A Guide on How to Get Your Chimney Ready for the Holidays

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Chimneys are essential to any home, and it’s important to keep them clean. Not only does this ensure that your home is safe, but it also helps to keep your heating bills down.

 

There are a few different ways to clean your chimney, but the most important thing is to do it regularly. Depending on how often you use your fireplace, you should clean your chimney at least once a year.

 

If you don’t use your fireplace often, you may be able to get away with cleaning it every other year. However, if you use it frequently, you may need to clean it more often. And as the holidays are approaching, if you haven’t cleaned your chimney, now is probably the best time!

 

In today’s article, let’s explore how to prepare your chimney for the holidays! Here’s what you need to know:

 

How to Clean Your Chimney

 

As the weather gets colder and the holidays approach, many of us will be firing up our chimneys to keep our homes warm and toasty. But before you light that first fire of the season, it’s important to ensure your chimney is clean. A dirty chimney can cause a fire, and no one wants that!

 

There are two ways to clean your chimney: you can do it yourself or hire a professional sweep. If you decide to do it yourself, there are a few things you need to know.

 

The DIY Way

 

First, you need to purchase a chimney brush. There are different sizes of chimney brushes, so make sure you get one that’s the right size for your chimney. Once you have your brush, you must climb up on your roof and remove the chimney cap. Be careful when doing this, as you don’t want to fall off the roof!

 

Next, you need to lower the brush down the chimney. You’ll need to move it up and down to make sure you’re getting all the soot and debris out of the chimney. Once you’ve done that, you can put the chimney cap back on, and you’re done!

 

Hiring Professional Chimney Cleaners

 

As the weather gets colder, many homeowners begin to think about firing up their furnaces and making sure their chimneys are clean. Many people try to save money by cleaning their chimneys, but if you hire a professional chimney sweep, they will take care of everything for you. 

 

  1. Safety

 

Cleaning your chimney can be extremely dangerous. There’s a reason that most homeowners insurance policies don’t cover damages caused by falling off of a ladder. If you don’t feel comfortable climbing a ladder or getting up on your roof, you should leave this job to the professionals.

 

  1. Time

 

Cleaning a chimney properly takes a lot of time. You need to sweep the entire length of the chimney and then do a thorough inspection to make sure there are no blockages. If you don’t have the time to do this properly, you’re better off hiring a professional.

 

  1. Cost

 

Many people try to save money by cleaning their own chimneys, but this is a false economy. If you don’t do a good job, you could end up causing damage to your chimney that will be expensive to repair. Hiring a professional who will do a good job and save you money, in the long run, is always better.

 

  1. Peace of Mind

 

Once you hire a professional chimney cleaner, you can rest assured that your chimney is clean and safe. This will give you peace of mind when you start using your furnace for the winter.

 

The Bottom Line

 

It is important to clean your chimney before the holidays to prevent any fires from occurring. This can be done by hiring a professional or doing it yourself with a brush and ladder. Whichever method you choose, be sure to take all the necessary safety precautions.

 

Red Robin Masonry is Toronto’s most trusted masonry company. Our masonry services include brickwork, chimney work, parging, stonework and much more! Contact us today to learn more or request a quote for masonry services in Ontario, Canada.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait Until the Fall Rush to Get Your Fireplace Serviced

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Anyone with a fireplace understands how amazing it feels to light a fire during the cool days of fall. Everyone wants to keep warm during the colder months, so if you’re planning to get maintenance done for your fireplace, make sure you don’t do it during the fall rush.

 

Here, your trusted masonry company in Toronto shares what you need to know:

 

What Is the Fall Rush?

 

The “fall rush” is the time of year when most people start to use their fireplaces more frequently. This usually happens when the weather gets colder, and people want to find ways to keep warm.

 

What Happens If You Wait Until the Fall Rush Before Getting Your Fireplace Serviced?

 

If you wait until the fall rush to get your fireplace serviced, you may not even be able to get an appointment with a qualified technician. This is because the demand for fireplace services increases significantly during the fall as people try to prepare their fireplaces for the winter. As a result, you may have to wait several weeks or even months to get your fireplace serviced. This can be problematic if any issues with your fireplace need to be addressed before you can use it.

