Reapir Common Chimney Problems
If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t think about your chimney very often. But if you start to notice problems with it – such as smoking or creosote buildup – it’s time to call in a professional.
The season is winding down, and if you are looking for your Chimney repair in Houston, TX, there’s still time before next winter to get it into shape by a certified technician from Take Air.
But first thing first, what are the common problems we see with our customers’ chimneys?
Most Common Chimney Problems
- Obstruction
- Creosote
- Brickwork Problems
- Chimney Crown and Chimney Cap
- Cracks in the Flue
Let’s talk about every problem in detail
1) Obstruction
The most common problem that we see is an obstruction in the flue. This can be anything from leaves and branches to bird’s nests and dead animals. Suppose you have an animal that has died in your chimney. In that case, it’s essential to have it removed as soon as possible, as the decaying carcass can cause all sorts of problems, including bad odors and attracting other animals. The homeowner can usually remove things like leaves and branches, but if you have a lot of creosote buildup, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
2) Creosote
The second most common problem is creosote buildup. Creosote is a byproduct of combustion, and it can build up on the walls of your chimney, restricting airflow. If you have a lot of creosote buildup, it’s important to have it removed by a professional, as it can be a fire hazard. When creosote catches fire, it can create a dangerous situation. Remember, safety first!
3) Brickwork Problems
People often ignore the brickwork on their chimneys, but it’s important to have it inspected regularly. The bricks of your chimney can deteriorate over time, and if they are not repaired, it can lead to serious problems. If you have any cracks in your brickwork, it’s important to have them repaired as soon as possible. You should also have your brickwork inspected if you notice any water damage, as this can also lead to serious problems.
4) Chimney Crown and Chimney Cap
The chimney crown is the concrete cap that seals the top of the chimney. It can crack over time, and water can get into the chimney and cause damage if it’s not repaired. The chimney cap is the metal cover that goes over the top of the chimney. It can also crack over time, and water can get into the chimney and cause damage if it’s not repaired. Your chimney crown and cap should be inspected regularly and repaired if necessary.
5) Cracks in the Flue
The flue is the part of the chimney that actually conducts the smoke and fumes up and out of your home. It’s typically made of bricks or clay tiles; over time, these materials can start to break down.
It’s really difficult to determine whether or not your flue has cracks just by looking at it. Weather changes and building settling can cause cracks, and they may not be large enough to see. We at Take Air use a process called video scanning to check for flue cracks. This involves inserting a small, flexible camera into the flue to get a close-up look.
If we do find cracks, the next step is to determine whether or not they can be repaired. Sometimes, we can simply seal the cracks with a special type of mortar. However, if the damage is too severe, we may need to replace the entire flue.
Conclusion
If you have any of the common chimney problems listed above, it’s important to call in a professional. Take Air is a certified Chimney repair company that can help you get your chimney back into shape before next winter. We offer a wide range of services for Chimney repair in Houston, TX, from obstruction removal to creosote cleanup to crack repairs. We also offer video scanning to check for cracks in the flue. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
(281) 568-3828
