Your chimney provides two essential functions in the hearth. Not only does it move the harmful emissions away from your living space for clean, comfortable air, it also removes the excessive heat that forms near the combustibles in your firebox. Chimney maintenance and inspections are necessary and should be performed at least once a year, but through the course of regular use your chimney will also face wear and tear. You can count on having to face one or more of these common chimney repairs at least once in the lifetime of your hearth.
Mortar Crown Damage
This is probably the most common problem and occurs outside of your home on the peak (or crown) of your chimney. This area often looks like a concrete lip around your chimney and works to keep the water out of the flue.
If the mortar crown is cracked, chipped, crumbling or degrading in any way you need to take action and have it repaired. Often this type of damage is discovered during a routine chimney maintenance appointment, but roofers and other contractors may spot it while they are up there.
Flue Damage
Your flue is the internal, vertical tunnel that provides a pathway for emissions and smoke on their way out of the house. This essential part of your fireplace can get damaged, cracking, breaking or becoming blocked with debris or a build up of creosote over time. Repairs are needed at the first sign of a problem, since a damaged flue will affect the draft and cause problems with the entire system.
Other common repairs include damper replacement and masonry work such as brick repointing on the exterior of your chimney. Be sure to keep up with annual chimney inspections and take the advice of your technician when a problem arises. The quality of your chimney will affect the quality of your hearth and in turn, the level of comfort within your living space.
