Chimneys are built to last a long time, but many things can lead to them getting damaged at some point in their service life. Today, Bone Dry Roofing, your local roofing and masonry contractor*, shares the common culprits behind chimney structural damage.
Precipitation
Water, whether from heavy rain or in the form of melted snow, can find its way in even the smallest of cracks in the masonry of a chimney. Since the structure is exposed to the elements, natural freeze/thaw cycles can occur, causing it to expand and contract until such point the whole chimney begins to deteriorate and fall apart.
To further determine the extent of the damage, a professional chimney technician will have to be called in. If the damage is deemed minor, a waterproof can be applied to the outside part of the masonry to stop water intrusion.
Movement
Many chimneys have a solid footing built from stone or concrete and are laid deep enough to offer a sturdy base that keeps them erect. If this crucial component isn’t strong enough, then any form of movement caused by an external factor like strong winds or normal ground settling can cause the chimney to suffer damage. If your home has an existing fireplace, have this inspected by a pro to see if it requires repairs or a rebuild.
Faulty Construction
A chimney may seem like a simple structure to construct, but it requires a great deal of skill and expertise to complete it safely and durably. Many chimneys may have been poorly-built, but you can expect a chimney services technician to thoroughly inspect them to identify issues quickly. It’s a good idea to hire one in your local area for your peace of mind.
For your chimney repair needs, turn to Bone Dry Roofing’s Masonry Division. We specialize in all types of masonry repair and restoration work, as well as complete chimney rebuilding and inspections. From cracked masonry, leaks, blocked chimney caps, and poorly fitted dampers, our experienced technicians have solved nearly every chimney problem you can imagine.
Call 877-BONE-DRY or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
