The Significance of Chimney Cap Repair
The Significance of Chimney Cap Repair Repairing the chimney cap is an important maintenance task for your safety, better life of the chimney and to avoid any inconvenience. Damaged or missed caps can cause several disadvantages such as blockage, debris inside the chimney and the risk of fire which is very dangerous. Regular maintenance can prevent these issues and give your chimney a long life. Why are chimney caps important? Animals Avoidance Animals like birds, raccoons and squirrels can easily enter your chimney which is dangerous and causes blockage but chimney caps help prevent them from entering. Safeguarding Debris Substances such as leaves and other debris can fall into chimneys which cause blockage or fire but chimney caps act as a barrier to them. Spark Stopper Chimney caps with spark arrestor screens work to stop sparks and embers from getting out of your chimney and possibly setting nearby flammable objects on fire. Rain Avoidance Rainwater can be prevented by entering and causing the damage if chimney caps are properly installed and designed. Enhanced Vision If the chimney cap is properly installed, the airflow will be flawless. How to identify if there’s a problem? There are some signs from which you can guess there is a problem. -Water stains around your Chimney -Smoke coming inside the house instead of going out -Animal or debris inside the chimney building nest or staying there. How to prevent the problem? Maintenance is the key. Below are some tips which can be followed: Habitual inspection To make sure it’s in good condition, make it inspected by a professional once a year at least. Minor problems can cause big problems later. Keeping it Tidy Removing any debris, leaves or nest that may be covering the Chimney once a week to keep it clean and tidy. And make sure to keep the cap close. Spark Arrestor Install a cap with spark arrestor which can prevent any sparks and fires and keep the environment safe. Spot Leakage Inspect any water leakage around the chimney frequently, and take serious notice/ steps before it gets worse. Groom Neighboring Trees Any long or messy tree nearby your chimney can be alarming. Make it tidy as soon as possible to prevent debris falling in and making the situation worse frequently. Consulting specialists is better immediately if you notice any changes to avoid any inconvenience. How can a Chimney cap be repaired? There are few ways: -Sealing any patch or hole found on the cap. -Replace if damaged or can not be repaired. -Sometimes reinforcement is necessary to make it stable. Who can repair it? There are special technicians and inspectors who provide chimney cap repair services. They do cleaning, inspecting, repairing and make sure it’s in good condition. They are professional and well trained to keep one’s chimney in best condition. Nowadays there are several online platforms which are offering it too which are easily available and can resolve the problem in a blink of an eye.
Is Your Chimney Ready for Winter? Common Problems You Are Not Ready to Face
In winters, there’s nothing better than curling up by the fire with a warm blanket and a book. However, before you light that fire, you must ensure your chimney is operating correctly. A poorly maintained chimney can cause dangerous situations such as smoke buildup, fire hazards, and even carbon monoxide poisoning. In this article, we’ll discuss the most common chimney problems that can ruin your winter. Here are some of the most common chimney problems you may face this winter: 1. Chimney Blockage: A blocked chimney can cause smoke and other dangerous gases to build up inside your home. Common causes of blockages include bird nests, debris, and creosote buildup. Hiring a professional chimney sweeper to clean the blockage and ensure your chimney works correctly is the best way to fix this problem. 2. Damaged Chimney Liner: The chimney liner is a safety shield between the hot gasses and the outside of your home. If it’s damaged, it can lead to a fire hazard. Common causes of damage include age, weathering, and animal damage. To fix this problem, you’ll need a professional to inspect your chimney and replace the liner if necessary. 3. Cracked Chimney Crown: The chimney crown is the top part of your chimney that helps keep water out. If it’s cracked, water can seep in and cause damage to your chimney and even your home’s foundation. A professional can repair or replace the crown if necessary. 4. Leaky Chimney: A leaky chimney can cause water damage to your home’s interior, chimney, and fireplace. Common causes of leaks include damaged flashing and a damaged chimney cap. A professional can inspect your chimney and repair any damage. 5. Creosote Buildup: Creosote is a flammable substance accumulating in your chimney over time. If it’s not removed, it can lead to a fire hazard. Hiring a professional chimney sweeper to clean the buildup and ensure your chimney works correctly is the best way to fix this problem. 6. Poor Draft: A poor draft can cause smoke to fill your home instead of going out through the chimney. This can happen due to a blockage, damage to the chimney structure, or inadequate insulation. A professional can help assess the problem and provide a solution. 7. Structural Damage: Chimneys can become damaged due to age, weathering, and other factors, leading to structural issues. Structural damage can cause your chimney to lean or collapse, which can be a significant safety hazard. A professional can inspect the chimney and provide recommendations to repair or replace the structure. 8. Inadequate Ventilation: Inadequate ventilation can cause an accumulation of harmful gasses, including carbon monoxide, in your home. This can happen due to a blocked chimney, damaged flue, or other issues. An expert may examine your chimney and recommend improving ventilation and keeping you and your family safe. By knowing about these common chimney problems and how to fix them, you can ensure that your chimney works correctly and safely. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, contact a professional chimney sweep for help.
