As the weather begins to cool, Superior Chimney has received calls asking if tuckpointing the chimney should be done now, or if it can wait until Spring. That’s a great question. If this a homeowner is asking, then there are other homeowners that are unsure as well. So, let’s address tuckpointing the chimney and the importance of the mortar between the bricks or stone.
What is Tuckpointing the Chimney?
Tuckpointing the chimney is a skilled process of removing mortar that has deteriorated or fallen out from between the bricks and replace it with new mortar in order to restore the strength and endurance of the structure while preventing further damage to the chimney.
Seems like an easy DIY project? Not so fast. The job is more than just filling in cracks or missing spaces. Because these workers are highly skilled, they can easily spot underlying issues that are the cause or contributing cause to the problem. In addition, simply mixing the mortar is like being a master chef. The consistency needs to be perfect. If not, you’ve just added to your problem.
Why is Waiting Until Spring a Costly Choice?
Furthering the damage. Tuckpointing the chimney saves the structure from increased damage. What are those damages? Let’s take a further look.
- Water leaks: This is where DIY isn’t so DIY. Skilled masonry professionals are looking not just for the obvious cracks where visible space is apparent, they are also searching for hairline cracks in certain areas and bond breaks. You may look at it and say, “eh, it should be fine.” When in reality, any imperfections are a weak area for water to get inside of the structure, compromise the integrity of the structure and begin finding its way down and into your home. You won’t notice that single drip. But you will sure notice when that single drip turns into a real sound in your home. That means it has had plenty of time to mature.
- Chimney collapse! Seems a bit dramatic. When something such as a chimney is high up on the home, how often do you make it a point to view its condition. Exactly. Occasionally to never. And that’s okay, that is what Superior Chimney is here for. Do the things that are not so top of mind and obvious.
When mortar begins to weaken, cracks will form and pieces of the mortar will begin to fall out. Every deterioration will act a bit differently. It may be where the mortar separates from the bricks and a good storm later, the chimney leans to the side, some of the bricks may fall out or it can crumble all together. But because we know you’re not that type of homeowner, (or you wouldn’t be reading the article) it shouldn’t get that far.
- Mold and Odors: We all know that black stuff that appears in our bathroom and shower. That’s mold. It occurs when moisture is constant and it gets trapped. Same thing with old food in containers in the refrigerator. It’s no different for the chimney.
Mold will grow in the chimney because of lots of moisture from water leaks, high humidity often found in the Chicagoland area, and condensation buildup. Now mix that with dust and debris from the outdoors, and you have a wonderful mix of mold and nose aversion smells.
Next Steps to a Healthy Home and Dry Seasons What to do to Avoid the damages done to the chimney? Be sure to contact Superior Chimney today in order to get your exterior chimney inspected. At the same time, we can sweep and inspect the interior chimney as well as the chimney flue to ensure it maintains a healthy fire-worthy condition. Call 877-244-6349 to make an appointment with a certified, highly skilled technician.
