You can’t always tell if you need Mercer County chimney repair services just by looking at your chimney. However, there are a few visible signs that repair may be needed. Since chimney safety is goes hand-in-hand with fire hazards, it’s crucial to become familiar with telltale signs of damage.
Signs You Need Mercer County Chimney 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 handled ASAP. 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.
Rusted Damper or Firebox:
Signs of moisture in a chimney or fireplace are red flags that the chimney isn’t operating the way it should. Rust is one clue that there is too much moisture, and you may see rust in the firebox or on the damper. You’ll know to take a close look at the damper if it becomes difficult to operate or if it isn’t sealing properly. Moisture in the chimney causes rusting that can create numerous problems, including causing flue tiles to crack. A cracked or deteriorated flue lining is highly dangerous, since it could allow too much heat into vulnerable areas and cause a house fire.
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 get Mercer County chimney repair for this issue is continued crumbling and eventual destruction of the structure.
Shaling Flue Tiles:
Thin slices of chimney tile can begin to pile up at the bottom of the chimney, if the liner is damaged. Cracked and shaling flue tiles are signs of a serious condition which, if not resolved, could result in a house fire. The flue lining of a chimney must be intact in order to safely use a fireplace. Many people today are switching to stainless steel liners, which usually carry lifetime warranties.
While shaling flue tiles can become evident, identifying cracked flue liners often requires an inspection by a professional Mercer County chimney sweep who uses a special camera. The camera can spotlight potential problems in the flue which are difficult if not impossible to see otherwise.
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.
Damaged Wallpaper:
If you notice that the wallpaper is damaged in areas near the chimney, it could be because of excess moisture in the chimney. Whether the moisture problem is caused by the issues above or others that are less obvious, it should be repaired without sooner rather than later.
Looking for the Best Company for Mercer County Chimney Repair?
Looking for the best company for Mercer County chimney repair? Contact St John Chimney Sweeps right away. At St John Chimney Sweeps we offer 100% customer satisfaction. We have been in business for over 15 years, and St John Chimney Sweeps is the only name you need to know for a full-service chimney sweeping and installation in the New Jersey area. Our employees have had extensive training and have earned many certificates that help them do their job with full expertise. We are efficient and provide a full explanation of the work we need to complete. Our licensed and insured company is also a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild. We have been supplying expert sweeps, repairs and installation services to homeowners all across the state of New Jersey. Call us at (609)737-0133 to find out more about our free estimates. Let us take care of all your chimney needs!