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Lindemann has been Chicagoland’s leader in fireplace and masonry repair for more than 50 years. Our expert technicians specialize in repairing a wide range of fireplace problems, from fire and water damage to improper construction and poor maintenance.
Schedule AppointmentCommon Issues
Over time, fireplaces can develop a range of issues that require professional repair services. If you’re experiencing problems with your fireplace, it’s important to address them promptly to prevent safety hazards and ensure that your fireplace is functioning properly. Here are some of the most common fireplace problems that homeowners may encounter.
Damaged or cracked flues
A damaged or cracked flue can cause smoke to enter your home, which can be a serious health hazard. It can also prevent proper ventilation, leading to a buildup of dangerous gasses like carbon monoxide. Flue damage can be caused by moisture, rust, or general wear and tear over time.
Malfunctioning dampers
The damper is an essential part of your fireplace, as it regulates the flow of air into the firebox. A malfunctioning damper can cause your fireplace to smoke or prevent proper ventilation. Dampers can become stuck or warped over time, preventing them from functioning properly.
Damaged firebox or firebrick
The firebox and firebrick are essential components of your fireplace, as they contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to other areas of your home. Damage to the firebox or firebrick can cause your fireplace to become unsafe or inefficient. Damage can be caused by high heat or general wear and tear over time.
Issues with the chimney cap or crown
The chimney cap and crown are designed to prevent water and debris from entering your chimney. Damage to these components can cause water to enter your chimney, leading to deterioration and other issues. Damage can be caused by exposure to harsh weather conditions or general wear and tear over time.
Cracked or deteriorating chimneys
A cracked or deteriorating chimney can allow smoke or gasses to enter your home, and can also be a safety hazard. Cracks can be caused by water damage or general wear and tear, while deterioration can be caused by exposure to harsh weather conditions.
Our Services
No matter the size or scope, every repair project involves craftsmanship, attention to detail, and clear communication throughout the process. We offer a range of specific fireplace and chimney repair services including firebox repair, crown repair, tuckpointing, and complete chimney rebuilds.
Fireboxes weaken with age and can sustain damage if a chimney fire occurs. Broken bricks, cracked mortar, and other small imperfections can lead to larger, more serious issues. Although firebox materials such as brick and mortar are designed to withstand high temperatures, they do deteriorate over time. Our professional masons perform both full and partial rebuilds, restoring damaged fireboxes to proper fit, finish, and function.
Tuckpointing is needed when the mortar between bricks is cracked or missing, and helps prevent water from entering into your home or the chimney system. If mortared joints are not repaired in a timely manner, all forms of precipitation can further penetrate these areas. If left unrepaired, this deterioration leads to larger, more costly restoration.
Cracked or crumbling crowns caused by age and weather exposure are easy to spot during routine inspection. If cracks are not sealed, water penetrates the crown causing moisture damage to the crown itself and the bricks below. Leaving a damaged crown unrepaired ensures moisture damage (e.g., brick “spalling”) and crown deterioration. Our repair solutions ensure your chimney crown stays weatherproofed and sealed to minimize future issues.
Spalling occurs when moisture seeps into a brick and enters the destructive cycle of freezing and thawing. Spalling bricks on the inside or outside of your chimney will crumble, flake, and even fall out completely. Your climate, home architecture, and home exterior can contribute to the impact moisture has on brickwork. If unrepaired, pieces of the brick facing can fall and cause more damage.
In some cases, chimney damage is so extensive that it requires a complete rebuild. The scope of each rebuild depends on the damage discovered, and may affect the entire chimney or just a portion of it. Our team of professionals works with homeowners throughout this process. Once a rebuild is complete, many customers choose waterproofing to further protect their chimney and preserve its integrity.
Our Process
When you’re experiencing problems with your fireplace, it’s important to address them promptly to prevent safety hazards and ensure that your fireplace is functioning properly. Lindemann’s professional fireplace repair service can help you identify and resolve any issues with your fireplace. Here are the general steps involved in the fireplace repair process:
Safety
At Lindemann, safety is our top priority. We understand the potential dangers of carbon monoxide and other hazards associated with fireplaces, which is why we take every precaution to ensure that your fireplace is functioning safely and efficiently. By keeping these safety considerations in mind and following proper fireplace maintenance practices, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of your fireplace while ensuring the safety of your home and family. Here is what we recommend.
Install carbon monoxide detectors
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be produced by a malfunctioning fireplace. Installing carbon monoxide detectors in your home can help you detect any dangerous levels of gas and take action to address the issue.
Properly dispose of ashes
Ashes from your fireplace should be disposed of in a metal container with a lid, and should be kept a safe distance away from your home to prevent them from catching fire.
Have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly
Regular chimney inspections and cleanings can help prevent issues like flue damage, creosote buildup, and other common fireplace problems that can pose safety risks.
Keep flammable materials away from the fireplace
Flammable materials like paper, clothing, and furniture should be kept a safe distance away from the fireplace to prevent them from catching fire.
Never leave a fire unattended
It’s important to never leave a fire unattended, as this can increase the risk of a fire starting or spreading.
Use a fireplace screen
A fireplace screen can help prevent sparks and embers from escaping the firebox and potentially causing a fire.
50+ Years of Experience
Every customer deserves to work with trustworthy, knowledgeable technicians on their important projects.
In Chicago’s North Shore and communities across northern Illinois, Lindemann works hard to earn new business and build trust and satisfaction with existing customers. We are a family-owned operation that takes pride in craftsmanship, attention to detail, and customer service.