 

In addition, if you wait until the fall rush to get your fireplace serviced, you may pay more for the service. This is because many companies charge higher prices during the fall rush due to the increased demand. As a result, it is generally advisable to get your fireplace serviced during the summer or early fall before the rush begins.

 

Why Are Fireplace Inspections and Maintenance Service Important?

 

If you have a fireplace in your house, it’s essential to have it inspected and serviced regularly. Here’s why:

 

  • Safety: A fireplace is a potential fire hazard, so it’s important to ensure it’s in good working condition. An inspection will identify potential safety hazards, and a good maintenance service will keep your fireplace in excellent working order.

 

  • Efficiency: A well-maintained fireplace will be more efficient, using less fuel and producing less pollution.

 

  • Aesthetics: A fireplace is often a focal point in a room, so you want it to look its best. Regular inspection and maintenance will keep it looking good for years to come.

 

  •  Value: A fireplace is a valuable asset, so keeping it in good condition is important. Regular inspection and maintenance will help to preserve its value.

 

  • Peace of Mind: Knowing that your fireplace is in good working condition will give you peace of mind. A regular inspection and maintenance service will help ensure your fireplace is safe and efficient.

 

What You Can Expect from a Fireplace and Chimney Maintenance

 

Here are a few things that you can expect from a professional fireplace and chimney service:

 

  • A thorough inspection of your fireplace and chimney: This will help identify potential problems that could cause a fire or other damage.

 

  • Cleaning of your fireplace and chimney: This will remove any soot or debris that has built up over time.

 

  • A safety check of your fireplace and chimney: This will ensure that everything is in working order and that there are no potential hazards.

 

  • A report of their findings: This will help you understand what needs to be done to keep your fireplace in good working condition.

 

  • A quote for any repairs or services that may be needed: This will help you budget for any necessary work.

 

Conclusion

 

Getting your fireplace and chimney serviced before the fall rush is crucial. This is because during the fall rush, a lot of people are trying to get their fireplaces serviced, and it can be challenging to get an appointment. Additionally, if you wait until the fall rush before getting fireplace maintenance or chimney repair services, you may end up paying more for the service.

 

Working with a professional fireplace maintenance company can ensure that your fireplace is in good hands. They will help you keep it clean and safe, so you can enjoy it for many years to come.

 

Red Robin Masonry offers chimney repair services in Toronto and nearby areas. Schedule the maintenance of your chimney today!

 

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Here Are the Key Indicators that Your Chimney Needs a Repair

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A chimney is a great feature of any home. However, should the time come that it needs to be repaired, it’s essential to know the signs to look out for. 

 

Here, we’ll cover some of the indicators that your chimney is due for a repair. 

 

The Mortar Between the Bricks Has Deteriorated

 

Mortar joints keep bricks from falling off your chimney. But after years of exposure to snow, ice, water, and seasonal temperature changes, the mortar can become saturated with water. 

If the mortar joints are too damaged, they might not be able to support the weight of your chimney’s bricks. Which means you could be in danger! The best thing to do is a visual check of your chimney’s mortar joints from the rooftops.

 

The Chimney Crown Is Damaged or Missing

 

A chimney crown guards against the penetration of water into the bricks, which could cause damage. It also prevents damage from weather and moisture by acting as a barrier.

 

Cracked or damaged chimney crowns allow water to seep into your chimney, causing many problems similar to a leaky chimney.

 

Additionally, a cracked crown will worsen over time, allowing pests to find their way into your chimney or home!

 

Water Leaking in the Chimney

 

If your chimney leaks, you need to plan chimney repairs. For several reasons, a leaky chimney is a big red flag for home safety. Rain entering your chimney introduces moisture to your home that you don’t want. Moisture can lead to mold, and mold can start damaging your property. Even brick won’t hold up against excessive moisture over time which can lead to significant issues.

 

White Stains on the Walls

 

The term “efflorescence” refers to a white substance that appears on the outside of your chimney. It is pretty simple to remove this staining, but cleaning it does not solve the moisture problem which causes the residue.  

 

The presence of white stains is a clear indication that there is excess moisture in your masonry. If moisture is not dealt with, you may experience premature deterioration of your chimney and other moisture-related problems.

 

Rust on Your Damper or Firebox

 

If rust appears on your damper or firebox, you can be sure that there is too much moisture in your chimney. You may not notice rust on the damper readily, but if it doesn’t seal well or operate correctly, it could be because it’s rusting.

