For some reason most people don't stop and think about the topic of chimney repair until it is way too late. In the vast majority of cases, by simply taking a few simple precautions you will be able to keep any chimney repair jobs to the absolute minimum. Here are a few methods that you can use to help keep the little problems from becoming a big on.
- Inspect. The first step to telling whether or not you need any major (or even minor) chimney repairs is to periodically inspect it. On the average you should do this whenever the season changes from hot to cold or cold to hot. That being said, you really only need to check the chimney once every year or two. When you do look, keep an eye out for any loose flashing, cracks in the mortar, or other problems in the masonry.
- Get a second opinion. In the event that you find something that you think is a problem, get another opinion right away. This second opinion should not be your friend from down the street, but rather a professional chimney inspector. This inspector will not only be able to tell you if your chimney has a problem, but if it extends to anything else that may need to be fixed as well.
- Get the right tools. If you are willing to do the minor work yourself, make sure that you have the right tools. This will include things like a chimney brush to ensure that the chimney is free of any creosote, dirt, and debris. Once you have done that, you should be able to begin repairing any minor cracks or flashing problems. For the most part, smaller cracks that are less than half an inch in size only really need to have some waterproof caulking, or better yet a concrete bonding material. For larger cracks you need more detailed work, and more experienced hands to do the work for you.
- Don't be afraid to get a professional. Perhaps the single most difficult aspect of any project is figuring out when you are over your head. With chimney repairs, a good rule of thumb is that if the crack is larger than half an inch, or you find some damage to, or near, the flashing then you should have a professional come and make the repairs. This is largely a safety issue, since an improperly repaired chimney can easily become an even larger problem than it was without being repaired.
Author Bio
Lee Wyatt
Contributor of numerous Tips.Net articles, Lee Wyatt is quickly becoming a regular "Jack of all trades." He is currently an independent contractor specializing in writing and editing. Contact him today for all of your writing and editing needs! Click here to contact. Learn more about Lee...
Removing Garbage Disposal Odors
Have you noticed that no matter how hard you seem to try, that there are some times when you just can't seem to prevent ...
Discover More
Getting a Second Mortgage
For many homeowners, getting a second mortgage is a popular choice when it comes to removing or reducing debt. However, ...
Discover More
Understanding Wallboard Finishing Levels
If you are thinking of having any type of wall work done in your home, then it is a good idea to understand the basics. ...
Discover More
More Home Improvement Tips
Designing an Outdoor Living Space
Having an outdoor living space is becoming more and more a necessity for today's homeowners. It seems like no home is ...
Discover More
Preventing Dry Rot
A rather common problem that faces many homes is that of dry rot. This insidious natural process can easily reduce the ...
Discover More
Installing a Lamppost in Your Yard
Installing a lamppost in your yard can be a great idea for all kinds of reasons. While you can always hire someone to do ...
Discover More
Comments