Chimney Problems That Need Immediate Attention

Most people don’t pay much attention to their chimneys – as long as everything’s working as it should. But when problems start, swift attention is often needed to prevent ongoing damage and dangerous operating conditions.

Doodlebuggers Fireplace, Grill & Outdoor Store of Pensacola, FL, and Destin, FL, would like to cover several chimney problems that need to be addressed right away. We’ll also share solutions to these problems and provide some tips to help you avoid them in the future.

Don’t ignore these chimney problems!

Keep an eye out for the problems below and get them resolved as quickly as you can.

Problem: Cracked bricks

When bricks begin to crack, split or spall (flake), they’ll continue until they either fall away from the masonry or crumble completely. Seriously damaged chimney bricks can lead to:

• Widespread chimney leaks and damage throughout the system
• A chimney that leans to one side
• A chimney that eventually collapses and possibly injures someone or damages the property

Solution: Have damaged bricks replaced or have sections of the chimney rebuilt.

Problem: Crumbling mortar between the bricks

Mortar holds masonry bricks together. If the mortar is crumbling, it will weaken the chimney structure and can lead to leaning or a collapse. Areas of missing mortar will also allow water to move into the system.

Solution: We recommend tuckpointing, a process that replaces decayed mortar with a strong new compound.

Problem: Chimney fire

Chimney fires happen more often than most people realize. Many of these fires are relatively small and start and go out on their own. Excess sooty stains around the top of the chimney may indicate a recent chimney fire.

Signs of an active chimney fire include tapping and rumbling sounds along with a large volume of dark smoke leaving either end of the chimney.

Solution: Schedule an inspection and then address the problem(s) that led to the fire. The most common cause of chimney fires is excess creosote built up in the flue.

Problem: Smoke backups

If smoke is backing up out of your fireplace, it either means there’s an obstruction in the flue or an insufficient draft. Tree debris, accumulated creosote and the nests of small animals are common causes of obstruction.

Weak drafts can be caused by a house that’s too airtight, kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans, and a chimney flue that’s the wrong size for the fireplace.

Smoke backups are dangerous because of the carbon monoxide carried in the smoke. Carbon monoxide is invisible and odorless, but it’s known to be potentially fatal when inhaled.

Solution: Have the chimney swept to remove debris. Crack a window and turn off exhaust fans to improve the draft. Have the flue inspected for correct sizing.

Other problems to watch for

• White stains on the exterior chimney masonry
• A squeaky damper that’s hard to operate
• Rust on the chimney cap or chase top
• Damaged chimney cap mesh
• Unseated or missing chimney flashing
• Water in the firebox
• Damp walls or the ceiling near the chimney
• Musty or pungent odors coming from the fireplace
• The sounds of animals in the chimney

Discuss these issues with your chimney service technician immediately.

The three best ways to prevent chimney problems down the line

1. Have your chimney professionally swept (cleaned) once a year.
2. Schedule annual chimney inspections.
3. Make repairs as soon as they’re needed.

Keep your chimney in top shape

Doodlebuggers is here to help keep your chimney going strong all year long. We offer chimney sweeping, licensed chimney inspections and all types of chimney repair services. When your chimney needs help, give us a call or get in touch by using our contact form.