 

If your chimney shows signs of rusting, there could be severe damage, such as cracked flue tiles. Get the help of a professional to inspect the flue lining and ensure there isn’t a breach in the chimney system, which could ultimately cause a house fire.

 

Spalling of Your Chimney Structure

 

Spalling is a problem that occurs on the outside of your chimney. You’ll know you have spalling when you see masonry bits around the structure’s bottom. Spalling happens when moisture enters masonry, which can force the surface of the brick, concrete, or stone to peel off, pop out, or flake off. To prevent continued crumbling and eventual destruction of your chimney, you must replace any damaged masonry.

 

Conclusion

 

When you notice the key signs mentioned above, you need to get your chimney inspected and repaired by professionals. Remember, the most important thing to remember is safety.

 

Are you planning to do a chimney rebuild in Toronto? Red Robin Masonry is a full-service masonry company that offers chimney rebuild and repair services. We are experts in all types of masonry work, including brick, stone and stucco. Contact us today!

 

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What are 6 Common Chimney Repairs You’ll Probably Need

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What are 6 Common Chimney Repairs You’ll Probably Need?

 

There are a few different types of common chimney repairs that homeowners should be aware of. These repairs are usually necessary due to the fact that the chimney is constantly exposed to the elements, which can cause damage over time.

 

The following are the six most common chimney repairs that homeowners may need to deal with at some point:

 

  1. Creosote Buildup

 

One of the most common problems homeowners face with their chimneys is creosote buildup. Creosote is a byproduct of burning wood, and it can accumulate on the inside of your chimney over time. If this buildup is not removed, it can eventually catch fire, which can cause serious damage to your home.

 

  1. Cracked Flue

 

Another common problem that homeowners face is a cracked flue. The flue is the part of the chimney that goes up inside your home, and it can crack over time due to the expansion and contraction that occurs as the temperature changes. A cracked flue can allow smoke and other dangerous gases to enter your home, so it is important to have it repaired as soon as possible.

 

  1. Damaged Flashing

 

The flashing is the part of the chimney that seals the area where the chimney meets the roof. Over time, the flashing can become damaged and allow water to enter your home, which can cause serious damage.

 

  1. Crown Rebuilds

 

The crown is the top part of the chimney, and it can become damaged over time. A common problem with the crown is that it can crack and allow water to enter, which can cause serious damage to your home.

 

  1. Unsecured Masonry

 

Masonry is the material that the chimney is made of, and it can become loose over time. This can be a serious problem because it can allow the chimney to collapse, which can cause serious damage to your home.

 

  1. Blockages

 

There are many things that can cause a blockage in your chimney. Some of the most common blockages include things like leaves, birds, animals, and other debris. If you have any of these blockages, you will need to have them removed before you can use your fireplace again.

 

How Can a Masonry Company Help With Chimney Repair?

 

When it comes to chimney repair, you need to make sure that you hire a masonry company to do the work for you. This is because these companies have the experience and the knowledge that is needed to properly repair your chimney. If you try to repair the chimney yourself, you could end up making the problem worse, which could end up costing you more money in the long run.

 

If you are in need of chimney repair, then you should contact a masonry company as soon as possible. This way, you can get the work done right away, and you can avoid having to pay for any more damage to your chimney in the future.

 

Conclusion

 

Chimney repair can be daunting, but keeping your chimney in good working order is important to prevent fires and other hazards. The most common chimney repairs include fixing cracks, repairing damage from weather or animals, and cleaning the chimney. With a little bit of knowledge and some elbow grease, you can easily handle these repairs yourself.

 

If you’re looking for masonry services in Toronto, get yours from Toronto’s most trusted masonry company! Let our masonry experts take care of the job, so you can focus on what matters most. Contact us today!

 

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Why Now Is the Best Time to Perform Chimney Masonry Maintenance and Repairs

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Summer is here, and it is the time to complete the cleaning and perform the repairs you couldn’t finish during spring. 

 

When you do, don’t forget to include your fireplace and chimney. These two tend to get overlooked, perhaps because they’re rarely used when the weather is warmer. But you must perform maintenance before it gets cold again. 

