Buying a home involves several inspections before signing the final documents. If your potential new home has a chimney, it’s wise to ensure it hasn’t experienced a fire before you move forward with the purchase. These blazes weaken fireplace structures, and require immediate repair by chimney contractors to prevent further complications such as deteriorating roofing and wall materials. Below, learn about the signs indicating past chimney fires to help you re-negotiate the selling price.

4 Signs Of A Chimney Fire

1. Deformed Creosote

The byproduct of burning wood, creosote accumulates in any chimney and becomes a serious fire hazard without regular professional cleanings. The highly-flammable substance undergoes three phases as it hardens: flaky, crunchy or tar-like, and glazed, hard, or gummy-like. When a fire has taken place, creosote looks puffy or takes on a honeycomb-like appearance.

2. Masonry Cracks

Without timely services from your local chimney contractors, a fire causes masonry damages such as cracks, holes, and missing pieces. Deteriorating brickwork, mortar, and tile also create ventilation issues because it allows smoke to escape. If cracks and other damages are severe enough, you may be able to see them from the ground using binoculars.

3. Disfigured Cap

The chimney cap, which helps keep rain and animals out of the chimney, will look discolored and or disfigured when a fire has occurred, resulting in curb appeal issues. You may notice other warped components such as melted metal damper or smoke chamber connection pipe.

4. Melted Roofing

It’s not uncommon for roofing materials to sustain damage following this type of fire, including warped, melted, or discolored shingles. Surrounding roofing components may sustain damage as well, such as a melted TV dish or antenna. Without repairs by experienced chimney contractors, roofing materials become subject to even more damage from the elements, resulting in leaks and mold and mildew formation.

If your chimney has sustained a fire and requires repairs, the team at American Masonry & Chimney Corp can restore the structure. Based in Rochester, NY, these chimney contractors offer affordable services that keep your chimney and fireplace in excellent condition. Call the company with over 50 years of experience today at (585) 865-4170 to schedule an inspection or visit their website for a complete list of services.