Two of the biggest problems with chimney maintenance would be water and fire. First, we will look at what water can do. Water can penetrate and cause interior and/or exterior damage to your chimney and also pentrate through those leaks and cracks into the structure of the house through various entry points. Listed below would be areas to look at closely:
- exterior mortar has started to decay
- firebox assembly deterioration
- fireplace accessories starting to rust
- rotting adjacent wood and ruined wall coverings
- clean out area that is clogged
- chimney exterior is stained
- Water stains starting to show
- exterior mortar has started to decay
- flue lining system has started to crack
- hearth support issues
- chimney structure has started to tilt
- chimney settlement
- deteriorated central heating system
Water damage prevention
One of the most inexpensive fixes to prevent chimney issues is to install a chimney cap, also called a rain cap. This will save future expensive repair and extend the life of the chimney.
Other steps to take would be:
- Waterproof Your Chimney - only after checking for current leaks and repairs needed
- Damaged Chimney Crown - repair or replace
- Flashing - repair or replace
- Mortar Joints - repair and patch cracks or deterioration
- Install a Cricket - to prevent Leaks
