Common Problems Your Chimney Could Have
When your chimney or its components are beginning to show signs of trouble and common chimney problems, the time to address the issues is now. Getting chimney problems repaired quickly prevents more serious damage or malfunction, which will usually happen if the problems are neglected.
Chimney Sweep Inc. of Lakeside, CA, brings more than 30 years’ experience to a wide range of chimney repair jobs. Here are some of the problems we can resolve for you.
Brick and Mortar Deterioration
Over time and after certain events, the bricks and mortar in a chimney’s masonry can begin to deteriorate. Bricks that are loose or spalling (decaying) along with crumbling mortar between the bricks can lead to big trouble if not addressed correctly.
Our expert chimney masons approach masonry problems in several ways:
- Brick replacement
- Tuckpointing to replace weakened mortar joints
- Partial and complete chimney rebuilding
- Chimney waterproofing, after repair work is done
Leaky Chimneys and Water Damage
When a chimney leaks, there’s always a reason for it. A proper inspection will tell us where the leak originates, the extent of the leak and whether or not any collateral damage has occurred.
Common causes of a leaky chimney include:
- Masonry issues as described above
- Damaged or missing chimney cap
- Cracked chimney crown
- Warped or otherwise damaged chimney flashing
A neglected leak can eventually cause widespread damage throughout your chimney system. We’ll perform the necessary repairs to stop the leak.
Odors From a Smelly Chimney
If your chimney is sending unpleasant odors into your home, there are several possible
causes, such as:
- Built-up creosote and soot in the flue
- Rotted nesting materials of birds, squirrels and other small animals
- Animals that have died in the chimney
- Tree debris
- A chimney leak
A thorough chimney sweep and the installation of a secure chimney cap will reduce or eliminate most smelly chimney problems.
Smoky Chimney Issues
If smoke is backing up out of the chimney or fireplace, we need to find out why. As bad as smoke is, much worse is the deadly carbon monoxide that’s present in smoke.
A smoky chimney or fireplace is typically
caused by:
- Debris or creosote obstructions in the flue
- A closed or partially closed damper
- Exhaust fans pulling smoke into the house
- Clogged venting in a chimney cap
- The house being too airtight to allow for a proper draft
The Chimney Sweep Inc. crew knows how to resolve every smoky chimney issue.
Rust Problems in the Chimney System
Metal parts and components in your chimney can develop rust and eventually become damaged. Rust originates with water and moisture, and we often find rust on:
- Chimney caps
- Chimney chase tops
- Chimney flashing
- Fireplace dampers
- Any other susceptible metal in the system
We’ll look closely at the amount of rust you’re dealing with and recommend either leak repair, general repair or replacement of the affected component.
White Stains on the Chimney
White stains (called “efflorescence”) on exterior chimney masonry mean that water is seeping into the bricks and leaching out salts. This is a fairly common problem, and it needs to be checked out.
Porous bricks naturally absorb some water, but this process can lead to brick decay. Our crew will assess the situation and then likely recommend replacing seriously damaged bricks and having the chimney waterproofed.
Expert Help for Your Chimney
Chimney Sweep Inc. is your first line of defense against these and other common chimney problems. We’ve been working on chimneys since 1985, and we know what it will take to restore safety and efficiency to yours.
Chimney sweeping in Southern California
When it’s time for a professional chimney sweep, Chimney Sweep Inc. is here to help.
We’re your local chimney experts in Lakeside CA, Oceanside CA, and the greater San Diego CA, area. We serve Coronado CA, Escondido CA, La Mesa CA, and San Clemente CA, along with North Park CA, Alpine CA, Solana Beach CA, and other communities throughout East San Diego County.
Speak with a chimney and fireplace expert today at (619) 593-4020 or request an appointment online.