Learning About Exterior Home Design

Fireplaces can create a relaxed and inviting ambiance. They are also an excellent option for heating homes. Wood-burning fireplaces have chimneys that ensure safe ventilation. The chimneys must be maintained and should be routinely checked for defects and cleaned to remove flammable creosote buildup. 

Individuals whose homes are in need of chimney repairs should not take chances using their fireplaces even if they feel it requires minor repairs. If a fireplace and chimney have not been inspected, the system should not be used because homeowners are unlikely to know if the system is damaged. The following points identify a few signs that chimney repairs are needed.

Cracked Mortar Joints

The mortar between the bricks of a chimney gradually deteriorates due to exposure to the elements and temperature fluctuations. The water from snow, ice, and rain can saturate mortar which causes the joints to crack. Intact mortar joints ensure the stability of the chimney. If they have cracks, chimneys are prone to succumbing to the weight of the bricks. This will create an unsafe situation. Technicians can fill cracks as a part of chimney repair. Extensive deterioration will require a more aggressive repair approach.

Cracked Crown

The chimney crown is located at the top of the chimney. It serves an important role in the fireplace system because it's designed to protect the chimney's bricks from elemental damage. If a crown is cracked, it cannot provide the best protection, which can lead to damage to the bricks. Homeowners who do not address cracked chimney crown issues will have other damages develop. Water from precipitation may leak into the chimney, which can cause issues such as moisture intrusion into the home and poor fireplace performance.

Spalling Bricks

Water exposure is a significant threat to chimneys. Mortar softens from too much exposure, but the bricks of a chimney may also be compromised by water exposure. Some homeowners mistakenly think that the durability of bricks makes them unlikely to deteriorate. However, when they get saturated with water too often, they will begin to spall. Spalling is categorized by bricks flaking, peeling, crumbling, or shifting out of place. These structural defects are a telltale sign that a chimney repair cannot wait.

A chimney sweep is a good resource to use to learn more about chimney repair. They can make repairs when possible. These professionals can also install new fireplaces and chimneys. Some older fireplace systems have safety issues and may not be compliant with local codes. This would warrant replacing them to ensure legal operation.

Contact a local chimney repair service to learn more.