chimney
Chimney Repair

Chimney Repair Basics

The first step in chimney repair is to check for water damage. Water in a chimney can cause spalling, a condition where the surface of brick or stone falls away. Cracks and damaged masonry work may also result in water leaks into the home. You will likely need to have Chimney Repair Charleston SC in such cases. Water damage affects the outside and inner parts of a chimney. Water can rust interior metal parts. In addition to water, chimneys also experience corrosion.chimney

Another important part of chimney maintenance is the flue liner. This liner protects the interior of the chimney and helps it perform. Most states require flue liners. They help the chimney carry combustible gases outside. While modern flue liners are made of metal, clay flue liners are often used in older homes and tend to deteriorate over time. In addition to the dangers of a deteriorated flue, a non-functioning chimney can expose the entire household to harmful chemicals. It can also be a major fire hazard.

While it is tempting to patch up a crack in your chimney, this only serves to make the problem worse. In fact, the damage could eventually be so severe that a chimney repair would require complete rebuilding. In such cases, you should call a professional chimney sweep to inspect the structure of the chimney to prevent further problems. A chimney repair can be far less expensive than a costly replacement. But the most important aspect of chimney repair is that you do not use the fireplace until the problem is resolved.

If you do decide to perform chimney repair yourself, it is important to use a safety harness. You should wear it whenever you work on a steep roof. You should also use an extension ladder, which will allow you to stand on stable steps. Remember that falling from a roof can lead to an accident and even death. Always hire a professional if you are unsure about chimney repair. If you don’t have experience or knowledge, it will cost you money.

Another common chimney repair process is repointing. This involves repairing the mortar between bricks. Damaged mortar joints are removed and repaired. A repointing job costs approximately $2,000 to $3500. Afterward, you may also need to replace the chimney bricks. Tuckpointing, on the other hand, takes care of aesthetic concerns. Using two colors of mortar to fill in cracks, it matches the brickwork and the mortar joints of the chimney.

Another important part of a chimney is the crown. This cap is sloping and protects the masonry section of the chimney. Cracks in the crown are more dangerous than cracks in the vertical section of the chimney. The crown allows water to collect and can even cause shaling and spalling. Proper weatherproofing is essential for the integrity of your chimney. If you see a crack or split in the chimney crown, consider hiring a professional for the repair work.

Water leaks are another common chimney problem. These leaks can lead to major damage if left untreated. When the water gets into the chimney, it erodes the flue and creates a moisture-filled environment. During the winter months, this moisture can cause a significant crack. Getting your chimney waterproofed will prolong its lifespan and prevent any damage from happening. So, if you think that your chimney isn’t safe, contact a chimney repair company today.

Chimney repair costs vary based on the type of damage and how extensive it is. A simple wood-rot repair may cost only $100 to $300. A larger area may require $2,500 or more. A complete chimney removal may cost more than $10,000. HeatShield sealing may cost up to $3,500 depending on the extent of the work and the location. If you’re considering a full chimney replacement, take time to read up on the cost of the project before hiring a contractor.

A full chimney replacement may cost anywhere from $4,200 to $15,000, and the cost of repairing a cracked chimney can range from $200 to $350. If a cracked crown is causing the leak, replacing the entire chimney may cost an additional $2,100 to $4,500. Cracked flue tiles may need a more expensive repair. Chimney repairs may even need a full chimney restoration. Whether you need minor repairs or a complete replacement, it is important to find a professional for the job.