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.

 

2. 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.

 

3. 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.

 

4. 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.

 

5. 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.

 

6. 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!

 

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!

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.

Winter chimney repair is tricky. The mortar compounds that hold bricks together don’t set up in cold weather as well as in warm weather. If your chimney has significant brick damage and needs partial or complete rebuilding, you’ll need a lot of mortar.

Another challenge with repairing chimneys during the cold months is that frozen moisture within the masonry makes it challenging to diagnose the extent of water damage. It’s easier for technicians to assess damage after the normal freeze-thaw winter cycle is over. However, there are solutions you can make before the season ends.

So, how can you overcome such challenges and pursue chimney repairs during colder seasons? Here are four major ways to effectively repair your chimney in winter:

Use Temporary Fixes

The first strategy is to provide a temporary fix to keep the rain and cold out and then complete the repairs in spring. During the cold months, apply chimney caps to keep water out. Also, use a chimney shoe to prevent wind from pushing water into the flue.

You can fill gaps between the chimney and roof using metal flashing to keep the cold out. If you live in a tornado or hurricane-prone area, you may wish to consider a temporary plywood roof over the chimney if there is any chance of high winds during the cold months.

Another option is to use a plastic canopy that fits over the top of your chimney during the cold months. It’s sturdy enough to keep the rain out. You can also pull it down to keep the moisture out once spring arrives, and then you can remove it for the summer.

Hire Chimney Repair Companies With Insulated Trucks

Much of the issue with chimney repair is the environmental conditions and the difficulty they provide. However, there’s still a workaround if you need emergency major repairs during Winter.

You can hire a chimney repair company with insulated trucks with heaters to keep the temperature inside the truck and the technician’s work area warm. When working in such conditions, the work area is safer, and the work becomes easier to do.

Inject Thawing Compound Into Mortar

The first way to get around mortar compound issues is to use a thawing compound instead. The product is specifically designed to thaw frozen mortar and brick. It’s pumped into the wall area where the repair is being done, and then it’s set with a mortar gun.

This is the preferred way to repair chimneys during the frigid winter months because it has the least mortar. The thawing compound performs well in a wide range of temperatures. This compound also has a watertight sealant on the inside of the brick. This will prevent water infiltration into the brick for a long time.

Cold weather mortars are made to be used in below-freezing temperatures. The mortar is made for use up to minus 20 degrees, so it’s the perfect product for a winter chimney repair job.

Make Sure You’re Using the Right Tools

Chimneys have many different parts, each of which serves a specific purpose. To safely and effectively execute a chimney repair, it’s vital to use the right tools. A wide chisel is used to mortar up a crack, while a close chisel is used to re-point a broken joint. The proper hammer taps the two parts together.

There’s no reason for unnecessary risks when repairing a chimney during the winter. If you want your chimney in winter-ready condition, you should use the right tools and know-how to use them and how best to maintain them.

Conclusion

The key to successfully repairing your chimney in winter is not to let the conditions around you get in the way of doing good work. Even though snow and ice are part of the job, you can still make it through the winter season without taking unnecessary risks.

Don’t be discouraged by frigid weather. You can protect yourself and your chimney with proper tools and a little bit of experience.

For chimney repair services in Toronto, Red Robin Masonry is the most reputable masonry company in Toronto. If you want to build a brick wall, a chimney or a fireplace, parge, stonework, and more, we can help you. Call us today!

Bricks and mortar on the exterior of a well-built stone chimney will progressively succumb to weather-related damage as it ages. Not only do older masonry chimneys deteriorate with age, but even newer masonry chimneys can be damaged if they are not adequately cared for and maintained. Unfortunately, spalling is linked to all symptoms and signs of chimney deterioration.

What Exactly Is Spalling?

Spalling is a process that occurs when the surface layer of a material erodes or is peeled away from the underlying material. Spalling is typically seen in brick and masonry buildings where a significant amount of mortar has been chemically linked to the brick and is then detached from the brick.

What Are the Significant Causes of Spalling During Winter?

Masonry comes into direct contact with the elements of nature, and even severe winter weather can cause damage to masonry surfaces and mortar.

These severe weather conditions affect moisture and temperature levels. For example, temperature fluctuations can cause freeze and thaw cycles on various construction materials. Another major cause of spalling is frost heaving, also known as frost spalling or frost shattering.

Frost spalling is the process where frost expands ice in the masonry. The expansion and contraction caused by tiny ice crystals separate the masonry from the mortar. These ice crystals cause the masonry to move within the cannon and expose the masonry and its thermal insulation.

What Are the Other Effects of Frost Spalling?

Frost shattering can cause bricks to crack and break apart or cause mortar to crack and separate. Frost shattering can be very dangerous as it can cause falling bricks and pieces of mortar and spalling, which can cause serious harm to people and property.

Not only does frost spalling cause masonry surfaces to erode and spall, but the water vapour within the ice crystals can also pass the masonry surface and the thermal insulation, which can cause the insulation to deteriorate and the masonry to freeze and crack.

As the masonry cracks, the thermal insulation can be broken apart by water vapour and moisture, compromising the insulation. That means that the home will lose heat, which can cause a higher heating bill.

How Can Spalling Be Repaired?

Spalling can be repaired using the appropriate masonry patching material. The damaged area of the chimney is smoothed, and the mortar is reset to match the original surface. To remedy this, you can search for chimney repairs near you.

Spalling can also be repaired using a chimney crown. A chimney crown is essentially a metal flashing installed at the top of the chimney to protect it from the elements.

Is It Possible to Work on Masonry in the Winter?

Generally, it is not recommended to work on a masonry structure during the winter months. This is because the temperature and moisture variations can cause additional damage to the chimney.

However, if a new structure is repaired, there is no damage to contend with due to the spalling process. In this case, it may be possible to make the repairs during the winter, as long as it is not too cold or too windy.

Conclusion

The structure may be falling apart before your very eyes, and you may not even be aware of it. If the damage is not repaired, there is a potential for the chimney to collapse, which could cause significant damage and injury to people in your home and the surrounding area.

The longer you wait to repair spalling and restoration on your masonry chimney, the higher the cost will be. While some spalling can be repaired quickly and with a low price, the longer you wait, the more significant the damage will become.

Red Robin Masonry is Toronto’s most reputable masonry company. Our masonry services include brickwork, chimney work, parging, stonework, and more. If you are looking for reliable chimney repair services in Toronto, contact our team today!