It is very near summer, but your chimney system may still be giving you problems. The amount of precipitation that we get in the Pacific Northwest along with the fluctuating temperatures throughout fall and winter can damage even a well-constructed chimney. When your masonry takes on damage due to time, weather, or natural disasters, it is important to repair it as soon as detected—definitely before the system is used.
Common Masonry Damage
Firebox Damage – The firebox takes on the most abuse, but is often the most overlooked part of the entire system. The constant high temperatures and corrosive gases and particles can lead to damage to the firebox over time. The firebox may also become stained which can detract from the overall aesthetic of the hearth.
Spalling Masonry – Cracks and gaps in the masonry and crumbling, deteriorating mortar is called spalling masonry. Spalling masonry can lead to a host of issues, from a simple drop in efficiency to a carbon monoxide emergency that lands you or your loved ones in the hospital.
Crown Deterioration – A properly-constructed crown only lasts so long against weather and sunshine. When the crown becomes damaged, the chimney system takes on the water which adds to spalling and other water damage throughout the chimney system.
When to Call the Professionals
If you have noticed cracked, gapped, and crumbling mortar, it’s time to call the professionals. If you’ve found pieces of mortar or bricks on the roof or on the lawn, it’s time to call the professionals. If a professional has notified you of spalling masonry and made repair recommendations, schedule a repair! It is against our recommendations to use a chimney system with damaged masonry. It is unsafe and puts your family and your home at risk. When we complete inspections at Pristine Sweeps, you can count on a detailed repair plan from a qualified professional. Your masonry repairs will be completed by an experienced mason, and you can count on timely work and professional courtesies.
Tuckpointing and Repointing by Pristine Sweeps
The process of restoring the “pointing” or the exterior parts of mortar joints is called tuckpointing or repointing. It can be a tedious process that involves removal of the affected brick and mortar and replacing it with new mortar of equal strength, consistency, strength, and color. An amateur lacks the expertise to properly match the mortar, weakening the masonry and changing the look of the chimney exterior.
Protect the Chimney with Pristine Sweeps
We restore chimneys to full safety and function by repairing the masonry correctly and staying within federal and state fire safety standards. We also prevent future damage by waterproofing the masonry we repair. Waterproofing services protect your masonry from ordinary water penetration, preventing future damage and costs. The product we use to protect your masonry is vapor-permeable, allowing the chimney to breathe and vent properly while keeping water molecules out completely.
Seattle’s Choice for Chimney Care
If you are a home or business owner and reside in the Seattle area, choose Pristine Sweeps for your chimney care and repair. We can restore even the worst damage keeping you from enjoying your fireplace this fall. Call Pristine Sweeps now at 206-574-8414.