We know that in the springtime, many homeowners are not really thinking about the condition of their chimney. However, if you’ve got any of the following issues with your chimney, it’s so important that you find out and seek services ASAP, for your continued safety and for your health. Check out our list of ways your chimney might be unsafe, and then call our team to schedule an inspection!
Creosote Buildup
An excessive amount of creosote might build up in the chimney after a year or so, and this substance is highly flammable. This black, sticky substance is a normal byproduct of the combustion process, but it’s highly flammable. Too much of it in your chimney could spark flames that move to your home, which is why it’s so important to have a professional clean your chimney each year.
Structural Damage
Structural damage in or outside of the chimney can also contribute to a chimney fire. When there is a crack in the masonry or trouble in the chimney flue, flames can spread more easily to the outside of the home. Chimney cleaning should typically be accompanies by an inspection.
Flashing in Need of Repair
The chimney flashing is the area that seals the top of the chimney—the part you can see above the roof—to your rooftop. This is one of the parts of your chimney most likely to be in need of repairs, as the flashing is tough to design properly and could crack over time.
As it deteriorates, water can make its way into your attic and to your ceiling. This can happen at any time of year, even those times that your chimney is not in use! It might take you a while to notice after mold begins to infiltrate your home. Mold can aggravate allergy symptoms or cause illness, so these repairs can be urgent.
Call 2nd Generation Chimneys, Inc. for chimney repairs in St. Paul, MN and the surrounding areas, or to schedule chimney cleaning.