How Do I Know If My Chimney Needs Restored?
Your fireplace is a focal point in your home. The beauty and warmth that it brings to you year after year is paramount. However, the fireplace is not the only component contributing to the wood-burning process. It is very important to keep up with the maintenance of the chimney. Denying this maintenance can lead to very costly repairs.
Professionals and homeowners agree that regular chimney maintenance will bring you joy for many years to come. This includes an annual chimney sweep and inspection.
Weather, time, and lack of maintenance will cause deterioration of your fireplace. Let us discuss some of the issues that may occur. These issues may lead to the restoration of the chimney.
Visible Changes in the Structure of the Chimney
If you see tilting of the chimney, it is time to contact one of our professionals from Felgemacher. A tilting chimney can cause damage to the structure of your home. This causes stress that can tear the lining. With this tearing, fumes and fire may enter the home. This exhaust can cause harm to you and your family.
Spalling
When water enters the porous bricks, spalling may occur. This is when you see flaking or chipping of bricks. Weather plays a big part in spalling bricks. The effect of freezing and thawing water causes this disruptive process. If not corrected, this can be detrimental to the appearance and efficiency of your chimney.
Bricks and Stones that are Missing
Over time the mortar between the bricks and stones of your chimney loses its consistency and breaks apart. This causes bricks and stones to fall out. If you notice that bricks and stones are missing from the chimney, contact a professional. Leaving this unattended may cause further structural damage.
Restoration vs Repair
Contact Felgemacher if you are not sure if a restoration or a repair is needed. Here is a list of issues that may need restoration:
- Chimney leaks
- Creosote buildup and issues with smoke circulation
- Flue liner deterioration
- Cracked or damaged masonry
- Damaged chimney crown
Keeping up with regular maintenance will keep your chimney and fireplace running for years to come. We suggest having an annual chimney sweep and inspection from a professional like Felgemacher. You can depend on us to give a fair price, and the quality of our work is guaranteed.
A clean chimney is a safe chimney, and we’ll keep yours as safe and efficient as it can be. Our owners are certified through the Chimney Safety Institute of America a stringent industry certification held by only the best sweeps in the U.S. We remove flammable creosote from chimney flues, reducing the chance of a chimney fire. We also remove debris and obstructions that could hamper the drafting of smoke and carbon monoxide.
We’ve been helping folks throughout the Buffalo NY and Rochester NY areas get the most out of their fireplace inserts, stoves, and chimneys for more than 60 years. When specialized chimney service is required, count on us for the best in chimney sweep, chimney repair, chimney rebuilding, and chimney inspection.
