What you need to know about chimney repair, cleaning, and inspections

Being a homeowner can be a tough job. There is a lot to know and do and learn to keep all the different aspects of your property running efficiently. And your home’s chimney is no exception.

While you don’t need to be an expert chimney sweep to maintain a healthy system, you should educate yourself on some of the basics when it comes to the anatomy of your Chicago home’s fireplace.

Here are three aspects of chimney maintenance you need to know about:

CHIMNEY REPAIR

Every brick chimney will need a repair at some point. Here are some of the most common chimney repair jobs:

• Chimney cap installation
• Flashing repair or replacement
• Damper replacement
• Waterproofing around chimney crown
• Tuckpointing of masonry
• Chimney lining replacement

CHIMNEY CLEANING

To keep your fireplace running at optimal performance, it is essential to have it cleaned regularly. During a cleaning, your professional chimney sweep often completes the following tasks:

• Removal of flammable creosote
• Removal of any animal nests or other obstructions
• Vacuum sweeping to remove dust and debris
• General inspection of system

CHIMNEY INSPECTION

Noticing some unusual problems with your fireplace? Chimney inspections can help uncover minor problems before they turn into costly repairs. Some damages a chimney inspection can uncover are:

• Excessive creosote buildup
• Cracked chimney crowns
• Cracked or spalling brickwork
• Damaged refractory panels
• Animal infestations
• Chimney linings fractures
• Faulty chimney flashing

Not sure where to get started when it comes to taking care of your brick chimney? Start by partnering with a professional team with experience in the area. For those in Chicago that expert team is Lindemann Chimney & Fireplace | Heating & Cooling. We provide thorough chimney cleanings and inspections along with affordable chimney repairs. Each of our team members is licensed and certified to ensure you receive the best care possible.