To the untrained eye, a chimney may look like a simple brick and mortar pillar with a pipe or two at the top. In reality, you know that your chimney has many parts to it. And much like other areas of your home, your chimney needs regular, specialized care.
You want to keep your chimney in good working order. It helps keep your home warm and safe in the cold weather after all. But the question is how do you tell if and where your chimney needs repairs? At the end of the day, it is not only easier but safer to reach out to a professional chimney technician for examination and repair. They will know exactly what to look for and how to address your chimney’s needs safely.
For now however, we can give you a brief description of some parts of your chimney that you might want to check for potential repair needs.
The Liner
The liner is a ceramic or metal pipe that is placed within the inside of your chimney. Its purpose is to help contain the combustion byproducts created when you use your fireplace and help to direct them outside, thereby keeping your chimney walls protected from heat and corrosion and reducing wear and tear.
One problem you may have with your liner is that if it is improperly sized, it can cause poor drafting, a build-up of condensation, or a build-up of creosote.
If your liner is older, there is also a risk that it could have cracks. A cracked liner creates a risk of a fire starting in the chimney and spreading to your home’s exterior.
The Dampers
Your damper is that handy metal plate that you open and close to help control the airflow in your chimney. Essentially the damper keeps the cold air out and the warm air in.
Over time, and without proper cleaning, build-up on the damper soon and moisture can cause it to stick. The lever which controls the damper’s motion could also break, making it impossible to open or close the plate. On the other hand, if you check your damper and discover signs of rust or oxidation, this can be an indication of other problems that may need addressing.
The Caps and Screens
Often made of a hefty stainless steel, your chimney cap keeps water out of your chimney. If you have a screen as well, your cap and screen work together to keep out animals, leaves and additional debris too, while also keeping sparks from landing on your roof or in your yard.
Much like your damper, your chimney screen will need cleaning. Without being cleaned, creosote can collect and create airflow issues. Additionally, if your screen mesh is too small, it may clog more easily.
If your chimney cap shows signs of wearing down of has taken on damage, it can put your chimney at risk.
These are just some of the potential fixes that your chimney might need over time. If you are in need of chimney repair, make sure you reach out to the professionals to ensure your chimneys are taken care of.
Take the time to schedule your chimney repair in Minneapolis, MN today. Contact 2nd Generation Chimneys, Inc. to get a professional out to your house sooner rather than later.