A well kept chimney adds a certain “old world” charm to your home while performing a vital function at the same time. It provides ventilation to your property, guiding gases and smoke from a fireplace, furnace or boiler to the outside world. Being exposed to the elements on a day to day basis can take its toll, and as the years pass it is not uncommon for a chimney’s condition to deteriorate to a point where chimney repair Toronto is required.
Cummins Restorations Inc. have been providing professional chimney repair Toronto and rebuild services to clients across the GTA since 1992. We possess a vast amount of experience and are able to quickly assess a chimney’s state before recommending the best course of action. Whether that’s a complete rebuild or a simple tuckpointing job, you can always expect an honest assessment from us.
When Might You Need a Chimney Repair Service in Toronto?
While you are not always able to determine whether chimney repair Toronto is required just by looking, there are a number of signs to look out for. If you come across any of them, you would be well advised to pick up the phone and contact a company with expertise in this field, such as Cummins Restorations Inc.
- Damaged Mortar Joints – Mortar is what holds your chimney together and keeps moisture from getting inside. If these mortar joints become damaged, the condition of your chimney can quickly deteriorate, particularly given the harsh conditions experienced during the winter months in the Greater Toronto Area. Once damaged, water can get inside these joint, freeze and then expand to open up cracks further and put the chimney at risk of collapsing.
- Visible Damage to the Chimney Crown – After the chimney cap, the chimney crown is the next line of defense, protecting the rest of the chimney from weather-related damage. It sits on the uppermost part of the chimney (hence why it’s known as the crown) and is usually made from either concrete or mortar. It prevents moisture from getting to mortar joints and the porous edges of bricks. If there are significant cracks in the crown or the edges have receded, you will probably need the assistance of a chimney repair service.
- The Presence of Rust – A properly functioning chimney should not contain moisture; if it does, there is something wrong. One of the most obvious signs that moisture is present inside the chimney structure is rust on the firebox or damper.
- Cracked Flue Tiles – Are there little pieces of tile accumulating at the bottom of the chimney? If so, they are probably from the flue lining, which when damaged can become a serious hazard.