Chimney Rebuilding 101

When will I know if I need to have a complete chimney rebuild? You signed into this blog at the right time. We have done the research and are here to give you what you need to know. 

First, you need to know how important it is to keep up with annual maintenance. This would include a yearly chimney sweep and inspection by a professional chimney sweep, such as Chimney Specialists Inc. Continue reading to find out more about what you need to know.  Depending on the amount of damage will determine whether you need a partial or complete rebuild. 

What Should I be Looking For?

• Tilted Chimneys.
• Broken bricks.
• Cracks.

These are all signs that there are issues involving your chimney. Cracks may be a clear sign that you may have water damage. Damage to the mortar can lead to devastation if not addressed. The longer the damage is not addressed, the worse it will become. 

Types of Chimney Rebuilds

• Partial – Minimal damage. Usually, replacing the chimney cap or flashing that gets the brunt of the exposure to the weather. Our professionals will replace any damaged bricks, rebuild the structure, and replace the mortar. Keep anything that is structurally stable. 
• From the roofline up, you will see deteriorated portions of the chimney above the roofline. A roofline chimney rebuild is a rebuild from the roof flashing up, which includes a new crown and cap. This part of the chimney is exposed to the weather. It is common to see brick deteriorate, sometimes unnoticed. Without proper maintenance, this can be devastating.
• Complete – The chimney is damaged and unstable. If the chimney is structurally unstable, leaning, falling apart, or not built to code, you most likely will need a complete rebuild. With a complete rebuild, the entire chimney will need to come down and be hauled away. The interior, which includes the flue as well as the brick and mortar, if that is what you choose. 

A yearly chimney inspection will identify issues as they occur. Here are the reasons for some damage.

• Creosote buildup.
• Moisture and freeze-thaw effect.
• Cracks in masonry.
• Chimney lining issues.
• Chimney crown damage.
• Settling of the chimney.

Not all damage requires a complete rebuild. Here are a few signs that can be seen on an inspection. Once our technicians at Chimney Specialists Inc. conduct the inspection, they will give you a complete assessment of any damage. 

Here Are Signs That A Complete Rebuild May Be Needed:

• The Chimney is tilting.
• White bricks.
• Crack in the Chimney.
• Bricks are found to be cracked, chipped, crumbling, or broken.
• Damaged Crown. 
• Flue tiles falling into the fireplace.
• Water damage in the home. 

Reach out to our professionals at Chimney Specialists Inc. to set up your Chimney Sweep and Inspection.

Chimney Specialists Inc. prides itself on offering customers and contractors in the tri-state area of northeast Iowa, northwest Illinois, and southwest Wisconsin complete installation service, nationally certified technical experts, a huge selection of quality stoves and fireplaces, and, of course, competitive pricing.