Common Chimney Problems-What to do

A guide for common chimney problems when you detect them is very important. It enables you to keep your chimney functioning properly all the time. A chimney and the fireplace add warmth and character to your home. However, there is more to these fixtures than the cozy aesthetics. To use the chimney safely, you need to maintain it properly and fix problems whenever you notice them.
There are many problems that can occur in your chimney and they need to be addressed when they occur. There are also maintenance practices that can be done on the chimney to prevent some of the problems from occurring. Among the most common problems of a chimney include the following:

•    Creosote deposit: Chimney allows more than smoke to escape when burning wood at the fireplace. Creosote is a dark brown or black tar and soot that comprises of fine carbon in powder form. Combination of soot and creosote gives smoke color and this can be deposited in the chimney. Creosote is flammable and this makes it dangerous because it can result in chimney fires. It also prevents chimney from venting out smoke properly which results in dangerous fumes crowding a home. To prevent creosote from causing problem to your chimney, clean the chimney regularly. You can hire a professional who has the right tool to clean your chimney.

•    Flue cracks: Chimney lining is usually included in the construction of a fireplace. Clay tile is the most common lining used in most fireplaces. This is because of is stainless and durable. It is important to note that since the chimney lining is always subjected to stress and high temperature, it is likely to be damaged over time. Using a damaged flue can be dangerous and that is why you should not use the fireplace until you replace the lining. Therefore check your flue regularly for cracks on the lining and replace it if it is damaged to prevent house fire that can occur when heat reaches the combustible parts.

•    Blockage: Apart from creosote, blockage in a chimney can occur due to various reasons. For instance, blockage is very common after failing to use the fireplace for quite a while. Materials that can cause chimney blockage include leaves, bird’s nest and other types of debris. Deterioration of the chimney can also cause blockage. When you notice a blockage in your chimney, it is advisable that you seek help of a professional. A professional technician will inspect the blockage, identify it and then remove it properly.

•    Brickwork problem: Chimney masonry has a potential of lasting for up to a century. However, when the used mortar has deteriorated, the entire chimney or the bricks are exposed to damages by moisture which cause brickwork problems. To keep your chimney in good condition, you should inspect the status of your bricks and mortar regularly. If brickwork is not able to prevent or resist damage from moisture, replace the mortar. A professional chimney expert can assist you in solving brickwork problems.

•    Chimney crown and chimney cap: Chimney crown and chimney cap are usually the first defense lines for a chimney against the harsh environmental elements. If they are damaged, moisture enters the chimney with ease and this can cause myriads of other problems and even make using the chimney unsafe.  As such, it is important to check the chimney crown and chimney cap regularly and deal with any problem that you might notice. Call a professionally trained and experienced technician to repair the chimney crown and cap if necessary.

A guide on common chimney problems- What to do when they occur is crucial because it guides you in solving these problems and keeping your chimney safe for use.

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