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The Importance of Chimney Repairs

There may come a time when you will need your chimney repaired. This is, of course, dependent on the age of the house as well as the seasonal changes, if any, in the temperature. Most is not all chimneys are made of brick. Brick is also a porous material.

Over time the material that is used to hold the bricks in place can become loose or dissolve. The reason for this is that it is water-soluble. This means that consistent exposure to temperature changes as well as exposure to water can cause the mortar to crumble. Homeowners in areas that have constant rainfall, should check for water damage and chimney corrosion periodically.

Once the mortar erodes, water can seep into your chimney, down your exterior and interior walls, and into your foundation. Water damage from chimney can go unnoticed from several months, if not years. If the cracks are severe enough, you will also notice the leaks on the inner walls of your home as well.

Most chimneys are lined, and the lining is made of metal. The metal lining can incur rust over time due to its exposure to water, snow, and ice. When the roof needs to be repaired, it is important that you also check to see if your chimney foundation is not deteriorating and is free of corrosion.

Another important factor that one should think about in regards to potential damage to your chimney is earthquake damage. If you happen to live in an earthquake zone and have recently had an earthquake, check the foundation and outer walls of your chimney to ensure that it is in working order. Damages to a chimney can cause carbon monoxide to leak into the home. It is important that you check to make sure that you do not have any toxic gas leaking into your home. Waterproofing a chimney is part of its maintenance; this should be done every few years.

In order to help your chimney last, it is important that you reproof, reinforce, and repair. If you do not have the skills to repair a chimney, it is important that you hire the services of a professional handyman in order to ensure that the job is done right. Having someone who knows what they are doing will also help to keep you safe and chimney repairs can be risky and sometimes fatal, if you do not know what you are doing.