5 Signs You Need to Get Your Chimney Repaired
Winter is fast approaching, and with the coldest season of the year just around the corner, Minnesota residents should inspect and get their homes ready. One of the most used structures in the house during winter is the chimney. Though we all understand how important a chimney is, unfortunately, it is also one of the most neglected. If you take your chimney for granted, it can actually be a fire and a health hazard.
So if you think that a simple chimney sweep is all you need to keep your chimney in top-notch condition, you’d better think again. Garlock-French Corporation, the most reliable when it comes to roofing in Minneapolis, lists these signs your chimney needs repair:
1. Mortar Damage Between Bricks
If you see mortar between bricks deteriorating (cracks, missing bricks and mortar, etc.), this means that your chimney may either be old or poorly constructed and needs to be fixed immediately. Mortar holds the bricks together, and when mortar is damaged, the whole structure’s stability may be compromised. This will put the safety of both your family and your property at great risk.
2. Shaling and Spalling Bricks
Spalling happens when water seeps through bricks and forces the surface of the masonry to flake off, peel off, or pop out. You can easily spot spalling by checking to see if there are bits of masonry falling from the chimney. This means that the masonry is crumbling and water is leaking through mortar and bricks.
3. Smoke Filtering Inside Your Home
A chimney liner protects the interiors of your home as well as the chimney walls from the hazards of smoke and other toxic fumes that may come from log fires. Liners are intended to contain the combustion products, direct them outside, and guard the chimney walls from corrosion and heat. If the liner is damaged, smoke may trickle inside your home and cause various health risks to you and your family. If you smell or even see smoke filtering inside your home, it is highly recommended that you get a professional to inspect the liners and get them fixed if necessary.
4. Cracks in the Chimney Crown
The crown is the part of the chimney that keeps the whole structure protected from rainwater. It also protects the chimney from shaling or spalling.
5. Leaks in Flashing
The flashing is the part of your roof that is connected to your chimney. It prevents water from seeping inside your home, protecting the ceiling, framing, sheathing, walls, and more from water damage. If you notice some damage on the flashing, it is possible that you need a new one.
If you see any of these signs, you’d better call chimney professionals in Minnesota like us in Garlock-French Corporation immediately. We are not just experts in St. Paul roofing—we also provide services for masonry and chimney care in Minneapolis, Edina, Minnetonka, White Bear Lake, and the surrounding areas. Just give us a call to learn more about our products and services.
