Chimneys are an integral part of many homes in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. Over time, they can develop issues that compromise both the structural integrity of your home and the safety of its occupants.
Absolute Roof Solutions specializes in identifying and repairing chimney problems, ensuring your home remains protected from the elements.
Chimney Terminology
First of all, it is best to know some terminology regarding chimneys.
Pot or Cap - a pot is typically made of concrete in the Pacific Northwest and may have a lid. It is called a cap when made of metal. Meant to protect debris from falling into the flue and increase draft for fires below
Crown - typically tapers or dome-shaped mortar or concrete on the top level of the brick or stone to aid in water deflection and secure the masonry or stone below
Mortar - the bonding material between masonry or stone
Pointing - filling the gaps between bricks or stones etc
Repointing - renewing the pointing at the external part of masonry or stone joints
Spalling brick - when the brick chips, breaks, cracks or crumbles, eventually leading to the face of the brick breaking away, leaving the interior of the brick exposed.
Flue - the duct where smoke exits the home.
Flashing - Metal surrounding a chimney where it meets the roof, which protects the chimney from water runoff
How to tell if your chimney needs repair or inspection
From the ground, homeowners can look for signs that their chimneys may need repair or inspection.
Key symptoms include:
- Moss or vegetation growth on the chimney, especially near the top
- Absence of a cap or lid covering the chimney’s top
- Discolored or deteriorating bricks
- Missing or damaged mortar, often with moss or plant growth
- Leaning chimneys, indicating a potential structural problem
- Interior staining on ceilings near the chimney
- Dampness or drafts near the fireplace
- Rusty flashing, which could allow water to seep into your home
Usual chimney problems
In the past, chimneys were designed for homes burning wood or coal as the primary heat source.
With modern gas systems or disuse, the lack of heat in the chimney flue means moisture can easily saturate the bricks and mortar. Rainwater can penetrate bricks in under 1.5 hours, leading to water intrusion in the home.
Additionally, Vancouver's fluctuating weather causes brick expansion and contraction, pushing out mortar and causing structural damage over time.
Common chimney repairs
The type of chimney repair depends on the severity of the problem. Typical solutions include:
- Installing a chimney cap to prevent water and debris from entering
- Repointing and sealing bricks and mortar to restore structural integrity
- Reducing chimney size or, in extreme cases, complete chimney removal
Most chimney repairs can be completed within 1-2 days, depending on the job's complexity.
Risks of ignoring chimney problems
Neglecting chimney maintenance can result in several costly and potentially dangerous issues, including:
- Water stains on ceilings and walls
- Structural problems that affect the stability of the chimney and surrounding roof
- Growth of mould and mildew inside the home
- Roof damage, which can lead to leaks and other water-related issues
- Jeopardizing your home insurance, as many companies are now closely monitoring the maintenance of key structural components like chimneys
Chimney maintenance is essential
Even though chimneys are no longer used for their original purpose in many homes, they remain one of the few constantly exposed openings to the elements. Regular chimney maintenance is crucial to preventing structural damage, leaks, and health issues for the occupants of the home.
At Absolute Roof Solutions, we take the safety and integrity of your home seriously. If you suspect your chimney needs attention, contact us today for a thorough inspection.