If you have a brick or masonry chimney that is decades old, it is important to know the signs of disrepair. A damaged chimney can be very dangerous; it can put your home at risk of a chimney fire or the chimney could fall, causing injury or property damage. Here are a few signs that it may be time to schedule a chimney inspection:

• White substance. The white substance that accumulates on chimneys is called effloresence and is caused by excess moisture. While this white staining is not harmful, it is a sign of too much moisture that can damage your masonry.
• Leaning chimney. Masonry chimneys depend on a solid, even foundation. If a chimney is leaning, the foundation most likely has settled. It is only a matter of time before gravity wins the war and the structure begins to fall.
• Cracks and spalling. When the masonry begins to show signs of erosion, you need chimney repair. Cracks between the bricks and spalling, which is when pieces of masonry begin chipping off the outside of the chimney, are signs of damage from erosion or moisture.
• Shaling. Sometimes the problem is inside the chimney. Shaling is when small shingles begin to fall off inside the flue, accumulating in the fireplace. If the flue lining is damaged it can put your home at risk for a fire, so don’t wait to schedule an inspection.

Considering the important role your chimney places in your heating system, it is vital to keep it in good repair. If your chimney has any of these signs, schedule a chimney inspection with your local chimney service contractor that handles masonry and foundation repairs.

Posted on behalf of:
Anglin’s Foundation & Masonry Repairs
Marietta, GA
(770) 422-2924