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Signs That It’s Time to Repair Your Chimney’s Masonry

A good brick chimney properly maintained will last for decades. At certain points during its lifespan, however, the chimney will require some masonry repairs. The time to see to this work is as soon as the need for it arises. If you put it off, minor damage will become widespread and costly.

Chimney Sweeps Inc. of Lakeside, CA, would like to cover some of the signs you can watch for that tell you it’s time to have your chimney’s masonry inspected and repaired.

Crumbling brick and mortar in San Clemente, CA.Watch for these signs of masonry damage

Keep in mind that when you notice a single damaged brick, it’s likely that several or many other bricks are experiencing the same problems. Look over the entire structure carefully.

Sign #1: Cracked bricks

Cracks in masonry bricks should not be overlooked. Water can get into these cracks and begin a cycle of deterioration. If many bricks are showing cracks, it can weaken the chimney structure and eventually lead to a tilting or collapsed chimney.

Sign #2: Crumbling mortar

The mortar that holds the bricks together isn’t going to last as long as the bricks, so you’ll probably notice some mortar crumbling before you spot brick damage. A process called tuckpointing solves mortar problems by scraping out decayed sections of mortar and refilling them with a strong new compound.

Sign #3: Spalling

Spalling is the term for surface flaking on bricks. Over time, this flaking can weaken the bricks and make them susceptible to water intrusion, which will cause problems of its own.

Sign #4: Water leaks

Chimneys can leak for a variety of reasons, and damaged masonry is one of the most common causes. Signs of a leaky chimney include:

  • White stains on the masonry – it means water is penetrating and leaching salt out of the bricks.
  • Damp sections on the walls and ceiling near the fireplace.
  • Musty odors in the attic and coming out of the firebox.
  • Water dripping into the fireplace.

Sign #5: A leaning chimney

If you keep your chimney in good shape, it’s unlikely you’ll ever see it leaning. But if you do, have it looked at immediately.

Why chimneys become damaged

A lot of things can damage a chimney’s masonry. Here are ones we see regularly.

  • Lightning strikes
  • Powerful hailstorms
  • Chimney fire
  • Invasive rain and moisture
  • Earthquakes
  • Poor-quality bricks and mortar used to build the chimney
  • Sub-rate workmanship during building and repairs
  • Old age

Brick replacement in Lakeside, CA.

How we fix damaged masonry

Chimney Sweeps Inc. is experienced in all types of masonry repair and restoration work:

Get your chimney into tip-top shape

Keeping your chimney working right and looking good starts with an annual chimney inspection. This basic inspection covers all readily accessible areas of your chimney system and will alert you to early signs of problems.

If it’s been more than a year since your last inspection, or if you’re noticing any of the above signs of masonry damage, call us today. You can also get in touch by using our simple contact form.