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3 Types of Chimney Damage Caused by Moisture

There are many potential problems that can arise with a chimney, and water is one of the major causes of costly troubles.  Besides the fact that an annual chimney inspection is recommended as a basic safety measure, another reason an inspection by a professional chimney sweep is important is so that moisture problems can be identified before they do extensive damage.

Spalling

Spalling is more than an aesthetic issue.  Bricks can become useless as structural components if there is enough breakage that the bricks no longer offer support.  Watch for exterior damage to your chimney, such as bits of brick around the chimney base, to avoid the need for expensive masonry repairs.

Solution:  While a chimney can’t be 100% waterproofed, you can add an extra layer of protection to your chimney’s exterior by getting it so-called “waterproofed.”  Give us a call and one of our chimney professionals will add a water repellant treatment to your chimney, which will help to prevent spalling.  While it provides protection which prevents water from seeping into the interior of the chimney, the treatment still allows the moisture which seeps inside the bricks to escape.

Damaged Mortar

Repeated cycles of freezing and thawing can damage the mortar between the bricks on the chimney.  Damaged mortar leads to deterioration of the bricks, including causing larDamaged Mortarge cracks.

Solution:  Fresh mortar can be used to correct the mortar damage caused by moisture.  Our chimney professionals have special tools to perform a process called “tuckpointing,” during which damaged bricks are also removed and replaced.  Tuckpointing is an effective solution which is performed in such a way that the repaired area blends in with areas which don’t need attention.  The process also ensures that the joints between the bricks are strong and water-resistant, in addition to preventing the need for costly future repairs.

Having your chimney cleaned by a professional is an important aspect of caring for your home. You can make an appointment below. Our professional team can provide you with the most effective and efficient chimney cleaning service. So best of all is to get your chimney cleaning service from the most professional chimney sweeps and enjoy a trouble free fireplace this year.