The town of Webster, “Where Life is Worth Living,” is considered one of the most desirable communities in Western New York for its scenic lakefront, mix of older, historic homes and newer luxury estates, and family-friendly lifestyle. While enjoying summertime at Webster Park or playing a round of golf at The Club, it’s hard to believe that in just a few weeks we will experience significant rain and snow. This weather is no match for a masonry chimney. Also, any existing damage will only be exacerbated. Now is the time to shore up your chimney, ensuring it is battle-ready against Mother Nature.
For over sixty years, the Felgemacher family has been providing expert chimney repairs that stop leaks and restore the structure’s strength and beauty so that you can enjoy the soothing, relaxing comfort of a safer, more efficient fire-burning experience.
How Rain & Snow Damages Chimneys in Webster, NY
Our chimneys face a double whammy due to the town’s proximity to the Great Lake. First, the heavy weight of snow accumulation on the roof can put immense pressure on the chimney flashing. Then, as the snow melts and refreezes, the flashing can rust, warp, or bend under the pressure, causing a menacing chimney leak that damages your attic and ceilings. Finally, moisture that seeps into the brickwork expands when it freezes, causing the masonry to repeatedly crack and crumble from the inside out throughout the long winter.
Most Common Chimney Repairs in Webster, NY
At Felgemacher, our skilled technicians are experts in all chimney repairs, including rebuilding and historic restorations. Here are the most common repairs we see in the Monroe County area:
Chimney Cap/Chase Cover Replacement:
Chimney caps are often dislodged by the high winds coming off Lake Ontario. Additionally, many homes have chase covers made of galvanized steel or aluminum, which are highly susceptible to rust and corrosion. We recommend high-quality stainless steel replacements.
Flashing Repair/Replacement:
We ensure the seal where your roofline meets the chimney is watertight to prevent moisture and pest intrusion.
Chimney Crown Sealing:
The chimney crown is vulnerable to developing hairline cracks from weather, settling, and foundation issues. We use an elastomeric sealant to repair these cracks, preventing water from entering the chimney’s interior.
Brick Replacement & Tuckpointing:
Spalling bricks and mortar erosion can cause severe instability. We perform color-matched tuckpointing and brick replacement to restore the structural integrity and beauty of your masonry.
Smoke Chamber Parging:
Common in historic Webster homes and those built in the 1980s and earlier, we smooth out the corbeled brick smoke chamber to improve draft, reduce creosote buildup, and bring your chimney into compliance with current building codes.
Firebox Repair:
Age, improper repairs, and moisture issues can damage the firebox. We replace cracked firebricks and deteriorated mortar with new heat-resistant materials to restore the fireplace.
Chimney Relining:
Cracked and deteriorating chimney liners are a severe fire and carbon monoxide hazard. We install UL-listed liners to protect your home and family from the high temperatures and harmful contaminants.
Can a Chimney Really Collapse?
You may have heard the tale of the Three Little Pigs, but in real life, it takes more than just a huff and a puff to bring down a chimney. A strong, gusty wind, however, can cause a chimney with severe masonry deterioration to collapse, sending over two tons of bricks tumbling down the side of the house. As noted in recent reports, the shifting landscape of the Rochester lakefront is causing erosion and moisture-driven foundation issues that are like “pulling a rug out from under the chimney.” Annual chimney inspections and timely repairs ensure your chimney’s foundation remains as solid as a rock.
Warning Signs Your Chimney May Need Repairs
If you notice any of the following, contact a Felgemacher CCS® professional for immediate assistance:
- Rust on the damper or in the firebox.
- Shaling chimney tile or brick pieces found in the firebox.
- Visible Stairstep or diagonal Cracks in the exterior brickwork that follow the mortar lines like a staircase.
- Damp smells or visible water stains on walls and ceiling near the chimney.
- Hearing the sound of dripping water or seeing a puddle in the fireplace.
- Condensation on the chimney liner.
Call Felgemacher for Expert Masonry Chimney Repairs in Webster, NY
Don’t let Mother Nature blow down your stack! With over sixty years of service, Felgemacher Masonry & Chimney is proud to be the oldest and most respected masonry contractor specializing in top-notch chimney repairs in Webster and the Greater Rochester area.
We treat our customers like family. Call us or complete our short online form to speak with a Certified Chimney Sweep® today!
