Is your chimney leaking? Do you want to get some chimney repairs done but are afraid it won’t look professional? Don’t worry because we’re here to help you out. 

Apart from being a decorative element that adds heritage and beauty to your living room and improves your house’s curb appeal, a chimney also plays the crucial role of heating your home in tough weather conditions.

What chimney damage can look like:

One of the most crucial steps in repairing your chimney is to diagnose the problem. A damaged chimney would usually show the following signs:

• Missing or loose bricks
• Tilted structure
• Water damage in the fireplace
• Buildup of rust in the damper
• Cracks in mortar joints
• Vegetation growing around it

Repairing your chimney like a pro: The ultimate guide:

While boosting your house’s overall value, your chimney requires you to invest in its repairs every once in a while. So it can continue mitigating the build-up of harmful gases like CO in your home. 

Here are some ways you can rejuvenate your damaged chimney professionally:

a. Safety comes first in chimney repairs:

Experts advise taking as many safety precautions before starting your work. This can include:

• Use non-slippery shoes.
• Utilize a dust mask and safety glasses.
• Get a sturdy ladder and ask for help from a spotter.

b. Repointing & tuckpointing the joints:

To maintain your chimney’s structural integrity and mitigate water infiltration, you need to do the following:

• Repointing means replacing all your chimney’s mortar joints.
• Tuckpointing is replacing damaged mortar from the joints with fresh mortar.

c. Sealing the exterior:

You can reduce the chances of water damage as well as increase the lifespan of the repairs by simply applying water-repellent sealant on the external surface of your chimney. But make sure that you’ve already ruled out any ventilation issues.  

d. Installing a new liner: 

It is recommended to use a ceramic or stainless steel-based liner inside the chimney flue when doing in-depth chimney repairs and cleaning.

e. Reconstruction may be required:

If there is a lot of damage, then doing a complete restoration may be a good idea. From a partial rebuilding to a complete one, the restoration process can help you keep your original design with the added benefits of some upgrades.

Can’t DIY? Ask a professional:

If all of these steps feel too overwhelming to you or you don’t have the required expertise, call a certified chimney repair professional or look up ‘chimney repairs near me’, and they’ll help you out. 

Let’s analyze some advantages of getting professional assistance:

a. High-quality repair materials that last a lifetime:

The workmanship of a professional stands out from that of a beginner. Through the use of industry best practices and protocols, as well as good-quality materials and solutions, they make sure that your chimney problems don’t haunt you for a long time.

b. Don’t worry, you’re insured:

Any well-known repair contractor or company provides the required insurance for the services that they offer. So that if you ever encounter any potential liabilities, you have a warranty on the repairs you got done.

c. Your safety is their priority:

Being a task that involves a lot of safety risks, attempting any repairs without the proper equipment or training can sabotage your own and your family’s safety. Which is why professional help is advised.

d. Getting it right the first time:

When a newbie tries to handle a chimney repair job, there is a high chance that they may misdiagnose the problem and increase the risks for further damage. Whereas a job handled by a professional would very likely target the exact cause of the problem and resolve it at a root level, hence mitigating further damage. 

Conclusion: 

Being one of the most crucial parts of your home, your chimney requires a lot of attention. If you’ve noticed some recent damage to your chimney, it may be time to repair those leaks or cracks. If you don’t think you’ll be able to do those fireplace chimney repairs yourself, look up ‘chimney repairs in my area’ today, and the right professionals will help you out.

FAQs:

What kind of contractor would I want to reach out to for a leaky chimney?

While many people would call a roofer for this issue, contacting a certified chimney sweep would be the right choice.

How to seal around a chimney?

After checking your chimney for any ventilation issues, you can simply apply a water-repellant sealant.  

How to fix a leak along a chimney and a roofline?

If it is due to a corroded or worn-out surface, use a sealant like FlashSeal to fix it. 

Is it bad if water is dripping through my chimney during heavy rain?

Yes, if your cap is intact and water is still leaking, call a professional immediately.

How much does a chimney repair usually cost?

It entirely depends on the repair services you need. You can reach out to companies that offer a free quote.