 

To avoid issues during winter, it’s best to clean, inspect, and repair your chimney and fireplace during summer. Here, your trusted masonry company in Toronto shares all that you need to understand about this: 

 

Winter Damages to Your Chimney

 

You may not realize it, but your chimney takes a beating during the winter. Here are some ways it can be damaged:

 

  • Water can seep into the chimney and freeze, expanding and cracking the masonry.

 

  • The freeze/thaw cycle can loosen mortar and bricks.

 

  • Chimney caps can become iced over and can’t do their job of keeping the rain and snow out. This can ultimately result in water seeping into the chimney and damaging the interior.

 

  • The high winter winds can cause the chimney to sway and loosen mortar and bricks.

 

  • The heat from the chimney can cause the metal flashing around the top to corrode.

 

If you’re noticing any of these issues, it is time to call a chimney specialist. They can accurately assess the damage and recommend the best course of action.

 

Why You Need to Do Masonry Repairs During Warmer Seasons

 

If you are from an area with harsh cold winters, masonry work can be difficult to do during the colder months. The freezing temperatures can make it harder, if not impossible, to mix mortar, and the snow and ice can make it dangerous to work on scaffolding. For these reasons, it makes sense to do masonry repairs during the warmer months.

 

Masonry work is best when temperatures are between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This is because mortar needs to be able to set correctly, and the colder temperatures can make it difficult for the mortar to set. In addition, working in cold weather can be difficult and dangerous.

 

If you have masonry repairs that need to be done, it’s important to schedule them for the warmer months. This will ensure that all the repairs are done the right way and that you don’t have to deal with the difficulties of working in cold weather.

 

Avoid Additional Expenses By Checking Your Chimney and Fireplace During the Warmer Months

 

As the weather gets a little warmer, it’s necessary to take some time to check your chimney and fireplace. By doing this, you can prevent any additional expenses that may come up later on.

 

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

 

  • Inspect the outside of your chimney for any cracks or damage. If you see any, repair them as soon as possible.

 

  • Make sure the inside of your chimney is clean. If it’s not, hire a professional to clean it for you.

 

  • If you have a gas fireplace, have it serviced by a professional annually.

 

Conclusion

 

It’s important not to delay fireplace and chimney repairs. Taking advantage of the warm weather now will prevent any future issues from occurring and cost more money down the line. Be sure to hire a reputable masonry company in Toronto to assess the damage and make the necessary repairs.

 

Red Robin Masonry offers masonry services in Toronto, including fireplace and chimney repairs. Contact us today to get a quote for your project!

 

6 Signs Your Chimney Needs to Be Repaired

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When was the last time you considered the safety of your fireplace? If you haven’t in some time, it may be time to start. If things aren’t functioning as they should, your home, family, and property could be at risk every time you light a fire. That’s why it is imperative to know the signs of chimney damage.

 

Here are a few common problems with chimneys and what to keep an eye out for:

 

  1. Cracking and Crumbling Material

 

If you notice cracks on your chimney and hear them making noises, especially if they’re accompanied by crumbling or falling materials, you may want to call your chimney repair specialists. These are signs the bricks or mortar are deteriorating to the point of danger. The cracks indicate inadequate support, and crumbling materials can indicate the mortar or sand is failing and isn’t doing its job of holding bricks together.

 

  1. Rusty Metal Components

 

Over time, the metal components on your fireplace and chimney, such as the damper, can rust and flake. This rust can cause problems on your fireplace’s flue and the surrounding area and cause fires to spread out of control. If you see rust or flaking or notice that your fireplace’s damper no longer moves freely, having chimney sweep professionals inspect your fireplace is a good idea.

 

  1. Foul Odours

 

If you notice a foul or unpleasant odour coming from your fireplace or hear a gurgling noise, this is likely caused by condensation inside the chimney. Condensation can build up when you’re using your fireplace and come from other sources, such as a bathroom. Seasonal heating can also cause condensation, and depending on the area in which you live; moisture can build up in the chimney and cause problems.

 

  1. Mould and Discoloration

 

If mould or mildew is growing on your fireplace or chimney, this is a sign that there’s a moisture problem. Mildew can be a precursor to fungus and moulds and isn’t something you want near your family’s breathing area. If the amount of mould and mildew is great enough for you to notice, you should have your fireplace and chimney cleaned before it leads to worse problems.

