Checking for Chimney Leaks
“Why are we talking about chimney leaks when it has been so dry?” “No need to worry about water leaks from the chimney, all looks good in the house so far.” These are two statements that have been going through everyone’s minds. No rain, no problems, so therefore there must be no issues! Is it […]
How Do Leaks Start in a Chimney?
When you take a look at this picture, you can clearly see that mortar fell out from in between the bricks and additional cracks and loose mortar are next to the empty spot. This is an open invitation for water to continue to break down the mortar and water to make its way into the […]
April Showers Bring May… Leaks?
A missing chimney cap can make or break the chimney structure and safety of your home. It’s true that April showers bring May flowers. It also can bring severe storms that, in the Chicagoland area, will be sure to damage your chimney. You need all the necessary protection for the Spring months. If you go […]
Reclaim the Warmth of Your Fireplace
Have you ever experienced a cozy evening only to be disrupted by an unexpected cold draft in fireplace? It seems counterintuitive, doesn’t it? Fireplaces are meant to provide warmth and pleasure, not chilly gusts of air! Unfortunately, many homeowners find themselves facing this very issue. So, why does a cold draft occur in your fireplace, […]
Chimney Freeze-Thaw Cycle in a Mild Chicago Winter
Chimney freeze thaw cycle is a regular occurrence in Illinois, even with the mild winter we’ve been experiencing. Now with the week ahead, temperatures hovering around the 30 degree mark during the day, chance of snow multiple times and in the 20’s at night, is a perfect recipe for the chimney to have to endure […]
Chimney Leaks Caused by Snow
Chimney leaks can be caused by snow, not only by the heavy downpours of rain! Chimney leaks occur year round due to exposure to various weather conditions. Whether it be rain, snow, wind or sunshine, chimneys begin to decay as weather wears on them. The exterior of the chimney is very porous and lets water […]
Keeping a Dry Chimney for Santa
Kids are telling their parents, “We need a dry chimney for Santa.” Many parents disregard the comment as there is nothing wrong with the fireplace or the chimney. Right? Every year with a pinch of Santa’s nose, he travels through thousands and thousands of chimneys and into the homes to leave ‘wished for’ presents for […]
A Seeping Chimney Can Cause Long-Term Damage
A seeping chimney is a slow, gradual way of water entering into the home and causing damage slowly, steadily and over time. The seeping chimney damage can range from a minor repair to something far more extensive. However, when it comes to water, it certainly doesn’t play nice with the materials your home is made […]
6 Ways Water Leaks Through the Chimney
Water leaks through the chimney can cause big problems in the home. After the past couple of weeks of rainstorms, I went out to the back of the yard to take a look at some of the damage it caused to the trees. It certainly was a swamp in the back as I even saw […]
How Your Chimney Shows Signs of Being ‘Under the Weather’
Chicago weather… You never know what to expect. One minute we get reminded what sunshine looks like, and the next, 4-foot snow drifts up against the garage door. We spoke with a couple of our certified technicians as to what to look out for with all of the recent snow, sleet, freezing temperatures and the […]
