While some fireplaces or wood-burning stoves are just for show, others are still used to help heat the home in the winter or to create the right mood in the room. Working fireplaces and wood-burning stoves rely on gas, wood, or pellets to operate as the fumes go up the chimney to be released outside. If there are any problems with the chimney, it could send the smoke and fumes back into the home and lower your air quality. Other issues could create a fire risk to the home. Here are four chimney repairs to look out for to prevent serious issues:
Flue Cracks
Most chimneys are made of brick. Inside the chimney is a duct called a flue that is typically made from stainless steel, aluminum, or clay flue tile. They function as a liner to direct smoke and fumes out of the home. Keep in mind that some chimneys may not have these liners. If there is a crack in the flue, it cannot create a proper draft to let in combustible air to the fireplace or wood-burning stove. Flue cracks may also allow heat to reach more combustible materials in the home to cause a fire.
Blockages
Blockages in the chimney can be created from a variety of materials. Leaves, animal nests, and debris may block the flue during the seasons when the chimney is in use. Be aware that blockages can happen even when using the fireplace or wood-burning stove on a regular basis. When using wood as a combustible material, tar and carbon from the burned wood cools and collect on the lining of the flue. This material is called creosote.
The creosote can block the chimney to force the fumes and smoke back into the home. These fumes are carbon monoxide, which could be deadly. Creosote is also highly flammable. A chimney fire can occur when the creosote catches fire from the high temperatures and flames.
Brickwork Issues
Professionally installed brickwork may last for centuries. However, missing mortar can cause the brickwork to shift. This issue could lead to a partial or total chimney collapse or cracked bricks and mortar which allow water to enter. Depending on the size of the crack, pests could enter and build nests inside.
Damaged Chimney Crown or Cap
The chimney crown or cap prevents rain and other moisture from entering. However, if either one is damaged, moisture may enter. This moisture may cool down the fumes and smoke to create more creosote that collects and builds on surfaces.
If you notice any of these issues, you should get immediate chimney repairs. Here at Brandstetter’s KangaRoof, we offer chimney and roof repairs to homes throughout the greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky, and Eastern Indiana areas. Contact us today.
