Three Chimney Trouble Signs You Shouldn't Overlook

Home & Garden Blog

If you're new to having a fireplace in your house, you may not be familiar with some of the common warning signs of chimney trouble. Since you can't always spot issues simply by inspecting the chimney from the ground, it's important that you understand what you should watch for. Here are three common chimney problems that you need to know about so that you know when it's time to call for chimney cleaning or repair.

1. Wallpaper Bubbling – If the wallpaper surrounding your chimney has started to wrinkle and develop bubbles, that's a key indication that there's moisture around the chimney itself. This is often caused by cracks in the chimney from outside, but it may also be a sign of internal structural problems. In either case, it's best to have a chimney sweep come out to clean the chimney and look for the source of the problem.  
2. Flue Tile Damage – Damaged flue tiles are not something to take lightly. If you're seeing shards of flue tile in the chimney, it means your chimney liner might be damaged. The chimney liner serves as a protective barrier to protect the outer layer of your chimney and your home, so it's essential that it's in good condition at all times. If you're having problems like this, it may be best to replace the linter with a stainless steel one for durability.  
3. Mortar Cracks and Other Damage – The mortar used to hold your chimney bricks in place and contribute some structural integrity to the chimney. If you're seeing drying, cracking or crumbling in the brick mortar, that's a sign of trouble. It could mean internal damage in the chimney. In either case, it's important to have the mortar replaced, because it's a serious structural concern for your chimney. Not only can cracked mortar weaken the structure, but it can also leave the chimney vulnerable to moisture. Over time, as moisture seeps into the chimney, it also means your chimney is susceptible to freezing. When the moisture in those cracks freezes, the water expands and makes the cracks larger. If you don't address cracking in a timely manner, it can damage the entire chimney.

Homeowners who are new to having a chimney and fireplace are often caught unprepared when a problem arises with the chimney. In many cases, this is simply because they weren't able to catch the warning signs early. With the information here, you can potentially avoid disaster with your chimney by catching the signs of trouble before they become serious.

For more information, contact Early Times Home Solutions or a similar company.

15 June 2015