It’s easy to take your chimney system for granted. Just as you might not think about replacing your roof until it begins to leak, homeowners often don’t worry about their chimney until something goes wrong. Once a homeowner realizes that their is severe damage to their roof and chimney system, it is usually too late! So here are four main causes of chimney damage:
Much like your home’s roof and gutters, exposure to the elements will eventually wear down the chimney system. The metal chimney cap or chase top that prevents snow and rain from falling into the chimney is susceptible to rust.
Flue liners and prefabricated fireplaces have a limited lifespan of 20 to 50 years. The high temperatures of the hot air and smoke that runs through the flue breakdown the flue liner over time. Clay tile flue liners and cast-in-place liners eventually crack and flake while metal flue liners can become warped. This is why it is vital for you to call one of our experts for immediate chimney repair!
Whether your chimney is old or new, it may have hidden defects that need to be resolved. Some defects pose safety risks while others can cause damage to the chimney system. A common hidden defect of an old masonry fireplace that poses a safety risk is a missing flue liner. If your home was built before 1950, it is very possible that these problems exist. It is recommended that your chimney is swept and inspected at least once a year to keep your family and home safe.
There are many types of unforeseen events that can cause damage to a chimney system. High temperatures from a chimney fire, a lightning strike and high winds are all examples of unforeseen events that can leave you with chimney repairs.
Moisture is the greatest enemy of any chimney system. Typically, moisture damage is a secondary cause. Normal wear and tear, hidden defects and unforeseen events can all create pathways for moisture to enter the chimney system. The minute moisture gets into the chimney, it can and will cause a wide range of potentially devastating damage from making the flue liner crack or rust to deteriorating the structural integrity of the chimney itself.
If your chimney needs any repair service at all, give Guaranteed Chimney of Westchester a call! We provide top-notch chimney services across Westchester, Long Island and the five boroughs.