Your masonry – the brick or other material that extends the chimney through the roof – might have been badly damaged during the winter. Most masonry structures eventually deteriorate due to prolonged exposure to water. However, the freeze-thaw cycling we are so familiar with during the winter in the northeast and the northwest U.S. accelerates this process because even when the weather is cold and damp, the water inside the masonry can freeze, creating cracks and weak spots. Many mason companies like Masonry Cincinnati specialize in repairing and maintaining your masonry, whether you choose a clay or cast stone for your exterior masonry.
There are many things you can do to help masonry and mason’s skill and safety while protecting and maintaining its integrity. These mason tips will help to keep masonry structures safe and strong through the harsh winter months. It is important to know when to call a professional chimney repair service and how you can get a good estimate for chimney repairs. If you have a chimney that has cracks, holes, and other issues, it may be time to have a professional inspector to inspect the problem.
Masonry chimneys can be built in any style that fits your lifestyle and budget. They can also be built from different materials depending on what is available locally.
For chimney repairs and maintenance, there are many factors that need to be considered. The temperature, humidity, and precipitation should be considered before a new chimney is constructed. When there are issues with the existing chimney, it can cause serious damage to the inside of your home. In addition to having your chimney inspected by an experienced mason, you should also consider the type of material you are using on your exterior wall.
Cast stone or clay are used for homes and businesses that have a lot of snow and ice buildup. You can install these materials over masonry on top of your existing chimney to create a stormwater drain. This type of chimney drain keeps rainwater from entering into the structure through cracks or under the roofline. Masonry with clay tiles and stone blocks works better in areas of high precipitation. In areas with moderate precipitation, they can still work fine.
If you have to choose between masonry and exterior-wall materials, use the type that provides the best drainage. Cast stone is very porous and drains easily. In cases where you need an outside chimney drain, clay, and stones are still great options because they don’t compact and form cracks or compaction.
When a new chimney is built, it is important to hire a professional chimney repair company. The chimneys are a critical component of your house and should be installed properly by a licensed contractor who has the right tools and experience for the job. With a little bit of common sense, masonry repairs can prevent structural damage and possible fires in your home, allowing you and your family peace of mind.
A masonry contractor will take a good look at the existing construction and structure of your home, as well as the existing roofing system. By doing this, they can determine what types of material would work best and make sure it matches the design of your home. They will then create the proper ventilation system to vent excess smoke and moisture out of the house.
Next, they will install a chimney vent in the right position to help regulate the amount of smoke and moisture that enters your home. The vent should be placed right above the location of your fireplace so that the hot air doesn’t enter your home and cause damage. Instead of allowing the smoke and moisture to build up and sit in your attic, the ventilation system will prevent it from escaping the home by pushing the smoke and moisture out. Once the smoke and moisture are gone, your air conditioner or furnace will continue to work properly.
Once a chimney repair company completes the installation and venting, they will also make sure your roof is repaired. They will be able to give you advice on where to place a vent to maximize its effectiveness. The vent should also have a screen to ensure that there are no moisture and fire potential inside the home. After the vent is installed, they will make sure that you have an opening large enough for a draft-free exit.
Although new chimneys can be an expensive project, there is a reason why a mason or contractor will cost you more than just building one from scratch. It’s because they have the experience, expertise, and training to complete the job correctly. With the right materials and the right training, a professional mason can save you time and money.