Why Ignoring Chimney Maintenance is Like Playing with Fire
Your chimney is an important component of your home’s heating system. It provides ventilation for the gases created by burning fuels, such as wood or coal. However, if not properly maintained, your chimney can become a silent threat that can cost you thousands of dollars. With winter approaching, it’s crucial to understand the risks associated with ignoring chimney maintenance and take the necessary steps to prevent them. The Risks of Ignoring Chimney Maintenance Ignoring chimney maintenance can lead to several risks that can be dangerous and costly. Here are some of the risks: 1. Chimney Fires: A dirty chimney can cause a dangerous build-up of creosote, which is a highly flammable substance. Creosote is formed when wood or coal is burned, and it accumulates on the walls of your chimney. If not removed, it can ignite and cause a chimney fire. Chimney fires can cause extensive damage to your home and even be life-threatening. 2. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: A blocked or poorly ventilated chimney can cause carbon monoxide to build up in your home. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is poisonous when inhaled in high concentrations. It can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even death. 3. Structural Damage: A chimney that is not maintained can cause structural damage to your home. Water damage, cracks, and other issues can cause your chimney to collapse or become unstable, which can be costly to repair. 4. Decreased Energy Efficiency: A dirty chimney can decrease the efficiency of your heating system, which can result in higher energy bills. A clean chimney allows your heating system to work more efficiently, which can save you money in the long run. What You Can Do to Avoid the Risks To avoid the risks associated with ignoring chimney maintenance, you need to take some necessary steps. Here are some of the steps you can take: 1. Schedule Regular Inspections: Have your chimney inspected by a professional at least once a year. A professional can identify any potential issues before they become bigger problems. During an inspection, the professional will check for any signs of damage, blockages, or creosote buildup. 2. Clean Your Chimney: Have your chimney cleaned regularly to prevent the build-up of creosote and other debris. A professional chimney sweep can remove any debris from your chimney and ensure that it is safe to use. The frequency of cleaning depends on the type of fuel you use and the frequency of use of your fireplace or stove. 3. Install a Carbon Monoxide Detector: Install a carbon monoxide detector in your home to alert you if carbon monoxide levels become dangerous. Make sure to test the detector regularly and replace the batteries as needed. 4. Fix Structural Issues: If your chimney has any structural issues, such as cracks or water damage, have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Structural issues can compromise the safety of your chimney, and ignoring them can lead to costly repairs or even collapse. 5. Use Your Chimney Correctly: Use your chimney correctly by only burning the appropriate materials and following the manufacturer’s instructions. Burning inappropriate materials can cause excessive creosote buildup and other issues that can be dangerous. Ignoring chimney maintenance is like playing with fire. It can lead to several risks that can be dangerous and costly. Regular inspections, cleaning, and repairs can help prevent these risks and keep your chimney safe to use. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and only burn appropriate materials. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your chimney is safe, efficient, and reliable, providing warmth and comfort to your home during the winter months.
