How to Take Care of the Masonry on Your Chimney

1. How to Take Care of the Masonry on Your Chimney By far, the best way to maintain the bricks and mortar that make up your chimney is by scheduling regular chimney masonry inspection. These inspections provide a lot of insight into any potential issues, and they allow professional, certified technicians to perform timely repairs before too much damage has been done. Here, you’ll learn about some of the best tips and tricks for chimney masonry maintenance and care. Seal the Chimney Crown The chimney crown is the area of the chimney that tops the masonry and creates a seal around the flue pipe. Over time, this cement crown can start to crack and crumble due to freeze and thaw cycles or age. Sealing the crown is important for keeping moisture out of the chimney; if moisture can enter the chimney through cracks or missing bits of the crown, it can damage the structure of your home significantly. Brush-on crown sealer can prevent these issues. Wearing gloves, pick up a handful and wipe it on the crown, forcing it into any cracks and the seam between the crown and the bricks. Waterproof the Masonry Though chimney brick is designed to withstand the elements and can last for many, many decades, water is by far the bricks’ biggest enemy. Water will cause some erosion and deterioration over time, but you can help to prevent this – or at least significantly slow the process – by waterproofing your chimney masonry. Chimney water repellant is relatively inexpensive, and it can be applied to the bricks with a typical garden pump sprayer. You should apply this from the bottom of the chimney up, and you should apply a second coat five minutes after the first for the best possible results. This should be performed once every few years. Install a Quality Chimney Cap If your chimney cap is in disrepair or is not performing as it should, it is in your best interest to purchase and install a better-quality cap. These additions to your chimney are important for keeping rain, snow, ice, and even birds or other animals out of your chimney. Adding a chimney cap will also extend the life of your flue significantly by preventing corrosion and rust. A stainless-steel cap is the best option as it lasts much longer than the traditional galvanized options. It’s easy to install, as well; simply set the cap over the flue liner and screw it down. Use only minimal torque since too much can crack the liner. Schedule Inspections Annually Finally, if you truly want to maintain your chimney, ensure its lifespan, and protect your home from the elements, it is absolutely vital to schedule annual chimney masonry inspection services. Homeowners often schedule these at the same time as their annual chimney cleanings as they give the technicians the opportunity to get a good luck at the structure, both inside and out. If problems are found, the technicians can repair them quickly and easily – long before they require extensive (and expensive) repairs. Chimney masonry inspection is the most important part of maintaining the life of your chimney and fireplace, and it can also prevent damage to your home. Call for your chimney masonry inspection services today so you can enjoy your fireplace all year round with some peace of mind.