Chimneys are susceptible to damage and proper maintenance is vital. To learn more, read this guide to chimney repair by Masonry Chicago.

Quality Chimney Repairs in Chicago for Safe, Cozy and Warm Homes

Of all the masonry work on a building, chimneys are among the most exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage. No wonder so many people find themselves searching for “chimney repair near me” each year. If you are in need of chimney repairs, looking for chimney repair contractors, or wondering about chimney repair cost, you might want to read this guide prepared by Masonry Chicago’s chimney experts.

A well-made chimney is built to last – but not forever. In places like Chicago, the elements and cold winters take their toll on masonry chimneys over time. Mortar joints and chimney tops that are exposed to the weather are particularly vulnerable.

The risks of chimney damage

If not addressed in time, damage to chimneys can worsen and lead to the need for more major repairs or even threaten the structural integrity of the chimney. For example, water penetrating cracks in a chimney can cause bricks to crumble following freeze-thaw cycles that expand and contract the masonry.

Good chimney maintenance is also important to protect the occupants of your house. Each year, thousands of chimney fires occur across the US. This is often caused by the build-up of flammable chemicals such as creosote on the chimney walls which can then ignite at high temperatures. In addition, compromised chimneys can also allow harmful gases to seep into the house.

Over the years, the experienced chimney builders and repairers at Masonry Chicago have handled all kinds of masonry work related to chimneys. Here are some of the most commonly requested local chimney repair services:

Flue repair

Flue repairs (also known as chimney flue repairs or fireplace flue repair) are worth a particular mention as they are an important part of chimney maintenance. The flue of a chimney plays a crucial role as the vent that transports harmful smoke safely up through your house and out of the chimney top.

Compromised chimney flues can allow harmful substances created in the combustion process to seep into your house or increase the risk of fire.

Older flues are often made of clay tiles laid inside the chimney. Over time, moisture, heat, and general corrosion can cause the mortar to deteriorate. It is also possible that the tiles themselves can crack.

There are different ways of repairing a chimney flue depending on the extent and location of the damage. Given the difficulty of accessing the inside of the flue apart from at the very top and bottom of the chimney, these often involve specialist methods and the retrofitting of flues made from modern materials.