Myth vs. Reality: What You Thought You Knew!
When it comes to home maintenance, your chimney might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But did you know that neglecting your chimney can be dangerous and lead to expensive repairs? Unfortunately, there are many myths surrounding chimneys that can lead homeowners astray. In this article, we’ll debunk some common chimney myths and provide practical information to encourage you to take action and seek professional chimney services. Myth #1: Chimneys Don’t Need Regular Cleaning Many homeowners believe that chimneys don’t need regular cleaning if they’re not used frequently. However, this is far from the truth. Even if you only use your chimney a few times a year, it can still accumulate creosote and other debris that can lead to a fire hazard. In fact, the National Fire Protection Association recommends that chimneys be inspected and cleaned at least once a year to prevent chimney fires. Myth #2: Burning Green Wood Is Good for Your Chimney Some homeowners believe that burning green wood is good for their chimney because it produces less creosote. However, this is another myth that can lead to expensive repairs. Burning green wood can actually lead to more creosote buildup because it doesn’t burn as efficiently as dry wood. In addition, burning green wood can produce more smoke, which can cause more damage to your chimney. Myth #3: Chimneys Are Only a Concern in Winter While it’s true that chimneys are more frequently used in the winter, they are still a concern year-round. In fact, summertime is a great time to schedule a chimney inspection and cleaning because it’s easier to access the chimney and there’s less demand for chimney services. Plus, regular maintenance can prevent problems from developing over time and save you money in the long run. Myth #4: You Can Clean Your Chimney Yourself While it’s possible to clean your chimney yourself, it’s not recommended. Cleaning a chimney involves climbing on your roof and using specialized equipment to remove debris and creosote. This can be dangerous and is best left to professionals who have the proper training and equipment. Attempting to clean your chimney yourself can lead to injury or damage to your chimney. Myth #5: Chimneys Don’t Need Inspections if There Are No Visible Problems Even if your chimney looks fine on the outside, there may be hidden problems that can only be detected through an inspection. For example, there could be a crack in the chimney liner that’s allowing toxic gases to leak into your home. Regular inspections can catch these issues before they become major problems. Myth #6: All Chimney Sweeps Are the Same Not all chimney sweeps are created equal. It’s important to choose a professional who is certified by a reputable organization. A certified chimney sweep will have the knowledge and experience to properly clean and inspect your chimney, and they will be up-to-date on the latest industry standards. In conclusion, there are many myths surrounding chimneys that can lead homeowners astray. Neglecting your chimney can lead to expensive repairs and even put your home and family at risk. Regular maintenance is crucial to the safety and efficiency of your home, and it’s important to seek professional chimney services to ensure that your chimney is in good working order. Don’t wait until it’s too late – schedule a chimney inspection and cleaning today to keep your home safe and warm all year round.
