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 The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends that open masonry fireplaces should be swept when 1/8″ of sooty buildup is present – and sooner if there is any glaze present in the system. And factory-built fireplaces? These should be cleaned when any appreciable buildup occurs. 

 The liner of your flue is the piece installed along the inner walls of the chimney. Its main purpose is to help direct the byproducts of combustion safely outdoors, keeping them from entering your home or damaging your chimney in the process. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), “the installation of flue lining has been recommended since the early part of this century, and indeed, most fire codes now mandate liners.” 

Major reasons for a recommended or necessary complete chimney rebuild are:

Repeated and/or improper chimney repairs and maintenance in the past

Chimney is leaning or brick is spalling, or breaking off in fragments, from the ground up

Severe mortar/brick deterioration has set in beyond the ability of a repointing repair

 The majority of masonry chimneys are built with bricks or stone bonded with mortar, a cement material, to form a sturdy and practically impenetrable structure. But like most structures, water is a mortal enemy that can bring down a chimney like a falling deck of cards.  “All masonry chimney construction materials, except stone, will suffer accelerated deterioration as a result of prolonged contact with water,” according to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). 

 Cracks, separation, or water penetration? Prolonged exposure to the elements can leave a chimney looking unsightly and vulnerable. Eventually, vertical water penetration can damage the integral structure and it may need to be rebuilt or re-lined, leading to unforeseen expenses. 

 Cracks, loose material, moss or plant growth, and water damage are all signs the crown needs to be replaced or repaired. The mortar or concrete crown is the first line of defense against water and weather. Further degradation can lead to a complete failure of the liner or underlying structure. 

 The chimney cap serves many functions, the most notable being a cover that keeps water out of your chimney. Without a cap in place, your chimney would be left with a big hole at the top and, come rain or snow, you’d find yourself with all kinds of water damage inside of your chimney. This also leaves your home vulnerable to water-related damages too.