It seems crazy to be talking about how chimney bricks expand and contract, but as we have experienced, we’ve gone from 90 degrees to 70 degrees in a 24 hour timeframe. Those type of swings in temperatures create stress on the brick or stone material causing it to slowly break away from the mortar.
Chimney Bricks Expand and Contract
The Chicagoland area is great for temperature swings regardless of season. As a result, the chimney needs to be inspected annually to ensure cracks don’t form from the expansion and contraction. These small or large cracks are perfect points for the weather elements to enter. Rain is one weather element that will enter any crack it can find. Once in between the mortar and the bricks or stone, the water begins making its way into the house.
If you begin to hear dripping sounds in or near the fireplace, you have waited too long and repairs are eminent. How can you avoid damage when chimney bricks expand and contract? An annual chimney inspection.
Annual Chimney Inspection
If you have a gas, wood burning fireplace or never use the fireplace, summer is the perfect time to get it swept and inspected without a wait. What are the levels of a chimney inspection and what do they mean?
Level 1: This is a basic chimney inspection and is a perfect choice for annual maintenance that has been serviced each year whether the fireplace was used or not. A certified technician from Superior Chimney will inspect the chimney’s interior and exterior including the flue to ensure the structure is sound and check for any obstructions or creosote, which is a flammable deposit left from using fireplaces.
Level 2: A level 2 inspection includes everything in Level 1 along with a more in-depth analysis. This type of inspection is required when you are selling a home, natural disaster or when making a change to the system such as installing a new flue liner or appliance.
Level 3: The most comprehensive inspection is a Level 3. It generally occurs if something is seriously wrong and it was identified in the Level 1 or Level 2 chimney inspection. It may involve invasive steps such as removal of part of the chimney. However, keep in mind this level is only for serious issues.
Weather is Unpredictable
Ultimately, the unpredictable weather and dramatic temperature swings in the Chicagoland area can take a serious toll on your chimney. The constant cycle of expansion and contraction creates stress that leads to cracks, leaving your home vulnerable to water damage and other issues.
By scheduling an annual chimney inspection, you can proactively address and avoid any serious problems. Be sure to contact us today at 877-244-6349.