 

  1. Rotten Woodwork

 

If your woodwork around the fireplace is rotting, there’s likely a moisture issue. Dry rot is the most prevalent cause of this problem, and it can spread to the entire area surrounding your fireplace if left unchecked. If unsure, call a chimney sweep to inspect the site and have the problem professionally taken care of.

 

  1. Stains on the Walls and Ceiling

 

This is a clear sign of wood rot if you have stains on your walls and ceiling around your fireplace. The woodwork around your fireplace is usually made of softwood and can be contaminated by soot and creosote, which both tend to stain. If you notice your woodwork is stained and want to remedy the issue, try to clean the walls and ceiling with warm water and soap, and you may be able to remove the stain.

 

Conclusion

 

Your home, family, and property are at risk for fire all year round, especially during the winter. This is why understanding the signs of chimney damage and taking them seriously is so important. If you notice any problems listed above, you should have a chimney sweep look at your fireplace to ensure it’s functioning safely.

 

Red Robin Masonry is Toronto’s most trusted masonry company, providing brickwork, chimney work, parging, and stonework services. We understand that investment but also the stresses that come along with maintaining it. It’s our vision to give you the comfort of knowing that any project being done on your home is in good hands. If you need chimney repair services in Ontario, we’ve got you covered! Get in touch with us today and let us know how we can help!

 

4 Significant Reasons to Get Professional Chimney Services

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Chimneys are known to be dirty and rather tricky to clean. They can be dangerous as well if they are not taken care of well. However, you can always leave them to the professionals when it comes to cleaning and routine maintenance. If you plan to have your chimney cleaned and checked out, it’s recommended to go for professional services.

 

You may wonder why hiring professionals to clean your chimney is advantageous. Here are some significant reasons why it’s best to hire a professional for chimney cleaning services:

 

1) To Ensure the Safe Removal of Obstruction

 

One of the primary reasons why you should get your chimney cleaned by professionals is to ensure the removal of any obstruction that might be constraining the free flow of air up the chimney. Over time, a chimney gets blocked because of ash, soot and other residues. Furthermore, smoke will flood the room, which is unpleasant and makes breathing difficult.

 

Thus, hiring a professional is the right way to keep the internal parts of your chimney clean and prevent it from any damage or dangerous circumstances. Additionally, they will also ensure that there are no combustible materials near the vent in order to avoid any unwanted accidents.

 

2) To Prevent Costly Fires from Ensuing

 

When a chimney is blocked, smoke and gases cannot escape through it. This results in the smoke, gases and hot air accumulating in the room. However, the smoke can easily travel to other rooms in your home, like the kitchen and bedrooms. If the smoke gets to a high level, there is a risk of fire breaking out.

 

Chimney fires can lead to millions of dollars worth of property damages and can result in the loss of life. Thus, by hiring professional chimney cleaning services, you can be assured that your house and loved ones are in safe hands.

 

3) To Deal with Hidden Issues and Problems

 

Another reason to get professional chimney services is to deal with any hidden issues or problems that may exist in your chimney. Often, homeowners might have to deal with serious issues, such as flammable substances.

 

However, in the initial stages, it is hard even to spot the presence of such problems in the chimney. Seasoned cleaning experts are skilled at detecting the issues that the untrained eye may miss. They will identify the case early on and address it before it becomes a major concern.

 

4) To Attain a Better Version of the Chimney

 

Finally, you can hire a professional to get a better version of your chimney. A professional chimney cleaning service will suit your needs if you want to enjoy a more aesthetically pleasing and efficient performance of it. They will clean and remove any dust that has formed on the side of the chimney to preserve it in pristine condition.

 

Conclusion

 

Hiring a professional chimney cleaning service will guarantee that your chimney is safe, clean, and well-maintained. Chimney owners don’t have to deal with the inconvenience of cleaning or keeping it in good shape yourself.

 

Looking for chimney repair services in Scarborough? Red Robin Masonry is Toronto’s most trusted masonry company, providing chimney work, brickwork, stonework, and much more in Ontario, CAN. Get in touch with us now!

What is Chimney Flashing (And Why Is It Important)

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Chimney tuckpointing and sweeping are often talked about as being important, but people can overlook chimney flashing. Chimney flashing is actually a very important part of taking care of your chimney and should be a high priority for all homeowners. The following blog post will cover all the nitty-gritty about chimney flashing and why it is such an important part of keeping your home safe.

