Should A Brick Chimney Be Sealed?

Having grown up in the southern states, one learns the importance of carrying an umbrella or rain jacket at all times. The region spanning from Mobile, Alabama to the Florida panhandle experiences even more rainfall than Seattle, Washington. Areas from Mobile to around Tallahassee are particularly vulnerable to direct hurricane impact. In this part of the country, rain is most welcomed by farmers. To prepare for adverse weather, homeowners are supplied with pre-cut boards to cover each window. Additionally, local stores offer sandbags for purchase to prevent water infiltration into structures.

Residents in this region have grown accustomed to the prevailing weather conditions and have acquired the knowledge to properly maintain their homes. Regrettably, chimneys often fall victim to neglect, but taking proactive maintenance measures could save your chimney from such a fate. Below, we delineate various types of chimneys.

Masonry

Masonry chimneys, frequently known as brick chimneys, are crafted using a combination of masonry and metal components. These components encompass materials like mortar, brick, concrete, concrete blocks, stone, flue tile, steel, and cast iron. Most masonry chimneys consist of a mix of these materials, often incorporating multiple types. However, the majority of these materials are susceptible to the adverse effects of direct water exposure or infiltration.

Except for stone, the rest of the materials tend to deteriorate more rapidly when exposed to extended water contact. Generally, masonry materials undergo quick degradation due to repetitive cycles of freezing and thawing. This phenomenon occurs when water permeates the materials, freezes, and expands, causing stress. Furthermore, water within the chimney can lead to rust formation on steel and cast iron components, ultimately compromising or corroding these metal parts.

Prefabricated

Prefabricated chimneys are constructed before the initiation of home installation or construction. This method is increasingly favored for incorporating fireplaces into homes. Prefab chimneys function similarly to masonry chimneys but come with a notably lower cost. However, there exists a distinct design difference between the two approaches.

What to Expect During a Chimney Inspection

Your home embodies warmth and pride, and your fireplace should seamlessly contribute to that ambiance. Fireplaces are sources of comfort and coziness, especially during the fall and winter months, emanating warmth through their open fires. However, just like any other component of your residence, your chimney and fireplace system require consistent maintenance. By regularly tending to their upkeep, you ensure their proper and secure functioning.

Scheduling a sweep and inspection is crucial in unveiling the concealed intricacies of your chimney system. This process helps identify necessary repairs, eliminate blockages, and remove potentially flammable materials. Given this, a few pertinent questions come to the forefront.

The Three Levels of Chimney Inspections

Level 1:

A Level 1 chimney inspection is the standard base inspection. The chimney technician will examine the chimney to ensure that there are no structural issues, obstructions, or damage to the chimney system. This inspection covers the easily accessible areas of the chimney exterior, interior, and connections. A Level 1 inspection does not require specialized tools.

Level 2:

Level 2 inspections are required when a change occurs within the chimney system. Such changes can include change of fuel type, shape or material in the flue (such as lining). Adding or replacing an appliance will also require an inspection. Also, this level is mandatory when selling or transferring a property. Malfunctions and damage caused by external factors such as extreme weather or building or chimney fires also call for a Level 2 inspection.

There is no need for specialty tools to perform a Level 2 inspection. However, it does include an internal visual inspection performed with video scanning or other means.