If there is a chimney in your apartment, home, or cabin and you are clueless as to when it may need maintenance or repair and are not familiar with the clues that it may require restoration, do not fret, we are leaders in chimney inspections, chimney restoration and chimney repair in Downers Grove. Beyond that we can expertly teach you what to look out for to know if your chimney requires service.
1. Flawed Mortar Joints
If your brick chimney’s mortar joints are defective, it is essential to undergo the masonry repair process before too long as it is possible that large amounts of moisture and water drips concentrate in that area, which can threaten the structural integrity of the brickwork causing it to deteriorate faster and potentially collapse.
2. Rusted Firebox or Damper
When using your fireplace, you may realize that it is not functioning optimally due to rust, meaning there is a surplus of humidity in the damper and firebox areas. If you notice this sign, calling a professional contractor is the best course of action and failing to do so may lead to issues in other areas of the chimney like the tile and cladding, even so far as to potentially trigger a deadly fire if not addressed in time.
3. Spalling Bricks
Spalling is a wonder that occurs when water leaks and salt formations cause the natural rocks, the brick, or the concrete to slowly separate until they detach completely, triggering the inevitable collapse of the entire structure. It is best averted no matter what it takes. Luckily, with proper observation, the signs pointing to the issue are naturally observed by way of professional chimney inspection and can be fixed with chimney tuckpointing.
4. Cracked Chimney Crown
Chimney crown repair Downers Grove residents trust involves crucial procedures, as the crown is an essential element that protects the chimney itself from severe weather. If the repairs are not done relatively promptly, the structure may continue to deteriorate to a detrimental point. For this reason, the best plan of action is to undergo masonry repair and to recondition the chimney structure itself to ensure it can stand up to extreme weather conditions.
5. Wallpaper Damage
If you observe your home’s wallpaper has changed in some way in the area near the fireplace, contact your contractor in Downers Grove for an immediate chimney inspection and repair to follow, if needed, as it may be caused by moisture build-up.
6. Chimney Flashing
If you discover leaks outside or inside the chimney, and additionally water spots in areas near it, your chimney flashing could potentially urgently need repairs. With its role of providing a waterproof seal to your home’s chimney and roof in order to protect both from water damage, professional assistance is needed to fix the chimney flashing correctly and ensure it will continue to provide protection for many more years.
If your chimney is showing any of these signs, do not wait to get in touch with us. We will happily help you fix it!