Over time, chimneys are susceptible to deterioration, leading to compromised functioning and safety hazards.
Over time, chimneys are susceptible to deterioration, leading to compromised functioning and safety hazards. Homeowners must understand the underlying causes of chimney deterioration so they can adopt proactive approaches to minimizing potential risks. Regular inspections can help lengthen the life of a chimney, and without them, these factors will lead to more rapid breakdown. Let’s go over the causes of chimney deterioration.
Poor Ventilation
Improper ventilation in your chimney is a significant cause of chimney deterioration. If your chimney has inadequate airflow and ventilation, moisture and condensation can accumulate within the chimney. When water gets trapped inside the mortar and freezes, it causes cracks and spalling. If ignored, the repairs will be expensive. Driving rain can get into a chimney and cause metal components to rust. To prevent chimney deterioration caused by improper ventilation, it is crucial to ensure that the chimney system is properly designed and installed.
Chimney Settling
Chimney settlement refers to a chimney’s gradual sinking or shifting due to inadequate construction or improper support. This settling can result from various factors, such as unstable soil, improper construction, or insufficient reinforcement. Eventually, chimney settlement can lead to significant structural issues, including masonry cracks, the chimney’s leaning or tilting, and compromised stability and integrity. You should consult a qualified chimney contractor to assess the extent of the settlement and determine the appropriate response.
Lack of Maintenance
Routine maintenance is vital for identifying early signs of chimney deterioration or damage that may go unnoticed. During inspections, professionals can assess the chimney’s condition, identify potential issues, and recommend necessary repairs. Without routine inspections, minor problems can escalate into major, more expensive, and time-consuming structural issues.
Freezing and Thawing Cycles
Water trapped in the bricks is particularly problematic during winter. When temperatures drop, the water inside freezes, causing it to expand. This expansion exerts tremendous pressure on the surrounding masonry, resulting in visible cracks. As the cycle continues, more water leaks into the masonry freezes, and expands, causing further chimney deterioration.
A practical approach to prevent deterioration is ensuring proper water management. Homeowners can achieve this by installing a chimney cap, a protective barrier against water entry, and a properly designed and installed chimney crown to direct water away from the structure. Additionally, repairing any cracks or gaps and applying waterproof sealants can help mitigate water damage.
Schedule Your Chimney Cleaning from Champion Chimneys, Inc.
When you need a trusted company for your chimney inspection and chimney cleaning, you can trust our team. Champion Chimneys, Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured chimney service company that has served customers in Baltimore County, Howard County, and Anne Arundel County, Maryland, since 2001. Our team is trained and certified by Certified Chimney Professionals, Inc. (CCP, Inc.). We specialize in all aspects of your chimney system. Whether you need chimney and flue cleaning service or a full chimney rebuild or inspection, contact us at 443-Chimney today and let us fix all your chimney problems. Also, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.