Chimneys are essential in preventing smoke from getting all over your house. They split fuming toxic exhaust gases or fumes produced by everyday household devices like heaters, cookstoves, heating systems, disposal machines, or fireplaces from your living area, kitchen, and rooms.
Why is chimney repair necessary?
No matter how durable your chimney is, it will still need maintenance and repair from time to time. That is normal. Places or corners in constant use require an inspection to work properly for a long time. Your chimney is not an exception, especially if there are always used during winter.
Cleaning your chimney can help keep fires from starting both inside and outside your home. A chimney fire is disastrous for your property and the properties near you. It can also be extremely risky for you, your family, and your pets.
Creosote is made of unburned gas vapors. It is flammable and expands when heated. Creosote buildup is common in chimneys, the most common cause of vent fires. It is flammable and expands when heated.
Furthermore, rainwater can leak into your home if your chimney is damaged. We all know that moisture can leave a stain on your walls, damage on your foundation, and mold around the house. Mold can cause allergies and attract insects that can harm your health. These insects may thrive inside or outside your house and lead to an infestation when left untreated.
How to tell if your chimney needs repair?
We may fail to recognize the repair needs of our chimneys, especially because we are not really knowledgeable in terms of chimneys. We can call chimney repair Charleston, SC residents trust and ask for an inspection. They can tell what should be done because they are trained, and they are experienced in the field.
Here are the things you may look out for that indicates chimney repair needs.
- White Stains
If you notice white stains around your chimney, you should have it checked. This is known as efflorescence. These are crystalline salt deposits. They are expected on concrete, brick, and natural stone surfaces.
White crystals or efflorescence are associated with moisture. A small amount is normal, but an excessive amount is concerning. Efflorescence is often a sign of a loose flashing or a broken flue liner, which can lead to rapid brick-and-mortar deterioration.
You must keep the waterway from your chimney and install a new chimney flue or liner or repair the flashing around the crown.
- Chimney Crown Damage
Because the crown is your chimney’s first line of defense against various elements, it must be in excellent condition all year round. Small cracks form naturally along the chimney crown over time, so don’t worry too much. You can call repair contractors to fix them for you.
Remember, over time; these cracks can widen, allowing even more water and debris to enter your home or liner. A cracked chimney crown is frequently the initiator of shaling and spalling.
- Excessive Creosote
Creosote is normal in chimneys. It’s the black, tar-like substance you can see inside your flue. This is what the chimney sweeps clean out during your annual sweep. However, you should contact a professional if you notice creosote outside your fireplace.
Too much creosote buildup may imply that your chimney needs repair. It can also cause a chimney fire, as mentioned above.
- Falling Chimney Tiles or Bricks
If you notice chimney tiles in your fireplace, have your chimney inspected immediately. A broken tile usually indicates that the flue lining has been damaged. Water damage is frequently the cause of falling tiles, but it can also be caused by poor construction and building processes. It will only worsen if left untreated. The cracks will allow moisture to enter and may cause a chimney fire.
If you discover any tiles that should not be there, you must repair the damage so that it does not occur again.
All in all, knowing how to detect damage in your chimney can save your property from getting damaged further. You can also save money from bigger repairs you will be preventing.