7 Easy Steps To A Safe Chimney
1. Inspection: Here at Brushers Chimneys we will check your chimney for any creosote buildup, blockages, cracks, and any other issues that could compromise your homes and family’s safety. 2. Regular Maintenance of Your Chimney: Our chimney technicians will walk you through all the steps necessary in keeping your chimney safe and answer any questions you may have about your chimney. Make sure your chimney receives regular cleaning and maintenance, especially if you use it frequently. A clean and well-maintained chimney is less likely to pose safety risks. We recommend getting your chimney checked every year. 3. Check for Signs of Any Chimney or Fireplace Damage: Pat of your chimney inspection our technicians will inspect your chimney for any visible signs of damage, such as loose bricks or mortar, water leaks, or signs of creosote buildup, and address any chimney safety issues with you promptly. 4. Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Our team can advise you where to install detectors during your chimney inspection with Brushers Chimneys. For added safety, place carbon monoxide detectors near the fireplace or wood stove and on each floor of your home. This will alert you to any potential carbon monoxide issues before it is too late. 5. Proper Ventilation is key to keeping your Chimney and Fireplace Safe: Brushers Chimneys professional technicians will ensure your chimney is adequately vented to prevent carbon monoxide from building up inside your home. 6. Always Follow Your Chimney and Fireplace Manufacturer’s Guidelines: If you have a wood-burning stove or fireplace, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for installation, usage, and maintenance, ask a Brushers Chimneys technician to show you where you can find this type of information inside your chimney and fireplace. 7. Check Houston, Texas or Your Local Regulations: Be aware of any local safety regulations or building codes regarding chimneys and their usage, Brushers Chimneys technicians can also provide you with local regulations depending on the city you live in. By hiring Brushers Chimneys for your yearly chimney inspection in Houston, TX and surrounding areas, we guarantee our fully trained and highly knowledgable technicians will take these precautions and teach you how to regularly maintaining your chimney and fireplace, so we can guarantee your chimney is safely operating and help you prevent the chance of any potential chimney fires, chimney repairs, and any future chimney problems. Call Brushers Chimneys today to book your appointment. We are always uploading Videos of our chimney work, you can check it out here.
Dangers of Not Cleaning Chimney Regularly
Can you go on and about without a chimney in your house? No! It is an essential part of the functionality of your household, and here’s why you should not only install one but also clean your chimney; but what happens if you don’t clean it? A chimney is a vertical pipe that directs smoke and gases away from a fire or stove in your house out of the roof. The main purpose is to prevent those harmful substances from penetrating the living spaces and to provide a way for the fire to get the oxygen it needs to keep burning. If your house has a fireplace or wood-burning stove, a chimney is essential to your entire heating system. What Happens if You Don’t Clean Your Chimney? Creosote buildup is inevitable when you burn wood or other fuel in your fireplace or stove. If you leave it unchecked, this accumulation becomes a serious hazard, and the following may happen. Chimney Fires One of the wildest issues that may happen if you don’t clean your chimney is the risk of a fire. This is due to creosote and other flammable substances accumulating in your chimney, followed by ignition, resulting in a fire that can spread to the rest of your home. These fires are extremely difficult to put out. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Another lethal consequence of not cleaning your chimney is carbon monoxide poisoning. When your chimney is obstructed, there is no room for carbon monoxide to escape. This toxic gas causes symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even death. Smoke Damage A clogged or dirty chimney makes the smoke back up into your house. This results in smoke damage on your walls, ceiling, and furniture. Other than that, it can also lead to respiratory problems. Signs that Your Chimney Needs Cleaning Now that you are familiar with the hazards of not cleaning your chimney, it is important to know when the time is to schedule a cleaning. Here are some insights that your chimney needs attention: Excessive Creosote Buildup If you can see a dense layer of creosote in your chimney, it is time to call a professional chimney sweep. You cannot leave it as it is since creosote has highly flammable properties and can cause chimney fires if it’s not removed regularly. Smoke Backing Up If you notice smoke backing up when using your fireplace or stove, it’s a sign of chimney obstruction. This could be because of the buildup of debris, animals, or even a collapsed chimney liner. Foul Odors Your house shouldn’t smell. If you can smell a bad whiff coming from your chimney, it could be an indicator of debris buildup, animal droppings, or even a dead animal inside your chimney. How Often Should You Clean Your Chimney? The frequency depends on how often you use your fireplace. If it is regularly used throughout the winter, schedule a cleaning at least once a year. However, if you use it less, then you can probably get away with having it cleaned every two or three years. Final Note Address your chimney concerns by getting in touch with the experts from Brusher’s Chimney. We are located at 10103 Fondren Rd #375, Houston, TX 77096 — Dial (346) 258-3477 to connect with us.
How Does Chimney Save Itself From Rainwater?
