Home improvement projects have been on the rise for the better part of last year, with people expected to spend over $450 billion in 2021 alone.
However, one area of the house that may not get as much attention is the chimney. Chimneys are exposed to outside elements and have to weather all sorts of bad weather situations.
So how do you know if your chimney has been damaged by the weather conditions enough to mandate chimney repair services? Read on to find out:
1. Damaged Cap/Cover
The cap and cover are placed on top of the flue in order to stop external elements from entering the house, including water, debris, critters, etc. However, this also means that the cap/cover is the first thing to get damaged.
If you notice that the cap or cover has been damaged or moved from its position, the rest of the chimney has likely been affected too.
Additionally, if you start noticing an increased amount of debris in your fireplace, it’s possible that the cap/cover was dislodged.
2. White Stains on Chimney
Efflorescence is when salt is left on the surface of your wall or chimney’s bricks. Salt is left behind by the water moving through the structure of the house.
This moisture can damage the chimney and the house, so it’s important to immediately call for chimney inspection and masonry repair services.
3. Damaged Brick and Mortar Joints
The joints between the bricks are integral to the structure of a chimney. If the joints experience a lot of wear and tear without maintenance, they’ll eventually split, leading to the bricks losing their shape and the chimney falling.
The small cracks in those joints hold water, which turns into ice in winter, leading to the joints expanding and decreasing in size. This leaves the bricks vulnerable, allowing more moisture inside the house.
Increased gaps in between bricks mean that the winter season has damaged the structural integrity of the chimney. You should call your chimney service provider immediately for repair services.
Get Chimney and Masonry Services in Connecticut
If you’ve noticed one of the above signs in your chimney or fear that it may have been damaged due to bad weather, get in touch with us at CT Chimney Repair.
As part of the chimney, fireplace, and masonry industry, we have provided cleaning, repairing, installation, inspection, construction, and designing services for over 30 years in Connecticut.
Book an appointment with us today to get a free estimate.
