The use of chimneys, especially in places with freezing winters like the Bronx, Queens, Manhattan, Long Island, Brooklyn, and Richmond Hill, is predominant. Almost every house has a fireplace to keep you warm and snug. Most chimneys are made of brick, stone, and mortar, making them durable structures that can last for years.
Nonetheless, a leaning chimney or cracks in a chimney is a common sight. Though durable, the chimney deteriorates over time, leading to numerous problems. Sometimes, you fail to notice them or deliberately ignore the damages. You need routine inspection by chimney repair contractors Brooklyn to evaluate the condition of your chimney and stay away from potential hazards.
What are the risks of a damaged chimney? Why restoration is necessary? In this blog, we have highlighted the potential risks of extensive chimney damage necessitating timely restoration. Let’s learn about them.
Prevalent Chimney Issues
In its lifetime, a chimney goes through multiple issues due to exposure to extreme temperatures, moisture, settling, debris, and corrosion. The result is you face the following problems:
- Cracks and Leaks- Cracks are common in every masonry structure. Your chimney has also got many of them. Smaller cracks may not initially cause much harm, but when left untreated can lead to leaks. As cracks expand, water finds its way through the gaps into the interiors. So, you have a leaky chimney, which eventually causes structural damage.
- Spalling- When the structure becomes weak, crumbling mortar and loosening bricks occur. The structural integrity of the chimney comes at stake! Only a licensed chimney contractor can resolve the issue by thorough restoration.
- Flue Liner Damage- Generally circular or rectangular, the flue liner runs through the entire chimney length. It is a critical component of a chimney that transports smoke and soot out of the house. Additionally, the flue liner protects the bricks and stones from direct heat exposure. Damage to the flue liner causes hot air to escape. The chimney malfunctions.
- Obstructions- Creosote build-up, debris accumulation, bird nests, etc., can block the chimney passage. On the most unfortunate occasion, it can result in a chimney fire.
The Need for Chimney Restoration
- Secure Structural Integrity- What happens when a chimney is structurally not sound? Lives and property are at risk! Leaks, flue liner damage, and spalling can severely affect the structural stability of your chimney. It compromises the overall constructional integrity of your property. Chimney restoration services are obligatory to ensure your chimney’s health is sound and can work efficiently.
- Enhanced Safety- Blockage in the flue liner can be life-threatening. Creosote accumulation is substantially flammable. It can catch fire and release toxic smoke within the house. Without adequate ventilation, the smoke can choke you due to the presence of carbon monoxide. It is a horrific scenario nobody wants to face! Thankfully, timely restoration can save you from such consequences.
- Improve Efficiency- A severely damaged chimney becomes inefficient over time. It does not warm up your house adequately. You may have to burn more wood to keep heat up the interiors. It primarily happens when hot air escapes and cold air comes in. The functionality of your chimney deters. You can restore your chimney to regain its efficiency.
- Boosted Curb Appeal- Apart from improving safety, efficiency, and structural integrity, chimney restoration helps to promote aesthetic value. A damaged chimney is undeniably unsightly. It decreases your 0property value as well. Call the real chimney repair experts to fix the issues and restore its look.
To conclude, chimney restoration is a prerequisite for a safer and healthier home!
