Summer might not be a time when your thoughts turn to your fireplace, but now is the best time to think about chimney repairs. Getting your fireplace into good shape is essential before the cold weather hits and, with it being the off-season, it’s easy to get a quality contractor in to check the damage. Below, Daryl Myers Brick, located in Independence, KY, shares some signs that you might need to get chimney or fireplace repairs.

4 Signs You Need Chimney Repairs

1. Degraded Mortar Joints

Mortar is what holds your chimney together, so when it starts to deteriorate, you could be in trouble. Over time, even the best masonry job can start to crumble, exposing your brick to water seepage. When water gets into those joints and freezes during the winter, it can expand cracks and compromise the whole chimney. But if you get the needed chimney repairs done quickly, it shouldn’t cause too much damage.

2. Interior Spalling or Shaling

Moisture can have several detrimental effects on a chimney, both inside and out. Shaling occurs when bits of the interior chimney tile deteriorate and flake off. This problem may be difficult to detect, but if you start to see tiles in your fireplace, you should call in the experts. Spalling is the same kind of flaking and crumbling of the surface stone, but it takes place on the exterior of the chimney.

3. Rusting Components

Another sign of excess moisture in the chimney is when the damper or firebox start to rust. Once rust develops, it can be difficult to stop, but your chimney experts will know what to do. Rust can also damage the moving components, preventing the flue from closing and allowing even more moisture to enter the chimney.

4. Cracking Chimney Crown

The crown of your chimney is the component most exposed to the elements. If it’s damaged, moisture can quickly seep into the masonry, causing structural damage. To detect this kind of damage, the crown must be inspected from the roof.

With Daryl Myers Brick, you can get the quality chimney repairs you need to keep your home and family safe. Not only can these professionals keep your chimney functioning as it should, but they can also perform custom stone installation with retaining and landscaping walls. They don’t ask for payment until the job is complete, and they care about quality and integrity. Call them today at (859) 743-3850, or visit their website to find out how you can set up an appointment.