Does Your Chimney Need Repairs? 7 Signs Every Homeowner Can Look For

Does your chimney need repairs? Most homeowners aren't chimney professionals, and much of the chimney itself is hidden behind other structural features. You may wonder how you might even know if it's time to make repairs. The good news is that any chimney owner can observe signs of trouble right from the comfort of their home or the ground outside it. Here are a few signs you can look for today. 

1. Damaged Mortar Joints

Take a look at the bricks or stone on the outside of the chimney. Mortar joints are the spaces between bricks and individual stonework which are filled with mortar. This keeps the masonry together and protects the interior from the elements. If the mortar is cracked, loose, insufficient, or missing, it's time to fill the gaps for a tight fit.

2. Tile Falling Inside

The chimney is lined with a vertical shaft called a flue. This is where the smoke, heat, and even some fire travels up through the chimney to exit safely out of the top. This flue is made from nonflammable materials like clay, concrete, and steel. Some of this material, though, can wear off or become damaged over time. If bits and pieces of your liner tiles fall down into the firebox, it doesn't provide a protective shield any more. 

3. A Noticeable Lean

Inspect your chimney from the ground at different angles. Is there a visible lean or sag? This is a sign of potential failure since chimneys should stand straight and tall. Not only could this indicate problems with the brick or stonework, but it also means that cracks and spaces are likely to have formed where the base meets the roofing or siding. 

4. White Discoloration

What color is your chimney and its components? Is there a white discoloration on the surface of bricks, metal, stones, or wood? This is known as efflorescence, and it's a sign of moisture. The actual discoloration may come off fairly easily, but that doesn't address why it's there. Moisture behind the scenes could be getting into the chimney or seeping out through it into walls and roof decking. 

5. Damaged Chimney Cap

The top of your chimney should have a cap over it to prevent rain, snow, pests, and debris from getting inside the vertical shaft. Take a look at your cap from nearby vantage points, perhaps with a pair of binoculars. Is it missing? It should be replaced right away. Look for signs of damage, including cracks, rust, being off-kilter, or missing pieces. 

6. Dripping Water

As mentioned, the chimney and its cap work to keep things out of your chimney. And clearly, water should not be showing up inside the chimney or its protective structures. Look for water drips inside and out. Listen inside, especially during light rains. Hear any drips? See evidence of moisture rings or buildup on the bottom of the firebox? Then it's time to make sure your chimney still keeps the elements outside. 

7. Unwanted Intruders

Other than Santa Claus making his annual visit, nothing and no one should be coming down the chimney. However, if the exterior has gaps, cracks, missing mortar, and other problems, pests can get inside. This isn't the only entry point, but pest infestations may be an indicator that they're getting into your house through damage you can fix. 

Have you noticed one or more of these damage indicators? Want confirmation of something that may or may not be a problem? Start by meeting with the professionals at Lifetime Chimney. We'll assess your chimney's condition, and effectiveness so you can make the best choices to keep it safe, functional, and attractive. Call today for an appointment.