You are not alone if you have ever looked at a chimney and wondered how it keeps the rain out. Chimneys are an essential component of any home that has a fireplace, but they are often overlooked when it comes to maintenance and protection from the elements. Let’s have a look at how chimneys work to keep the rain out and how you can protect your chimney from water damage. Chimney’s Work During Rains Before we dive into how chimneys keep the rain out, you should have an idea about how it works in general. The primary function of a chimney is to let smoke and other combustion extras escape safely from the fireplace. This is possible to do so through a combination of draft and insulation. When your fire is burning in the fireplace, hot gases rise, making a draft that draws air in from the bottom of the chimney. This said draft carries the smoke and other gases up and out of your chimney, preventing them from entering your living space. The chimneys are typically lined with a layer of insulation to help facilitate this process. It is done to keep the gases hot and moving upward. However, things get a bit more complicated when it rains. Rainwater can easily enter the chimney and damage the chimney interior, the flue area, and even the walls and ceilings of your home. How Do Chimneys Keep Rain Out? Here is how it works: Chimney Caps They are present on the top of the chimney preventing rainwater from entering. Caps are usually made of metal and come with a mesh screen that allows smoke and gases to escape, meanwhile keeping rain and debris out. Flashing It is a slice-thin piece of metal fixed around the base of your chimney where it meets the roof. Flashing is made to prevent rainwater from seeping into the gaps between the chimney and the roof. Masonry The masonry also helps in keeping rainwater out. Chimneys have an angled top, known as a crown, directing rainwater away from the chimney’s opening. How To Protect Chimney From Rainwater? Ways you can protect your chimney from rainwater damage: Keep Your Chimney Clean Get regular cleaning done to ensure that it is free of debris and in good working order. A clean chimney functions better and is less likely to suffer from water damage. Get a Chimney Cap If your chimney doesn’t have a cap, install one asap. It is quite an affordable and effective way to keep rainwater out. Check Your Flashing Ensure the flashing functionality around your chimney; it should be in good condition and not damaged or missing. Address Water Damage Promptly Still, even after all the precautionary measures, if you notice any signs of water damage around your chimney, address the issue promptly. Ignoring can cause more serious problems down the road. Final Note Chimneys are an important part of your home’s heating system, and they play a crucial role in keeping you warm and cozy during the colder months. So, get in touch with professionals from Brusher’s Chimney in case you are having any trouble regarding the system. Dial (346) 258-3477 to connect with us via call. You can also drop by our office located at 10103 Fondren Rd #375, Houston, TX 77096.
9 Chimney Problems In Old Houses
If you are planning to buy an old house, make sure not to miss out on a chimney inspection. The older the houses are, the more problems their chimney will likely have. Here are some issues common with an old chimney in houses. No Chimney Liner Starting off with the basics, historical or old chimneys never had a liner. That resulted in the heat from the fireplace breaking the brick-and-mortar over time. This led to cracks and holes in the chimney setup. Flue Liner Damage The flue liner is the protective barrier inside your chimney, preventing heat and gases from damaging the walls. If the flue liner of your set is damaged or broken, it can cause a fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Damage To The Masonry & Mortar Next in line among the issues is damage to the masonry and mortar. Weather conditions and constant wear and tear can take a toll on chimney materials. This makes them crack, crumble down, or even break apart. In case you see any damage, it is best to have a screening and repair as soon as possible. Settling Old-aged and historical homes are more prone to settling with time. This means that the home’s foundation slowly sinks into the ground. This phenomenon results in many sorts of problems, making the chimney lean in a position. The whole situation puts added stress on the structure of the chimney and eventually leads to cracks and collapse. Weather Wear and Tear Weather damage is a common problem with old houses with historic chimneys. This is seen increasingly in those areas that experience severe weather changes, this includes high winds, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and even hurricanes. Nowadays, modern homes are made while keeping these things in mind, and they can withstand these weather changes easily. Whereas old homes often cannot. Therefore, newly built homes sustain serious damage during seasonal changes. In case you reside in an area that is susceptible to severe