What is Chimney Flashing? (And Why Is It Important?)

Chimney flashing is a type of metal that is used to protect the chimney from water damage. It is often installed around the chimney to cover the mortar joints and prevent water from penetrating inside the chimney. Metal flashing is designed to withstand fire, extreme heat, and water damage. However, it can easily be damaged or dislodged over time, which can allow water to get inside your chimney.

If water gets inside your chimney, it may cause masonry damage to the chimney itself, which can lead to a dangerous fire hazard. If masonry damage occurs, you will need to look at chimney repair or replacement, which can be an expensive proposition.

How do you Know When Your Flashing is Leaking?

1 – Damage to the Roof and Attic

If you notice that your roof or attic is leaking and you are not sure where the leak is coming from, it is likely coming from your chimney. A good way to confirm this is to check the weather stripping on the top of your chimney. Using a sharp tool, poke at the weather stripping to determine if it is loose. Water will move from one place to another based on the level of pressure. If it is loose and you have not noticed any leaks before, it is likely that the weather stripping is not working.

Leaks in the roof or the attic can add up to a lot of water each year, which will damage the structure of your home. Excessive moisture can be a breeding ground for mould and mildew, which is harmful to your health and can also add up to a lot of damage. To prevent roof leaks, make sure to hire a professional to do maintenance on your roof.

2 – Mold and Mildew

If you notice mould or mildew in your home, it is likely that water is seeping in through a leaking chimney. This moisture can cause a lot of damage to your home, including mould and mildew growth, which can be very harmful to your health. If you have a leak in your chimney, it is important to take care of it immediately to prevent structural damage or health issues.

3 – Black soot around the Chimney

If you notice black soot around your chimney, it could be due to a cracked or loose top plate. To determine if your top plate is loose, place a small bead of caulking around the top of the chimney, and then use something heavy to press down on it. If it squeezes out, your top plate is loose and needs to be tightened.

Conclusion

Keeping your chimney clean, dry, and well-maintained can prevent a lot of damage and health issues. If you know that your chimney has not been looked at in a while, it is important to schedule a chimney inspection to catch any problems before they develop. Sometimes, these problems can be fixed quickly and easily, but if they are not addressed, the damage can pile up and get to the point where you need to replace parts of your chimney.

If you need chimney repair services in Thornhill, come to Red Robin Masonry. Red Robin Masonry is Toronto’s most trusted masonry company. Our masonry services include brickwork, chimney work, parging, stonework and much more!

Chimney Woes Signs of Chimney Damage and What You Should Do

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Chimney Woes: Signs of Chimney Damage and What You Should Do

The original Mary Poppins movie has desensitized the precarious lives of chimney sweepers. As kids, we watched Dick van Dyke sing happily in the film and thought that such a job was easy. Although cleaning chimneys nowadays are no longer as hazardous as before, it is still dangerous. 

If chimneys are so dangerous, why not simply remove them? However, you will miss the advantages that it can offer. Before engaging in chimney removal services, you should continue reading the article.

This blog will enumerate the causes of chimney damage and fires. Hopefully, this knowledge will help prevent such a catastrophe without removing your beautiful chimney. 

Faulty Chimney Construction

The chimney is a significant investment for your home. It can either increase or decrease the value of your home, depending on its design and function. It would spell trouble if it were not correctly constructed, so you need a seasoned masonry company to build it.

 

As a homeowner, you need to make sure that you choose a company that has been in operation for a long time. It will ensure that the chimney is built using suitable materials.

 

If your property already has an existing chimney, the following should be your clue that you need chimney repair services:

 

  • Narrow or shallow footing
  • Loose soil beneath the footing
  • Wrong size or height for the fireplace
  • Low-quality bricks and mortar
  • Improperly installed chimney liner
  • Unfinished smoke chamber

 

Leaky Chimney


The fireplace is a beautiful addition to any home. It gives the comfort of a cozy fire during winter. Minus the log fire can help prevent the spread of smoke and toxic gases such as carbon monoxide.  

 

A chimney is supposed to channel these gases outside. A leaky chimney will cause a loss of heat and the infiltration of dangerous pollutants. If you have a chimney with cracks, check the metal liner on the interior. The liner is supposed to prevent the leakage of heat and toxic gases.  

