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Signs Your Chimney Is In Need of Repairs

Many people make the mistake of taking their chimney for granted.  They assume that the structure is a worry-free part of the house.  Problems do arise, however, and a chimney in need of repair should be tended to as soon as possible.  A damaged chimney is a serious fire hazard.  Below are signs that your chimney may be in need of repair.

Damaged Mortar Joints

It may require a rooftop vantage point to spot, but damaged mortar joints between chimney masonry is an issue which should be hastily repaired.  Failing mortar joints can mean accelerated damage to the chimney, since the condition exposes the bricks to greater amounts of moisture.  When water gets into small cracks in the masonry, they can turn into large cracks, particularly as a result of freezing and thawing.  Ultimately, if the problem isn’t addressed, the chimney could collapse.

Damaged mortar joints between chimney masonry should be repaired quickly.  When the mortar deteriorates, the masonry is exposed to more moisture, which accelerates the deterioration of the entire chimney.  In freezing weather, the added moisture can freeze inside cracks in the masonry.  When moisture thaws and freezes in bricks, rocks, and cement, larger cracks can develop.  The entire chimney could collapse, if the damaged mortar isn’t repaired.

Spalling Bricks

Spalling occurs when water enters brick, natural stone, or concrete and forces the surface of the masonry to pop out, peel off, or flake off.  Sometimes salt also pushes outward from the inside and causes spalling.  It’s fairly simple to spot spalling, since bits of masonry fall from the chimney.  The ultimate outcome of failing to repair spalling masonry is continued crumbling and eventual destruction of the structure.

Spalling is an issue which occurs to the outside of the chimney and can be detected because you see bits of masonry around the bottom of the structure.  When moisture enters masonry, it can force the surface of the brick, concrete, or stone to peel off, pop out, or flake off.  It’s essential to replace damaged masonry to prevent continued crumbling and eventual destruction of the chimney.

Cracked Chimney Crown

Another problem that requires a visit to the rooftop to spot is a damaged chimney crown.  It’s important for the crown to be in good condition, since it provides a first line of defense against outdoor elements.  When the crown is cracked, water gets in and freezes and thaws, causing larger cracks.  A damaged chimney crown allows moisture to seep between the chimney and the liner as well as into the chimney, which can cause shaling and spalling.

As with damaged mortar joints, it will be necessary to go on your roof to spot damage to the chimney crown.  The crown is an important part of the chimney structure, providing a first line of defense against harsh weather conditions.  If the crown is cracked, moisture could seep in and create larger cracks.  A damaged crown means that water can seep between the chimney and the flue lining, which could cause spalling and shaling.  The best defense against this type of damage is to weatherproof the chimney crown.

Efflorescence or White Staining

White discoloration on a chimney is called efflorescence.  While it’s fairly simple to remove the staining, cleaning it doesn’t solve the moisture problem which causes the white residue.  Efflorescence is a clear indication of excess moisture in the masonry.  If it isn’t dealt with, premature deterioration of the chimney will likely occur, in addition to other potential problems related to moisture.

Crumbling or Cracked Brick & Mortar

Crumbling or cracked brick and mortar joints on the exterior of your chimney is a sign that your chimney needs some help.  These cracks and crumbling can be caused by a variety of factors, including water damage, freeze-thaw cycles, and general wear and tear.  Water that seeps into the brick and mortar of your chimney can cause major damage when it freezes and expands, leading to spalling of the brick surfaces.  Additionally, when water penetrates the chimney, it can cause the masonry to weaken and crack over time. This can lead to serious structural issues if left unrepaired.

A chimney brick sealer can be applied to the exterior of the chimney to prevent water from penetrating the brick and mortar and protect it from further damage. Additionally, a penetrating sealer can also help to strengthen and stabilize the existing brick and mortar, making it more resistant to cracking and crumbling. If the cracking and crumbling are severe, chimney repair (e.g repointing mortar, brick replacement) should be done before applying the chimney sealer.

Contact our professionals if you notice any of the above-mentioned signs of chimney damage.