Fireplace season is in full swing! Which means your chimney will be working hard on a daily basis to keep your home warm, cozy, and smoke free. However, frequent use contributes to wear and tear, so it’s important to keep an eye out for repairs that may need to be completed before the Season comes to a close. Don’t miss the signals, read our top signs your chimney needs repair.

Foul Or Smoky Odor

Creosote is a common byproduct of wood combustion, so the more frequently you use the fireplace, the quicker creosote will cling to the flue liner. As a result, if you’re smelling a foul or smokey odor indoors, it’s likely an excessive buildup of creosote. Unfortunately, this material does more than create bad smells. It contributes to preventing harmful gases from exiting the chimney, and can even lead to a house fire. Luckily, having your chimney swept before and after the season can prevent build-up from happening.

Damage To Masonry

Not all chimney issues are interior! Some can be found with a visual inspection, like damage to the masonry or degrading mortar joints. This can be caused by unexpected, harsh weather, or simply by age. If you begin seeing mortar chunks lying around the chimney, or bricks starting to slide out of place, it’s time to find an expert to assist.

Discoloration Or Rust

Water is a chimney’s worst enemy. If you begin noticing discoloration on the ceiling or wall around your chimney, or rust in the fireplace damper, it’s a surefire sign that water is coming from somewhere. Leaking chimneys require immediate repair, so do not wait on this one.  Water soaking into the walls and other areas can cause structural damage as well as mold growth – neither of which are safe.

Have you spotted any of these signs that your chimney needs repair? Tell us in the comments! For more than two decades the masons at Cummins Restoration have been providing the highest quality craftsmanship and service to our clients. If you need masonry assistance for your chimney, don’t hesitate to contact us today at (416) 992-7965 or cumminsrestoration@rogers.com.