 

If you notice a damaged metal liner, you need to contact a qualified chimney repair expert as soon as possible. Of course, the worst-case scenario is a chimney fire. It can burn down the house and ruin the investment you made for your home. You need to engage in chimney repair services as soon as possible if you notice any signs stated earlier.  

 

Addressing Chimney Damage

 

If you have a badly damaged chimney, you need to seek the services of a seasoned mason. It will help you address the issues and save the chimney from further damage. Cleaning and repairing a damaged chimney is expensive. However, it is more costly when a house burns down.  

 

When you choose an experienced company, you can ensure that your chimney will be fixed properly. The repairs usually involve two significant steps: cleaning and fixing. These steps can go hand in hand or separately, depending on the damage.

 

Conclusion


Early detection is the key to chimney damage and fire prevention. If you notice any signs mentioned above, do not hesitate to call for chimney repair services. A reputable company will inspect the chimney and recommend solutions. 

If you need to fix your chimney, you should call Red Robin Masonry. We offer quality chimney repair services to Toronto residents. Do not waste another minute! Call us now to prevent any catastrophe.

Is Your Chimney Leaking: 5 Signs & 3 Causes of Chimney Leaks

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Warm nights with cozy fires are only possible if you have your chimney in the best condition. However, this is not always the case. Even the sturdiest of chimneys may encounter issues from time to time.

If you are worried about chimney leaks and other damages, you should check out this guide. Here are the signs and causes to watch out for to avoid water leaks in your chimney.

Signs That Your Chimney Is Leaking

Many homeowners are unsure if their chimney is leaking, especially if it has yet to cause any major problems. Here are the main signs of water leaks in your chimney that indicate it is in need of a thorough inspection:

1. Bad Odors

The smell of mildew and mould is a common sign that there is water damage in your chimney. This bad smell can be very unpleasant and foul, but it is usually not a sign of a serious leak. The smell of mildew and mould often appears in places that are difficult to clean and keep dry.

2. Crumbling Bricks

Bricks are a typical chimney construction material, and it is easy to tell if they have been damaged by water. Crumbling bricks or stones can be a sign that water leaks in your chimney have weakened the structure of the chimney and the bricks. If you are dealing with crumbling bricks and stones, your chimney may need to be replaced entirely.

3. Watermarks on the House

Another telltale sign that your chimney is leaking is watermarks on the walls or the ceiling of your house. These marks may look like round spots with a darker colour, or they may be long streaks. Watermarks are caused by water leaks and are usually accompanied by a bad smell.

4. Sound or Vibration Oddities

If your chimney is leaking, it is likely that you will feel or hear the problem. Listen for any strange sounds coming from your chimney, including constant thumping or rattling. Your chimney may also vibrate or make unusual knocking sounds. If you hear any odd sounds coming from your chimney, you may have a water leak.

5. Missing Chimney Cap

If you notice that your chimney cap has disappeared, it could be a sign of a major problem. When you take a look at your chimney cap, you should have one that fits tightly on the chimney. A missing cap is a sure sign that a water leak has damaged the chimney cap.

Causes of Chimney Leaks

Sometimes it can be hard to figure out exactly why your chimney is leaking. It is easier to identify the problem when you know what caused it, especially when it comes to chimney leaks. Some causes of water leaks in your chimney include:

1. Mortar Joint Deterioration

Just like any other building material, the mortar that connects bricks together can deteriorate over time. One of the most common reasons for mortar joint deterioration is water leaks and water damage. If the water damage is severe enough, the mortar may crumble and deteriorate and may even cause the entire structure to collapse.

2. Improper Building

Badly constructed chimneys are another common reason for water leaks in your chimney. The chimney may not be the right size or the right shape, which can make it easier for water to leak in.

3. Bad Chimney Placement

Some chimneys are placed in locations where they can be damaged easily. If your chimney is near a tree, it may get damaged by falling branches, as well as in a heavy snowstorm, which can cause it to collapse.

Final Thoughts

If you think your chimney is in need of repairs, you should consider getting it checked out by a professional. If the damage is severe, you may need to replace your entire chimney, which can be a very costly but crucial repair.

For first-rate chimney rebuild in Toronto, trust only Red Robin Masonry. We offer a range of services, including brickwork, chimney work, stonework, and more! Contact us today to request a service.