Indianapolis Chimney Masonry Repair: Is Your Chimney or Fireplace Damaged?
Over the lifespan of your fireplace, you might see things such as bricks flaking, your chimney leaning, or other concerning signs that indicate your chimney requires an inspection and some repairs.
Fortunately for those in the Indianapolis area, our team of chimney sweep experts offer all of the services you need to keep your fireplace in top shape for the long haul. Ready to book your appointment? Call or reach out online today.
Common Signs of Chimney Damage
Here are some common symptoms of chimney issues. Look for these when evaluating whether your chimney system requires repairs:
- Smoky smell even without a fire. When moisture builds up on the creosote over time, a constant smoky smell can develop. If this occurs, chimney sweeping is required.
- Smoke coming into the home. If a fire is lit when the outside temperature is warmer than the home interior, the system may begin smoking back – the smoke cannot be drawn from the chimney so it comes back into the home. Repairs may be needed to improve your chimeny’s drafting capabilities. In addition, a blocked or dirty appliance can also cause smoking back, so the flue should be inspected and swept.
- Rotting smell near the fireplace. It’s unfortunate, but it happens – a dead animal stuck in the ventilation area can result in this odor. The area should be swept clean and a compatibly-sized chimney cap should be installed to prevent future animal invasions. If a cap is already in place, one of our professionals can inspect it for gaps or cracks.
- Powdery white substance on the exterior brick. This condition is called efflorescence and it indicates water damage. One of our professionals can clean it off and apply a water repellent to the brickwork.
- Rust is appearing on the chimney cap or chase cover. This is usually due to improper drainage that allows water to pool on the cap or chase top, eventually leading to rust. The affected chimeny cap or chase cover should be replaced.
- Dripping noise coming from the fireplace area. This may be caused by a water leak, so be sure that the damper is fully closed. If your system has a top sealing damper or a cap, this component should prevent rain from entering the area. However, if the area is sealed and the dripping noise continues, a chimney inspection can help us discover the source of the leak. Ignoring a leak can result in damage that requires costly repairs.
- Cracks or damage in the firebox. A prefabricated fireplace typically features a refractory panel on the sides and rear of the fireplace, which looks like bricks. Depending on its size, a heat refractor may need to be installed or the panel may require replacement. Own a masonry setup? Have any cracked bricks in the firebox or refractory panels inspected by a professional.
- Interior or exterior bricks are crumbling. This condition, known as spalling, results from water damage and most commonly occurs in a masonry system that may or may not have a flue liner. Spalling is usually irreparable and, instead, requires replacing the entire section of bricks. Our pros can perform an evaluation to determine whether this complex and costly repair is necessary.
What Things Can Damage a Chimney?
There are several things that commonly damage chimneys:
- Neglect
- Wind
- Water
- Smoke
- Debris
- Creosote
- Animals
- …to name a few
Nesting animals, harsh weather, and general wear and tear can cause damage to the brick and mortar internally, meaning the damage won’t always be obvious. This can lead to leaks, breaks, and cracks that require chimney and masonry repairs. The best way to ensure that the system is operating properly is to have an inspection performed by a fireplace and chimney professional.
In addition to all that, many newer homes feature fireplaces with chimney liners that prevent smoke from entering the home. And a fireplace in an older home may not have a chimney liner at all, which can contribute to erosion over time. Though the construction of older and newer systems is similar, the materials used can vary greatly. The good news for Indianapolis homeowners, is that we can help with whatever system you’re working with.
Why Trust The Mad Hatter Professionals?
The experienced professionals at The Mad Hatter know the best ways to correct issues resulting from excess water, bad weather, or anything else life throws at your chimney.
The most common repairs we address include:
- Install stainless steel liner system for fireplaces
- Install aluminum liner system for furnace and water heater flues
- Remove and replace damaged factory-built fireplaces
- Install or replace chimney caps
- Install or replace chase covers
- Install or replace damper handles and dampers
- Repair chimney crowns or apply CrownSeal
- Apply ChimneySaver water repellent
- Install heat reflectors
- Replace refractory panels that have cracked
Before using your fireplace or woodstove, be sure all necessary repairs and updates are completed so everything is up to code and operating safely. By having regular maintenance performed, you correct small issues before they become larger and more expensive problems.
Need Chimeny & Fireplace Repair Services? Reach Out Now
Remember that, regardless of where you live, your chimney system can incur damage – no one is immune. This is why chimney evaluations are recommended annually, as well as in areas that have experienced strong storms over the past year. The inspection will identify whether any damage has occurred. It is extremely important to protect the system from absorbing excess water, which can result in rusted caps or chases, cracks in bricks, and more.
If you would like to schedule chimney and masonry repair and maintenance services, please contact us at 317-596-0200. To schedule your appointment in the future, you can call us or fill out our scheduling form.
Are chimney leaks giving you issues? Water damage repair is another chimney service we’re proud to offer.