From a smoky smell to worn mortar joints, there are many things that can signal your chimney is in disrepair. While many problems are preventable, some problems can get quite expensive if not repaired in a timely manner. Partnering with a trusted chimney repair contractor in Royal Oak MI is the first step. In the meantime, check out these seven top signs that your chimney needs a repair.
1. Foul or Smoky Odor
Creosote, a common by-product of wood combustion, can stick to the flue liner. The more you use your fireplace, the quicker this buildup can occur. As a result, you may notice a foul or smoky odor inside your home, due to a buildup of creosote. However, it’s not just a bad smell you should be worried about.
Creosote can block toxic gases that should be escaping safely through your chimney, leading to poor indoor air quality and the increased chance of fire.
2. Masonry Degradation
This is one of the more common signs that your chimney is in disrepair. Chimney masonry is porous, meaning over time it will absorb moisture. This can lead to mold growth, as well as structural problems such as chipping and shifting. If you have spotted chunks of mortar around the chimney or bricks sliding out of place, you should call a professional masonry contractor in Michigan immediately.
3. Crown Cracks
Your chimney is topped with a crown, which offers a certain aesthetic, but more importantly provides protection against the elements. If the crown is cracked, water can get inside, leading to extensive moisture damage over time. Ask your Metro Detroit masonry contractor if they can waterproof your chimney crown to prevent future water damage, and to prevent further damage spreading to other areas of the exterior.
4. Worn Mortar Joints
Mortar joints hold all the bricks together in your chimney. However, those mortar joints are vulnerable to moisture damage, just like the masonry itself. Moisture accumulation in cracks is concerning, especially where temperature fluctuations are involved. Water can seep in, expand and contract with those fluctuations, and place stress on the chimney masonry, leading to more cracks.
5. Interior Wall Damage
Failure to quickly repair masonry or mortar joint damage can cause water to travel to other areas of your home, such as the walls and ceilings. If you spot discoloration in these areas, chimney leaks could be to blame.
6. Visible Rust
If rust has appeared in your fireplace’s damper or firebox, this is common but not normal. In fact, it means you have a leak coming from somewhere – usually via cracks that have formed inside the chimney.
7. Age
An old chimney is more likely to break down, just like with any of your other exteriors. Regular inspections can help you stay on top of this and mitigate damage due to age. This is especially helpful if you don’t know how old the chimney is. Proper and regular chimney inspections in Michigan are vital to the health of your home.
Request a Free Quote For Chimney Repair From Dennis Robert Masonry
Not sure if you need a chimney repair or replacement? We would be happy to visit your home for a free consultation and quote. Contact us today at +1 (248) 794-0066 or fill out our online form.
