Spring is the Best Time for Chimney Masonry Repairs
There is a tricky aspect to masonry repairs that make spring the best time of the year to schedule chimney masonry work. It has to do with weather conditions and ensuring that the repairs done will set properly. Some masonry projects can be done in winter, but chimney repairs are not among them. To be exact, dry, warm weather is needed. Starting early is highly recommended so that potential weather complications cannot interfere with the completion of masonry repairs before cold temperatures return.
What Types of Masonry Repairs are Needed for Chimneys?
It comes as a surprise to many homeowners that chimney masonry repairs are commonly needed. After all, chimneys seem to be durable, hassle-free venting systems. That is not the case, unfortunately. Moisture wreaks havoc on masonry. Annual chimney inspections are recommended by all leading fire safety experts in the U.S. One of the reasons for annual inspections is to make sure there hasn’t been moisture intrusion, which destroys masonry over time.
There are two basic options for water-damaged chimney masonry, and they are:
- Tuckpointing
- A masonry rebuild.
What is Tuckpointing?
Moisture enters chimney masonry in a variety of ways and one of the most common is through deteriorating mortar. The mortar between the bricks is supposed to help create a watertight atmosphere that protects the masonry. Although masonry can last a century or more, mortar can only last up to about 25 years, at best. If substandard materials were used, mortar failure happens much sooner.
Tuckpointing is a cost-saving measure because this procedure is used at a point when the mortar needs to be replaced but the masonry hasn’t yet been damaged by moisture. The old mortar is scraped out and new mortar is added in a procedure that renews the chimney structure and restores it to like-new condition.
What is a Chimney Masonry Rebuild?
If there is already moisture inside the chimney masonry, it becomes necessary to tear out the damaged bricks and install new ones. The alternative is to allow the chimney to start leaning and eventually collapse.
When a chimney rebuild is necessary, it is best to call on the services of a qualified chimney expert. There are times when brick masons don’t have the level of knowhow to understand the importance of various chimney features which help to keep moisture out and ensure the chimney operates properly. With a chimney masonry expert handling your chimney masonry rebuilds, you can be confident that your chimney is rebuilt correctly.
Why is Moisture Such a Problem?
Bricks are highly porous and will absorb moisture like a sponge if special care isn’t taken to help prevent that from happening. Chimney masonry damage can occur because of water intrusion that occurs by way of the following:
- Damaged chimney crown
- No chimney cap
- A damaged chimney cap
- Water on the roof flowing in torrents against the chimney stack
- Chimney flashing failure
- Damaged mortar
Chimney masonry is under attack by moisture from all sides! If you need masonry repair, be sure to schedule it in spring!
Contact the Chimney Experts at Chimney Specialists Inc.
We have bona fide masonry pros at Chimney Specialists Inc. You can be confident that tuckpointing, chimney repairs, chimney rebuilds, and chimney restorations are done by an experienced professional. We also provide reliable chimney inspections, chimney cleaning, and the full slate of chimney services. Remember, winter is no time for making chimney masonry repairs. Schedule repairs, rebuilds, and chimney restoration in spring or early summer, if possible.
If you are interested in adding a new heating appliance to your home, we also sell top brands and offer our expertise to help you choose the ideal appliance for you and your home. For chimney masonry repair, masonry rebuilds, and all of your chimney needs, give Chimney Specialists Inc. a call today at (608) 929-4887 or see additional contact information below.
Chimney Specialists Inc.
869 Main Street, Highland, WI
Phone: (608) 929-4887 / Toll Free: (800) 395-6660
Dubuque Fireplace & Patio
925 Century Drive, Dubuque, Iowa
Phone: (563) 582-5156
