Problematic Areas a Chimney Inspection Can Uncover

1. Problematic Areas a Chimney Inspection Can Uncover If a chimney inspection is not yet on your annual maintenance list, it should be. Believe it or not, chimney professionals find all kinds of different problems during routine inspections. Here, you will learn about the eight most common issues and the best ways to resolve them. #1 – Creosote Buildup Creosote buildup is the most common issue chimney sweeps find during routine inspections. If you use your fireplace at all, creosote will build up on the inside of your chimney. When too much flammable creosote builds up, it can cause a fire. The consequences can be devastating. You can prevent creosote buildup by having your chimney cleaned annually – or twice a year if you use your fireplace for more than six months a year. #2 – Water Damage Because the top of your chimney is well above the rest of your home, it is a prime target for wind, rain, ice, and snow. All this water will eventually erode the natural brick. What’s more, brick is porous, so it will absorb some of this water. This alone can lead to cracks, chips, and leaks. Professionals can waterproof your chimney to lessen this risk and prevent potential leaks. #3 – Damaged Chimney Cap The chimney cap exists to keep rain, debris, and animals out of your chimney, but still allow combustion gases from the fireplace to escape your home safely. If your chimney cap is damaged, it may not be able to block rain or debris from entering your home, which can lead to water damage. An ineffective chimney cap may also allow for animal infestations. In the worst-case scenario, it might even trap dangerous combustion gases inside your home. Any damage to your chimney cap should be repaired immediately to prevent these issues. #4 – Broken Chimney Crown The chimney crown is typically made of cement and sits at the very top of your chimney. Much like brick, cement is also porous, and it can crack and break as the temperatures outside dip above and below freezing. A broken crown can allow for insect infestations and even water damage, so it should be fixed as soon as possible. Once the crown is repaired, it can be waterproofed to prevent future issues. #5 – Obstructions Chimney obstructions are more common than many people think. Small birds and other animals will often build their nests in chimneys because they are out of sight and away from the weather. Unfortunately, this obstruction could prove dangerous, particularly if the nest is made of flammable material or if the obstruction does not allow combustion gases to escape. Professionals can remove obstructions and install new chimney caps to prevent future obstructions. #6 – Masonry Problems Cracks, chips, and loose bricks are fairly common, particularly in older homes or in cases where the chimney has been neglected. Fortunately, this is one of the common problems that is quite avoidable. All you need to do is have your chimney waterproofed regularly to keep your masonry looking (and protecting) like new. #7 – Flue Damage The flue is the metal lining inside your chimney through which combustion gases travel. In order for it to work as it should, it needs to be free from damage, as smooth as possible, and clean. If your flue is damaged at some point, it

2. could prevent combustion gases from escaping, and this can be deadly. A regular chimney inspection and prompt repairs can prevent this. #8 – Damper Issues Finally, the damper controls the opening in the flue. An open damper allows combustion gases and smoke to escape; a closed damper blocks the opening of the flue during the summer and keeps cooled air inside your home, resulting in less energy consumption. If your damper is damaged, rusty, or caked with mineral deposits from a water leak, it may not function properly. Damper issues can be detected and repaired during routine inspections. As you can see, chimney inspections are critical not only for the sake of your home, but also for your health. Certified professionals look for all of these issues and more during their inspections. It is always in your best interest to complete any recommended repairs right away to prevent structural damage and potential health issues.