Chimneys are strong and secure structures on the exterior of your home, but they can still be susceptible to damage due to age and weather. A fully-operational chimney is vital for the safety and functionality of fueling your home, so you want to take note of any signs of damage. These include visible cracks, crumbling brickwork, or deteriorating mortar. You may also notice your chimney leaning slightly or damage on the chimney’s crown or cap.
Many issues, such as a damaged flue liner, may not be noticeable without an inspection, so make sure you have your chimney cleaned or inspected regularly. Otherwise, gasses may not be able to escape the way they should and they can cause fires or a carbon monoxide buildup. Sometimes, a flue liner will need to be replaced, especially in older homes that have liners made out of clay tiles that are susceptible to shifting or breakage.
When the bricks or mortar of the chimney are cracked or crumbling, it’s called spalling. Spalling can let in water from your roof, which can negatively affect your home’s physical structure. It can also make way for leaks, water damage, and mold growth. Damaged chimneys also compromise your home’s insulation and can let in drafts, causing your home to use more energy to maintain a comfortable temperature. This leads to higher energy bills.
The crown of your chimney sits at the top and protects it from water damage. If the crown itself is cracked, damaged, or out of place, it will let water into your chimney, causing all sorts of problems. Sometimes, the crown can be repaired, and sometimes it will need to be replaced. The sooner a problem is discovered, the easier it will be to fix.
If your chimney is leaning to one side, it can be a serious safety issue. A leaning chimney adds excess stress onto your roof and other nearby structural elements of your home, and can also tear the lining inside. If that happens, smoke from your chimney can leak into your home and can even cause a fire.
If chimney repairs are needed, it’s important to take care of it right away so the damage doesn’t get worse. As long as you are having regular cleanings and inspections, damages will be caught early and be able to be repaired while the issue is still small. This prevents more major issues–including significant safety issues. Our expert team will make sure your chimney is repaired to the highest standards so it works perfectly and your home stays safe and warm.
Regular inspection and maintenance of your chimney will identify potential issues before they escalate into major problems. Chimneys can accumulate creosote, debris, and structural damage, which can pose risks such as chimney fires, carbon monoxide leaks, and smoke damage. By scheduling routine maintenance, you can mitigate these risks and preserve the integrity of your chimney system.
Thank you for considering Ben’s Chimney Repair for all of your chimney needs. We are here to serve you and ensure that your home's chimney remains in top condition. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to inquire about our services. We look forward to becoming your trusted chimney partner in Westchester County.