Cold weather can be damaging for residential chimneys, particularly in areas that experience high precipitation levels. The freeze-thaw effect refers to the natural process of the moisture on the surface freezing and thawing repeatedly. This phenomenon is a common occurrence during winters and can have a severe impact on porous construction materials, such as cement and clay, which are used in brick masonry chimneys.
When it rains or snows during winter season, the moisture is absorbed by the porous masonry. When the temperature goes sub-zero, the moisture particles turn to ice. The resulting expansion causes the masonry to become cracked.
When the temperature rises again, the ice thaws into water, and as the temperatures drop below freezing again, the moisture freezes back and becomes ice. This further widens the cracks in the brickwork. The larger crevices draw in even more moisture which expedites the destructive effect of the freeze-thaw cycle.
The impact of the freeze-thaw cycle isn’t apparent after just one season. However, over the span of a few years, it can take a serious toll on the brickwork and the masonry. The growing cracks lead to the bricks becoming loose and chipped while the moisture erodes and softens the mortar, which results in gaps forming between the joints.
The absence of mortar and spalling bricks can cause whole bricks becoming dislodged from the chimney. This not only compromises the structural integrity of the chimney, but also creates the hazard of falling bricks from the rooftop.
Without timely intervention to repair the damage, there’s a high risk of the entire top part of the chimney collapsing.
Chimney Repair For Freeze-Thaw Damage
Experienced professional chimney repair experts, like those at Connecticut Chimney Repair can address the problem of spalling bricks and damaged mortar, and restore the chimney to its optimal condition. If freeze-thaw damage is identified early, in most cases, it can be easily rectified by tuck-pointing. The chimney repair technicians will remove the decayed mortar and fill the empty spaces with high-strength bonding material. The same technique will then be used to fill in the cracks in the brickwork.
If the damage is extensive, it may require a complete or partial chimney crown rebuild.
The Chimney Experts At Connecticut Chimney Repair Can Help!
CT Chimney Repair offers professional chimney repair and rebuilding services at reasonable rates all across the state of Connecticut. Get in touch with our chimney experts today for further information.
