Nothing spells out a comfortable and charming home more than a brick
fireplace with a chimney. With continued use and because of the effects of
weathering, however, chimney cracks will affect the chimney. These
cracks are caused by solar exposure, which causes the masonry to expand,
and exposure to cold during winter, which severely causes the chimney
liner and flue to contract. The cumulative effect is massive shrinking. If your chimney shows signs of cracking, here are quick home repair options that you can undertake.
Find the cracks. First, find the cracks. Do this by
inspecting the exterior of the chimney. Check if the chimney is
beginning to lean to one side, which can mean that the support structure
has given in. do this from all angles, since a leaning chimney is not
always apparent depending on where you are standing. Next, examine the
brick work on the chimney, and check if there are bricks that have
fallen off. Climb the roofing and assess the condition of the mortar in
the chimney, since cracks can develop here. Look for obstructions such
as hives and nests on the cover.
Seal with masonry caulking substances. If the mortar
has cracked, use caulking substances to repair this. First, remove the
broken down mortar by using a cold chisel. Scrap away at the mortar
until the chimney structure is visible. Take ready to mix mortar and use
this to cover the flue. You will need a trowel to help you shape the
mortar. Shape the mortar into a slant that covers the entire flue. The
mortar will seal the chimney flue from rain and dirt. Keep in mind that
the mortar should remain damp for several days in order for it to cure.
Curing allows the mortar to withstand the rain and heat.
Clean Sweep Chimney Service is located in Southeastern Wisconsin and services Milwaukee, Waukesha, Slinger, and the entire Southeastern Wisconsin area. If you need Chimney repair or Chimney Cleaning Call us at (414) 483-9996.
Our Website is at http://cleansweepwisconsin.com
