Our Rockland County Experts Explain How You Can Detect Chimney Deterioration

J. G. Home Improvements • Sep 11, 2023

Your chimney serves a crucial function in your home by delivering both warmth and ventilation. However, chimneys can deteriorate with time owing to a variety of circumstances, potentially resulting in safety issues and costly repairs. Below, we'll look at the top indications of chimney deterioration that every homeowner should be aware of. When you need chimney repair in Rockland County, NY, give the team at J. G. Home Improvements a call.


Efflorescence

The migration of soluble salts inside masonry materials causes efflorescence, a white, powdery substance that forms on the chimney's exterior surface. When moisture infiltrates and evaporates from the chimney construction, it leaves behind these salts, which collect as efflorescence. While it may appear to be innocuous, efflorescence can indicate water-related damage within the chimney, such as leaks or poor flashing. If neglected, these water-related issues can lead to more serious degradation, including structural damage and safety concerns, over time.


Spalling Bricks 

Spalling bricks are a phenomenon that happens when bricks on the outer surface of a chimney begin to crack, chip, or break apart as a result of extended exposure to moisture and cold temperatures. When water penetrates the brickwork and then freezes, it expands, weakening and deteriorating the bricks over time. Spalling bricks not only jeopardize the structural integrity of your chimney, but they can also cause more moisture incursion, compounding the problem. 


Damaged Mortar Joints

Mortar is the adhesive that keeps the bricks or stones in your chimney together. Exposure to the environment, temperature variations, and moisture can all cause mortar joints to degrade over time. Water can enter the chimney construction when mortar joints show evidence of cracking, crumbling, or gaps. Water intrusion can cause further degradation of the masonry, reducing the stability of the chimney and posing a safety threat. 


Chimney Repair in Rockland County

At J. G. Home Improvements/Ren Corp, our local chimney company can conduct any repairs necessary to return a chimney to service. We offer chimney leak repair, chimney masonry repair, chimney liner replacement, and installation, chimney cap repair and chimney cap installation, chimney crown repair, and other services. We can fix masonry chimneys and metal chimneys, so don’t hesitate to call us at 914-653-7717 to request chimney repair in Rockland County. We can complete a chimney inspection to let you know exactly what’s needed.

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