Do You Need Chimney Repair? Three Signs to Watch For

Buying your first home with a fireplace is exciting, but it isn't without its responsibilities. It is important that you familiarize yourself with the common signs of chimney trouble to help you spot problems between annual inspections and sweeping. Here are a few key things to watch for.

• Bubbling or Wrinkled Wallpaper - If you have wallpaper on the inside wall where the chimney is, watch for any bubbling or wrinkles in the wallpaper. If you start seeing things like this, that is a sure sign that there is moisture seeping in. This is often caused by cracks or other damage in the chimney, so you'll want to address it quickly.
• Damaged Mortar - Mortar is essentially the glue that holds the chimney bricks together. If you see cracks and pieces missing from the mortar, it needs attention right away. Timely chimney repair can help you preserve the structural integrity of your chimney. Sometimes, those cracks are an indication that something is shifting, so you'll want to have the whole assembly inspected and patched right away.
• Cracked Flue Tile - If the flue tiles inside the chimney crack or crumble, that could be a sign of a damaged chimney liner. Since the liner is essential for providing a heat barrier, you need to have this type of problem addressed immediately. Don't light your fireplace or use the chimney until you've had this dealt with.

When you're new to having a fireplace and a chimney, the whole process can seem somewhat intimidating. Understanding these key signs of trouble may help you to identify potential problems before they become serious threats, even if you're not due for another inspection for months.

Contact local Los Angeles CA chimney sweeps for more information on chimney repairs.