Soot, fumes, and smoke aren’t the only signs that your chimney is in need of repair. Learn here about some other problems you need to look out for that could lead to a chimney collapse or even a fire.
Efflorescence
Does your chimney have white staining? This is called efflorescence. These crystalline deposits of salt are often found on concrete, brick, and natural stone surfaces. When it occurs, it’s usually an indicator of a moisture problem. A small amount is common but if the amount is excessive, it’s a reason for concern. In many cases, efflorescence is a sign of a loose flashing or broken flue liner that can lead to rapid brick and mortar deterioration. To prevent the water from entering the chimney, you need a certified chimney technician to either install a new chimney flue or liner or fix the flashing around the crown.
Cracked Chimney Crown
The chimney crown has one major role and that is to prevent water damage. Because it sits on top of the chimney, it’s designed to keep water and snow from entering the structure. But if the crown is cracked or damaged, moisture will make its way in which can cause a number of issues like a rusted damper or broken flue tiles. To find out if your chimney crown is cracked, you need to get up on top of the roof as most damage won’t be visible from the ground. If the crown is broken it’s essential that it is quickly replaced, otherwise, the moisture problem will worsen and cause more damage to the structure.
Spalling Bricks
Are your chimney bricks popping off or cracking? Damaged and lost bricks are another sign of a moisture problem. As the moisture inside the masonry expands and contracts, it slowly deteriorates the structure and causes the bricks to crack, flake, and crumble right off. To address this problem, you need to find out what’s causing it. The first step to treating it is arranging a chimney inspection to find out how the water is getting into the masonry and how bad the problem really is. If significant damage has already been done, the brickwork will likely need to be repaired or entirely replaced.
Rust
Rust can destroy your chimney over time if you don’t remove it, which is why it’s important to have your chimney inspected every year. To look for rust, check the outside of your chimney on the flashing and chimney cap, and then look inside at the firebox, damper, and flue. If you don’t see any, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not there. Most people don’t realize they have a rust problem until something stops working properly like a damper stops sealing or operating normally. If there are enough signs to point to an oxidation problem, it’s best to call a chimney technician. When rust is present, serious damage could be present like a cracked flue tile, but regardless, something will need to be replaced.
Damaged Mortar Joints
Over time, water, ice, and seasonal expansion can cause the mortar joints to weaken. When the mortar starts to deteriorate, the masonry becomes exposed to moisture which leads to more damage. If left untreated, the chimney can breakdown and eventually collapse. To repair the mortar joints, have them pointed by a professional.
Fallen Chimney Tile
If you find a pile of chimney tile in your fireplace, it’s bad news. Fallen tile is usually a sign that the flue lining is damaged. Water damage is often the culprit, but it could also be caused by improper construction and building processes. If left untreated, it will only get worse. The cracks will allow moisture in and can even result in a chimney fire. If you find any tiles where they shouldn’t be, it’s important to fix the damage so that it never happens again.
Pools of Water in Your Fireplace
A pool of water is a telltale sign of a chimney leak. Defective flashing, worn-down mortar, and cracks in the crown are often the cause. Regardless of the source, water can cause tremendous damage to the structure of your home. If you spot any water drips or pools of water in and around the fireplace, it’s time to call in the professionals.
Your fireplace should make you feel cozy and safe, not cause you any concern. If you spot any issues with your chimney call us at GWS Masonry today. Our experts will ensure that your chimney is fully functional and damage-free. We also offer regular chimney inspections, maintenance, and repairs that can to help prevent dangerous fires or water damage from occurring. Call us today to learn more about how we can help!