weather change, have your historic home chimney regularly inspected. Spalling This is another old chimney problem that happens due to the weather shift. The freeze and thaw cycles are usually brutal on older masonry. Winter extreme temperatures can affect a chimney’s safety and functionality to a great extent. Since the bricks are porous, they become prone to this trouble. Moisture absorption into the bricks during cold weather leads to the freeze-and-thaw cycle. The moisture inside expands the brick, weakening it. With time, bricks break and lose chunks of it; this process is known as spalling. Pyrolysis – Long Term Heat Exposure You may find exquisite beauty in these older homes; however, it is mostly the safety standards in question. More so of fireplaces that are not built the same as they are today. The older the house, like ones built in the 1940s or earlier – the more likely it is on the verge of potential pyrolysis complications. Pyrolysis is the slow but steady increase in flammability risk. Heat exposure for a long time from frequent use of fireplaces slowly dries out nearby wood. The addition of chimney liners prevents old pyrolysis from happening. Chimney Crown Damage The chimney crown is a concrete cap at the top of the chimney. It cracks and deteriorates over time, letting water flow into the chimney. Chimney crowns are easily repairable or replaceable to prevent further damage. Age-related Wear and Tear Over time, all chimneys will experience wear and tear that can lead to problems. Regular maintenance and inspections help identify and address age-related issues. If the chimney is very old and has significant damage, it may need to be rebuilt. Final Words The old constructions of homes were usually built by the standards of old times. If you are planning to buy an old house with historic chimneys, contact Brusher’s Chimney for a quick inspection and same-day chimney repair in Houston—Dial (346) 258-3477 to connect with us.
There Are Squirrels in My Chimney, Help!
Well, squirrels are known for their curious and adventurous nature, and what better place to explore than the inside of a warm, cozy chimney? It’s like they’re saying to themselves, “Hey, what’s this tall, dark, and cylindrical structure? Let’s go check it out!” And before you know it, they’re sliding down the chimney like a giant fireman’s pole. You may think that it isn’t big of a deal to have squirrels living in your chimney but trust our word, there are so many cons to letting these cute manifestations be. Why Is It Not Safe Having Squirrels In The Chimney? Having squirrels in your chimney can be dangerous for several reasons: Fire hazard Squirrels can build nests in your chimney, resulting in blockages and increasing the risk of a fire. The nests can easily ignite due to the sparks from the burning fire below. Health risks Although these tiny animals seem harmless, they are carriers of diseases such as rabies, easily transferable to humans and pets through bites or scratches. Squirrels also carry fleas, ticks, and other parasites that can spread diseases to humans. Damage to Your Property Squirrels can damage your chimney and roof in attempts to enter or exit your chimney. To do that, they won’t shy away from chewing on electrical wiring and other parts of your home, leading to costly repairs. Nuisance These tiny creatures are noisy and disruptive. They show aggression, especially if they are trapped in the chimney and are trying to escape. The noise from their scratching and scampering can be heard inside the home, causing a disturbance. How To Get Rid of Squirrels in From Your Chimney? Call The Professionals. It is probably the best approach to deal with squirrels stuck inside your chimney, as sometimes it is impossible to remove the squirrel yourself as they are in places you can’t get to without equipment. Getting professional help can save your lives and time. Once you make the call, try these tips in the meantime. Hush Them Out Close your fireplace doors or use a screen to cover the entrance. Next, stand beside your fireplace and clap your hands to indicate the squirrel to leave. If the squirrels are in the fireplace flue, close your damper. It will make entering your house difficult and urge it to leave its sneaky place. Devise an Escape Plan Try helping them out by giving them room to leave. Try to hang a thick rope down your chimney flue from the top. This will provide the squirrel with an obvious and easy route out of your chimney. Trap It If they are adamant about staying or cannot leave the chimney, try live-trapping it like a mouse. Make sure to close all your interior doors towards the room. Even if that squirrel gets space, it does not enter the house. But, do leave one window in line of sight with the chimney for the trespasser. This ensures that squirrels can see a way out into the yard. Final Words Once you get rid of the intruder, cover your chimney up to avoid any further nuisance. You can always get in touch with professionals from Brusher’s Chimney in Sugar Land, TX, for help. Dial (346) 258-3477 to connect with us.
