When the days grow shorter and the air turns chilly, a fireplace can be an excellent way to dispel the gloom. Because a fireplace is such an ancient, low-tech invention, many homeowners wonder whether fireplace maintenance and chimney repairs are actually necessary. The answer is that they definitely are necessary if the thought of dealing with a chimney fire or even losing your entire home in a blaze makes you the least bit uncomfortable. If you are not sure whether your chimney and fireplace is ready for cold weather, contact a qualified Texas roofing company for help.
Why Are Chimney Repairs and Fireplace Maintenance Critical?
In the United States, the average number of chimney fires annually exceeds 25,000. Many of these are due to creosote, a tar-like combustible byproduct that builds up in your chimney and fireplace when you burn wood. If you burn wood that is green or wet, the amount of creosote increases. When you light a fire, the creosote can fuel a chimney fire.
What Are Some Signs That Warn a Chimney Repair or Fireplace Maintenance Is Needed?
It is often difficult to spot a damaged chimney or fireplace just by looking at it. However, there are a few signs that are good indicators that you need to contact an Austin residential roofing company to inspect your chimney system.
1. Rust on the firebox or damper is a sign that water is penetrating and that your chimney is not functioning as it should. You may suspect a rust problem if the damper becomes hard to operate or fails to seal properly. Rust can lead to cracked flue tiles and other problems that make it dangerous to use your fireplace.
2. If the mortar joints are damaged, excess water could be penetrating, and if it freezes in the masonry cracks, serious damage can result. Given enough time, your chimney could completely collapse.
3. Spalling happens when water gets into concrete, brick or stone, causing the surface to flake off, pop out or peel off. You will see pieces of masonry that have fallen from the chimney, and if the problem is ignored, more masonry will be lost until the structure eventually collapses.
4. Cracks in your chimney crown allow water to penetrate and seep between the liner and the chimney. Water may also leak inside the chimney. This can damage the flue lining, making it dangerous to light a fire.
5. If you have wallpaper near your chimney that is showing signs of damage not found in the rest of the room, you may have a moisture problem in your chimney. Excess moisture can damage flue tiles or cause spalling.
Why Should You Call a Reputable Austin Roofer for a Chimney Repair?
In the old days, it was easy to find a chimney sweep. Today, however, you will get better results from an experienced roof contractor for the following reasons.
1. Roofers have the tools and equipment to access your roof safely and without causing additional damage.
2. Many contractors treat chimney problems as emergency roof repairs due to the potentially serious consequences of delaying action.
3. Moisture in a chimney can actually be caused by a roof leak. Some leaks can follow meandering paths, so although the water could be dripping into your fireplace, the source could be far from your chimney.
If you suspect that you have a problem with your chimney, contact the experts at Alpha Roofing to schedule a rooftop inspection. We have the training and experience to handle your roof or chimney repairs. We also install metal roofs, asphalt shingles, skylights, flashing, and siding. We have an outstanding reputation for quality and impeccable references, but our rates are extremely competitive. You can call 512-777-1086 or submit the online form to receive a free quote.