When it comes to scheduling chimney inspections, most homeowners get them in during fall, right before the cold months set in. What many do not realize is that springtime presents the perfect opportunity for another check-up. A post-winter inspection will ensure that everything is fine after being put through the wear and tear that accompanies the cold and frigid weather. By having an expert come out and look for any potential leaks or cracks in the brickwork, you can rest assured that your chimney will stay in top condition year-round.
Freeze-Thaw Process
The main thing you will want to observe is the possibility of damage due to the freeze-thaw process. The freeze-thaw process occurs when the brickwork has absorbed excess water. This water then freezes throughout the winter, causing the mortar and other materials to expand. When the warm months arrive, the water thaws. The entire process puts unnecessary pressure on the chimney, which can lead to a lot of potential damage down the line. If you find yourself facing this issue, seeking ways to remedy the situation and prevent it from happening again in the future is crucial for your chimney health.
Preventative Measures
To prevent this problem from occurring in the future, you will first need to address any cracks or other damage that has been caused. A chimney professional will know exactly where to look and how to go about fixing any issues. Patching up broken parts of the chimney can be tricky and often weather conditions have to be ideal before this process can be completed. The best option is to hire an expert to ensure that the job is done right.
Next, you will want to waterproof your brickwork to be certain that it will not soak in more water throughout time and cause further damage. The more opportunity that water is given to penetrate your masonry, the more deterioration it will cause and you will be left with a chimney that does not function as efficiently as possible. It may even cause the chimney to eventually settle or trigger a collapse, both of which are very costly to fix. Waterproofing now will save a lot of time and money in the long run, so get on the phone with an expert today and schedule an appointment.
We Can Help
At Wells & Sons Chimney Service, we have all of the tools and services you need to get your chimney in top condition. The winter weather has surely put it through some wear and tear, but our certified experts can perform inspections and cleanings, ensuring that every part of your fireplace is safe for use. This is the ideal time for fix-ups and repairs, so give us a call today at (610) 473-6000 and schedule an appointment!