Think for a moment about what your chimney deals with. Fire, soot, creosote, rain, snow, sunlight, animals — these important fireplace components endure a lot. Here, the chimney maintenance team at The Chimney Sweep in Kernersville, NCexplainsin the importance of routine repairs and how they prevent a wide variety of chimney problems.

What Chimney Problems Do Routine Repairs & Maintenance Solve?

Cracks & Leaks

In addition to incorrect installation, chimney cracks occur because of water infiltration and other element-related damage. If the chimney flashing sustains damage, for example, it will allow rain and melting snow to penetrate. Water infiltration can also occur because brick and mortar materials take in water and eventually crack from the freeze-thaw cycle. Strong winds loosen the chimney crown as well, resulting in cracks and leaks. Annual maintenance and repair services keep these chimney problems from worsening.

Damaged Flue Liner

Assuming they are installed the right way, flue liners eventually deteriorate from corrosive fire and smoke byproducts. If the lining is the wrong size, creosote will build up at a much faster rate and contribute to premature deterioration. Since there are no obvious signs indicating flue liner deterioration, it is important to schedule routine maintenance to ensure timely replacements.

Spalling

Spalling occurs when the brick and mortar making up your chimney become saturated with moisture. Excessive water content causes the materials to spall, or flake, and subsequently deteriorate. Spalling is more common in areas prone to severe freeze/thaw cycles, on roofs that retain too much water, or if salvaged bricks were used to build the chimney. Schedule repairs as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration and request a chimney cap to avoid serious water infiltration in the future.

Don’t let any of these chimney problems go untreated — make an appointment with the friendly, knowledgeable team at The Chimney Sweep today. Founder Terry Osborne served as a firefighter and Battalion Chief for 30 years before opening his business in 1980. His dedication to fire safety resulted in a full suite of fireplace and chimney maintenance services, including inspections, cleanings, and relinings. Call (336) 993-8999 to schedule service or visit the website for details. Like the Facebook page for more maintenance tips and help.