Now that it’s May, the weather is finally warming up – which is a good thing if you don’t like snow and ice. But spring typically brings rain. While the roof and walls of your home protect you from rain, snow and ice, your chimney is constantly exposed to the weather. And moisture of any kind can damage your masonry chimney.

Your masonry chimney is constructed using a various masonry and metal materials, like brick, mortar, clay tile, steel and cast iron. Prolonged contact with water can cause these materials to deteriorate. For example, brick and mortar absorb water like a sponge. During the winter, the water freezes and expands. Cracks can form, deteriorating the mortar. Once the mortar cracks or breaks off, water can seep behind the bricks, causing structural damage to the chimney. Even in heavy rains, the brick and mortar can only hold so much water, which can leak into your firebox or even your home.

Water penetration can cause interior and exterior damage to your masonry chimney as well as your home. Some examples of damage include:

• Chipped, fragmented or flaked brickwork
• Deteriorated mortar
• Cracked or deteriorated flue liner
• Tilted,  collapsed  or settled chimney structure
• Stained chimney exterior
• Water-stained walls and ceiling
• Deteriorated metal or masonry firebox assemblies
• Deteriorated central heating system
• Collapsed hearth support
• Rusted damper assemblies
• Rusted fireplace accessories and glass doors
• Rotted wood mantle or interior walls
• Ruined wall coverings

If you notice any of these signs of water damage, contact the chimney professionals at T.J.’s Chimney Service, located in Greenfield, Ind. Even if you just suspect water damage, you need to take care of the problem before it gets worse – costing you more money, and, possibly, placing your family in danger. The professionals at T.J.’s Chimney Service can search for and find the source of the water damage and make recommendations for any chimney repairs. Call us today at 317-455-5310 to schedule your inspection!