Water Leaking around Your Chimney? Here are 13 Reasons Why It May Be Happening
It is best to prepare ahead of time and get done with chimney repair and maintenance before the cold breeze hits you. Your chimney goes through extensive wear and tear (bearing harsh weather) all year round, which results in issues like leaking around the chimney. With timely annual chimney inspections, you can save money before the repairs elevate and cost much more. Read on to learn the 13 most common causes of chimney leaks and ways you can temporarily maintain them. 13 Reasons Why Your Chimney Is Leaking Missing Chimney Cap The absence of a cap makes your chimney and your home vulnerable at the hands of nature. External situations like rain, snow days, or sleet can fall right inside your house through it. With moisture, expect damages in places like the damper or deterioration in the chimney flue. Other than that, the leaves may blow in, resulting in chimney obstruction or, worse, a fire. If you ignite a fire in your blocked chimney fireplace, toxic fumes spread around your house, causing carbon monoxide poisoning. Worn Out Mortar and Masonry Usually, the masonry lasts around a century, given it maintains the distance from moisture. However, the mortar between its masonry only lasts for 25 years approx, that too in ideal conditions. Mortar replacement is necessary when it’s longer functioning to keep the moisture out of your chimney. If moisture seeps into the masonry, it will start the freeze and thaw cycles during winter leading to the masonry face falling off. Leaks From Chimney Within – Condensation Issue The phenomenon of “Chimney Sweating” is damp bricks and mortar. You know what condensation is, the presence of dew on the window inside on a cold day; this is exactly that. There is no need to fret about it since it is a normal process. There are times when the heat from your fire is not enough to evaporate water. In that case, the water stays in the chimney and is absorbed by the porous bricks. And then, the same cycle of freeze and thaw starts. Leaking Bricks Defect Porous bricks make up the chimneys making water absorption a top-priority risk. When this happens, freeze/thaw cycles start causing cracks in the brick and leaking around and inside the chimney. Dingy Chimney Shoulder Your chimney narrows where the masonry is, turning it into a slope that can feature ledges preventing water from draining away from the bricks and stones. Roofing Nails or Tar High winds or accidental pulling of the roofing nails can result in leaks around the chimney. If the shingles lift and expose the nails, they will start rusting. Even a single rusted nail can make your roof leak whenever it rains. Chimney Crown Crack You can find the chimney crown on top. It resists moisture and prevents entry between the flue lining and the masonry.In the case of a crown crack, water gets in to cause damage. You can get rid of small cracks before moisture causes enormous damage. Flashing Leaks Chimney flashing is where your chimney and rooftop meet to form a waterproof seal keeping moisture out.It is usually of aluminum and not as durable. That is why flashing is a common reason for a leaky chimney. Wood Siding Cracks in the wood siding or knots let water through to cause troubles like mold growth. Top Pan Leak The metal top pan is not that sturdy and lacks durability. Water accumulates there, and the metals rust because of that. So, ensure your top pan is free from cracks or spaces in between. Inaccurate Chimney Liners Chimney liners in the flue direct the smoke out of your fireplace. To make that happen, the liner size should be according to the structure it’s covering. Large flue makes gasses condensate and substantial moisture build up. Chimney Cricket Your chimney may have water pooling if it’s on a downward slope; from that place, the water can peek into bricks and mortar, causing serious damage and deterioration of your chimney. You can install a chimney cricket to deal with this. It is a small peaky roof placed on the backside of your chimney to deflect water away. Final Words Prepare your fireplace or wood stove for the winter beforehand. You can set up a chimney inspection with our experts at Brusher’s Chimney. We offer the most affordable chimney repair in Houston, TX. Call us at (346) 803-2981 to connect with us.
