A tilting or leaning chimney can be unsafe. Many different things can lead to this issue, but regardless of the cause, it should be addressed as quickly as possible. Calling a reliable chimney repair expert as soon as you notice your chimney leaning can remedy the issue, your chimney to optimal function and safety, and save you a considerable amount of money.

Common Causes of a Leaning Chimney

  • Poor Construction: If the chimney wasn’t built properly or if the mortar and bricks used to make it were of a poor quality, there’s a chance that the chimney will start leaning or will suffer from other types issues over time.
  • Masonry Damage: Decayed or age-worn bricks or missing pieces in the masonry can cause a chimney to become unbalanced and start leaning.
  • No Footing: The construction of older homes often didn’t include a footing for the chimney. Without a properly constructed cement footing to support them, chimneys are prone to develop issues, such as leaning, over time. Also, if the footing is too shallow or narrow, or built with inferior quality materials, it may crumble or crack under the chimney’s weight. Damaged footing is another prevalent reason behind leaning chimneys.
  • Lack of Footing Reinforcement: A chimney footing needs to have proper reinforcement so it can support the weight of the chimney for decades. Without it, the footing will start to crack which will cause the chimney to develop a tilt.
  • Soil Problems: If the soil beneath the footing becomes loose, it’ll shift over time, and there’s a chance the chimney will shift with it.

Signs Your Chimney Is Leaning or May Lean Soon

Quite often, a chimney develops a slight tilt that is difficult to notice. However, if you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to call a local chimney expert.

  • The chimney is leaking
  • The presence of water in the firebox
  • Gaps between the external walls of the house and the chimney structure
  • Warped flashing
  • Chunks or decayed mortar around the base of the chimney top
  • Loose bricks around the chimney top

Are you facing issues with your home chimney? Well, you’re at just the right place! 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.