Construct This: A Contractor's Blog

A Homeowner's Guide To Chimney Repair

16 January 2023 by Joyce Rivera

As a homeowner, you know that your house will need repairs and general upkeep over time. But what about your chimney? How are you supposed to know if your chimney needs repairs? Here's a guide to everything you need to know about chimney repairs and the benefits of proper maintenance.

Signs Your Chimney Needs Repair

Luckily, your chimney does give a few clues that indicate it needs repairs, including:

• Flue blockage. You may notice smoke billowing out of the chimney or see animals or debris blocking the flue.
• Mortar cracks. You should look for any noticeable mortar gaps, loose brickwork, or crumbling mortar.
• Damaged crown. The crown is the top part of the chimney and is the first line of defense against water damage.
• Rust or corrosion. If you spot rust on your chimney, it's a sign you should call a professional for repairs.

If you notice these issues, it's important to have them addressed immediately, as they can lead to dangerous situations like carbon monoxide poisoning.

Types of Chimney Repair

There are three main types of chimney repair: reporting, tuckpointing, and relining. While they sound similar, each task is quite different.

Tuckpointing

When the mortar between your brickwork starts to look worn, you can add fresh mortar to fill in any small gaps or holes and freshen everything up. This process is called tuckpointing.

Repointing

Repointing, on the other hand, is a more involved procedure. It involves removing all the old mortar between bricks and replacing it with new mortar, essentially rebuilding the chimney. This chimney repair is usually done when you have severe damage in your chimney and is a time-consuming project.

Relining

Another type of chimney repair is relining the flue. Relining the flue involves placing a stainless steel liner inside the chimney to protect it from heat and corrosion and to prevent smoke from entering your home.

Benefits of Chimney Repair

There are many benefits of chimney repairs, including:

• Safety. The most obvious benefit of regular maintenance and repairs on your chimney is safety. Properly maintained chimneys are less likely to pose fire hazards or produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide inside the house.
• Longevity. Regular repairs on your chimney will help it last longer and maintain its structural integrity throughout its lifespan. By keeping up with regular maintenance and repairs on your chimney, you can ensure that it will remain functional for many years to come.

Chimneys require regular maintenance and repair to remain safe and functional. If your chimney needs some deferred maintenance or repairs, talk to a chimney repair expert today. For more information on chimney repair, contact a company near you.

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