7 Signs You May Need Chimney Repairs This Fall

While your chimney may seem like a permanent part of your home, sometimes it needs repairs. But how do you know when it’s time to get someone in to take a solid look at your chimney and perform repairs on it? This list shows you the most common seven signs of chimney problems that Rochester residents should be aware of before the heating season starts.

7 Signs You May Need Chimney Repairs This Fall

1. Strange smell: Foul, smokey, or other unusual smells can come from excessive creosote buildup, which can impact your indoor air quality and lead to a chimney or house fire.
2. Masonry failure: Masonry chimneys may have interior or exterior damage. Chimney bricks may be damaged or out of place, or water drips inside your fireplace can signify damage.
3. Crown damage: At the top of your chimney, below the metal cap, is your chimney crown. If it has cracks or missing parts, it needs to be repaired before further damage occurs.
4. Worn mortar: Mortar is the grey compound that holds your chimney’s bricks together, and they can wear or crack over time. If you’ve noticed new damage, schedule repairs soon.
5. Interior damage: Not all chimney damage is external. If you’ve got stains or damp around your chimney, schedule repairs before mold and mildew form and cause health issues.
6. Rust: If your damper or firebox is developing rust, there’s a good chance that you’ve got a water leak that is causing the problem and needs to be addressed sooner rather than later.
7. Age: As your chimney ages, it’s more likely to need repairs. Schedule an annual inspection, and occasion, a more in-depth inspection, to stay on top of any possible repairs needed.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs of chimney problems around your Rochester home’s chimney or fireplace, it may be a good idea to have a chimney inspection and repairs performed sooner rather than later. If you need help with your chimney, woodstove, or fireplace, the experienced chimney technicians at Four Winds in Rochester offer Fall chimney repair services and are ready to help. Contact us today to get started!