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How to Repair Damaged Brick Chimney Cracks
Cracks in the Brick Chimneys Can Cause Serious
Problems
Introduction:
Chimneys are for channeling
smoke and toxic gasses from your furnace, woodstove
or fireplace. Although chimneys are built to last
for decades they still suffer from environment
stress due to the natural elements. When a chimney
has cracks in the outside or inside walls you can
have serious problems. Mortar joints between the
bricks are likely to flake, wash out or crack after
20 or 25 years of exposure to the elements of
nature.
The continuous cycle of freeze and thaw action of
winter climates is usually the cause of chimney
degradation and the need for periodic chimney
repairs. Moisture makes its way into the masonry
between the bricks eventually causing damage. In
addition, any attachments to the chimney that are
metal such as lightning rods or television antennas
can induce chimney damage.
The risk of having a damaged chimney increases in
old historic homes before natural gas or oil for
heat became common. Coal was used which is very
acidic. In those older homes the chimneys were
built larger to accommodate the high heat of
burning coal that today’s powered boilers are
oversized and operate too cool for oil or natural
gas boilers. These old chimneys can lead to greater
risk of condensation and resulting damage. The
uppermost areas of the interior walls of the
chimney are the most vulnerable. They are the most
difficult to notice unless you spend time on the
roof. Unfortunately, neglect and lack of inspection
often lead to the need for major repairs.
Your home's location can also increase the
chimney's risk of damage. A chimney that was built
fifty years ago are susceptible to earthquake
damage because they were built rigid and as a
result they don't move with a quake as modern
chimneys do. Damaged chimneys can also allow toxic
gases such as carbon monoxide to leak into your
house, creating a serious health hazard.
You should always check the chimney at least every
one or two years for damage. Check the chimney area
for missing or loose flashing and any signs of
damage to the masonry, especially cracking.
Any serious
problems should be repaired by a professional
mason. A chimney can last for decades if it is well
maintained. Minor cracks in the masonry should be
repaired before they become bigger problems. Loose
cement should be removed and the area repaired. If
the cap on the chimney is seriously damaged it
should be replaced. Related Articles: How to Restore Marble Fireplaces Installing a Wood Burning Fireplace Insert
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