risks that exist. If you live closer to the Highland WI area, contact our sister store, Chimney Specialists Inc., at (608) 929-4887.