Chimney Repair Tips

Small cracks in chimney bricks may seem harmless at first, but if left untreated, they could lead to more significant damages. As cracks spread, the likelihood of brick breakage increases dramatically, which could potentially cause bricks to fall onto the roof. Cracks in mortar also exacerbate the risk of chimney fires. Rain, snow and ice seep into these cracks and down behind the outer bricks to drip down onto the flashing and even further to the flue. Cracked chimneys can also cause damage to interior ceilings, roof systems, wall studs, insulation, and even the floors. In this article we will give chimney repair tips. Please consult with an Asheville Chimney Repair experts for more questions.

Chimney fires erupt instantaneously due to interior water damage and can only be extinguished from the top-down by the fire department. To avoid this terrifying catastrophe, keep an eye out for smaller cracks and seal them before they start to spread. Fortunately, a homeowner can take care of this issue themself without the hassle of contracting a service provider. All you will need is a few simple tools, and your cracked chimney can be good as new with very little time and effort. Official community permits are usually not required for minor chimney repair. However, it is a good idea to contact your local permitting office beforehand just in case your community requires a specific permit.

Keep in mind a few key roof safety tips as you work. Always wait for a dry day to do any work on your roof or on ladders. The safest way to perform tasks at high elevations is to use a safety harness, sometimes referred to as a fall-arresting harness. Most home improvement stores offer safety harness rental at an affordable rate. 

Here are some tools and materials you will need:

• Ladder

• Hammer

• Masonry chisel

• Mortar (high-heat)

• Putty knife

• Masonry sealer

• Tuckpointing tool

• Joint raker

• Garden hose

• Wire brush

• Pointing trowel