How a chimney works
Hot gases rise through a flue, which is lined to protect the brick. The crown and cap keep rain and animals out.
Each part has a job.
Common problems
Cracked crowns, failed mortar, spalling brick, rusted caps and leaking flashing are the usual culprits.
Most start small.
What you can check from the ground
Look for leaning, missing bricks, white staining and cracks in the crown. Binoculars help.
Check the ceiling near the chimney for stains.
Annual care
Have the flue cleaned and the chimney inspected before the burning season. Keep trees trimmed back.
A record of care helps at sale time.
When to call a mason
If you see leaning, loose bricks, large cracks or interior stains, call promptly. Do not use a fireplace with a safety concern.
Early repair is far cheaper than rebuilding.
Repair or rebuild
Sound chimneys can be repointed and capped. Badly damaged tops can be rebuilt.
A good mason explains both choices.
Look at the chimney each year, fix the crown and flashing early and never ignore a lean.
