Chimneys are important to building structures, especially throughout cold winter months. They help keep the harmful fumes produced by a fireplace from coming inside the home, keeping the air inside clean and safe to breathe. While the chimney is a completely separate structure from the roof structure, it is essential to not neglect its regular inspection and routine maintenance, as it could potentially become a source of harmful carbon monoxide poisoning.

Why Evaluate?

There are many reasons to inspect the chimney. The top end of the structure is essentially left open to multiple outdoor elements and the opposite end is constantly exposed to extraordinary heat, which makes the whole entire framework more prone to harm.

The most common type of problem to arise is cracks, with numerous different causation factors. Thermal fatigue is one of the most typical incidents. The variation between inside and outside temperatures can easily cause the chimney to crack, establishing a passageway for leaks.

The flashing that connects the roof and the chimney can also work loose from thermal expansion of the roofing layers. Even heavy winds could allow the flashing to come loose, rendering it ineffective in the protection it should provide. This particular situation can trigger leaks around the exterior section of the structure, permitting water to soak into the underlying roofing layers.

Chimneys are most often used throughout the cold winter season; however, many things can occur in the interim. A feathered creature might nest inside the chimney flue during the summer months, producing an obstruction. Soot could add up over several years of use and gradually narrow the flue passageway, rendering it ineffective in exhausting hazardous gases.

When to Examine

Most chimneys are constructed from brick masonry and occasionally cement; a few are made from prefabricated steel. Irrespective of what material have been utilized, it is critical to conduct evaluations as follows:

Annually

An annual examination really should be done several months prior to the winter season beginning to ensure that any repairs could be made with adequate time remaining prior to when the winter season actually starts. During the months when the chimney is not in use, dirt could well have accumulated. Birds have a habit of nesting in the flue, which can cause a partial or even complete clog. Damage might also have taken place from prior winter's usage and necessitate repair work. An annual exam can help mitigate most of these problems.

Seismic Events

In the aftermath of an earthquake, it is crucial to investigate the chimney for fractures. Even the steel variety ought to be evaluated, as it could also be harmed.

Serious Storms

Fierce wind and hail have the ability to weaken masonry and cause gaps in the flashing. Make sure to check out the outside of the chimney after every storm to check for any new damage.

Leaking

When evidence of a leak shows up on a ceiling, the chimney must be checked out as well as the roof since both can be the cause of leaks. A crack may have occurred or the flashing may have worked loose, permitting water to seep through into the underlying material.

Essential Safety Tips

When climbing onto a roof, there is a great risk of falling. When carrying out a chimney evaluation, it would certainly be preferable to do so during clear weather when the roof is not so perilous. Donning rubber-soled shoes for more traction would be wise as well as having a spotter nearby who could react promptly in case of a fall. It would also be a great safety precaution to use a safety line when working on top of the roof. If the pitch of the roof is too steep or too high, it's better to leave the task to a professional contractor.

Chimneys are an important part of a home and should never ever be overlooked.