If you have a chimney in your home, it's essential to ensure it remains in good condition. Chimneys are often neglected because they are out of sight and therefore many homeowners don't realise they need repairs until it’s too late. A damaged chimney can lead to serious problems, including fires, water damage, structural issues affecting the entire property, and even carbon monoxide poisoning.
As a leading roofing company in Edinburgh, we understand the importance of chimney repairs. In this blog, we'll explore five common signs that your chimney needs repairing.
Cracks
One of the most obvious signs of chimney damage is cracks in the masonry. Cracks can occur due to age, weathering, or improper installation. If you notice any cracks in your chimney, it's essential to call a roofer in Edinburgh to assess the damage. Small cracks can be repaired, but larger ones may require bigger structural repairs or even a full rebuild.
Crumbling mortar joints
Mortar joints hold the bricks or stones of the chimney together. Over time, these joints can become damaged due to weathering, heat, and age. If you notice any crumbling or missing mortar joints, it's essential to get them fixed as soon as possible. Crumbling mortar joints can eventually lead to your chimney partially or completely collapsing.
Leaks
Another sign that your chimney needs repair is water leakage. Water can seep into the chimney through cracks, damaged flashing, or faulty chimney caps. If you notice water stains on the walls or ceiling around your chimney, it's a clear indication that the chimney is leaking. A leaking chimney can cause serious water damage, not to mention rust, so it's crucial to get it fixed as soon as possible.
Shaling
Shaling occurs in older chimneys that have a tiled flue lining and is characterised by tile fragments falling off into the firebox or fireplace. This is an indication that the interior of the chimney needs to be inspected - it may be necessary for the tiled interior to be replaced with a stainless steel flue liner.
Once you've noticed shaling, it's recommended to contact a specialist, who will use a camera to examine the chimney's interior and determine the extent of the damage. It's also advisable to avoid using the chimney once shaling has been spotted, as the area surrounding the chimney will no longer be fully protected from heat.
Chimney cap damage
The chimney cap is the protective cover that sits on top of the chimney. It prevents rain, snow, and debris from entering the chimney. If the chimney cap is damaged or missing, it can lead to serious problems, including water damage and animal infestation. It's essential to get the chimney cap repaired or replaced by a skilled roofer or chimney repair specialist.
It is clear that a damaged chimney can lead to serious problems, so it’s important to act quickly in the event that damage does occur. If you notice any signs of chimney damage on your property, it's essential to call a roofing company in Edinburgh to assess the damage and recommend the necessary repairs.
At Probuild Contracts, we offer a range of roofing services, including chimney repair and replacement. If you're looking for a reliable roofer in Edinburgh, get in touch with us today. We'll assess the condition of your chimney and recommend the necessary repairs to keep your home safe and secure.
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