A masonry chimney—one constructed of masonry materials like brick and mortar—adds an elegant touch to any home. The masonry gives a vintage feel to the house, but it may experience some wear and tear over time, especially when exposed to water. Some people choose to repair their chimneys in order to update the look and feel of their homes. However, you should know that there is more to chimney repair than aesthetics (or, looks).
Damaged Masonry May Allow Fire to Spread
If you notice cracks and damages anywhere on your chimney, it’s a good idea to schedule a professional inspection. You should schedule annual services either way, but damage to the masonry can actually be a major fire hazard, so be sure to contact an expert as soon as possible.
A buildup of creosote (a tarlike substance that results from the byproducts of combustion) in a chimney is one of the main causes of chimney fires. Creosote can ignite quickly, and the fire may spread to the outside of your chimney if it is able to move through weak points. Holes in the masonry are the perfect exit route for a chimney fire, which can then spread to the rest of the house. That’s why routine chimney repair and sweeping are so important.
Call a Certified Chimney Sweep for an Inspection Today
Make sure that the professional you choose for your chimney inspection and repair is certified to do the work. A CSIA (Chimney Safety Institute of America) professional is more likely to recognize chimney safety issues and have the resources to repair the issue using any of several appropriate methods.
The folks at 2nd Generation Chimneys, Inc. are happy to come take a look at your chimney and provide professional cleaning and repair services in the Minneapolis area. Call Us Today! 612.922.9600 or 1-888-PIXLEYS