Wilmington Chimney Repairs If your chimney is damaged in any way, we can fix it. Whether an unforeseen event like a storm causes damage, or natural wear and tear has left your chimney is less-than-ideal shape, our technicians can ensure your chimney will be back and better than ever.
Chimney Flashing These pieces of metal are installed at the area where the chimney meets the roof. They are necessary to prevent water from leaking in through your chimney. Although this is not the only the spot where leaks can occur, it is one of the most vulnerable. If your chimney flashing becomes loose, torn, or pierced, water will be able to get through and can lead to mold or rot within your chimney system. To install chimney flashing, custom-fitted pieces of metal (either aluminum, stainless steel, or copper) are placed under the shingles of your roof and then up along the sides of your chimney. Then, caulking is used to create an airtight seal. With proper installation, this protection should prevent water from getting through into your chimney. Chimney Crown The chimney crown is the part around the top of the chimney that acts as a concrete roof for the masonry walls of the chimney. A concrete roof prevents water from seeping into the brick and mortar of the actual chimney, and is a valuable preventative measure. If your chimney crown is beginning to wear down, there are a couple of options, depending on the severity of the damage, to fix it. If the crown has only experienced some minor damage or cracks, sealant can be applied to cover up any minor issues. For larger cracks, patching material is inserted and then sealant is applied on top of it. These solutions can add years of life to your chimney crown. If damage is more extensive, it may be time to rebuild your chimney crown. Concrete is commonly used, since it provides the best protection against the elements, although chimney crowns can be made of metal or stone as well. Crowns should be slanted to channel water away from the chimney, keeping it as dry as possible. Chimney Masonry Work If you notice part of our chimney beginning to flake off, or see even small pieces that have fallen off, you should get an inspection as soon as possible. Occasionally, the life of your chimney can be extended if these issues are found early and properly dealt with, but sometimes it is best to start over. Chimneys are exposed to various temperatures and different types of weather year after year, while its main job is to help vent dangerous, combustible materials out of your home. Even the best chimneys will feel the effects as years pass. If the mortar holding the brick or masonry begins to deteriorate, repointing is probably the best option. This job involves taking out the old mortar and replacing it with new material. However, if the actual brick or masonry is beginning to fall off, it is time to consider replacing your chimney.
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