Masonry chimneys are usually accompanied by masonry fireplaces that are simple indented walls where you create fire on logs of wood. But if you have heavy creosote buildup, you’ll have to call in a pro. We’ll show you how to inspect yours to see if it qualifies as a DIY job. He and his son Jesse are certified professional chimney sweeps. Together, this father/son team inspect, clean and repair fireplace chimneys in the Minneapolis/St. Jim also holds a certificate in forensic chimney fire analysis.
How to Find the Best Chimney Repair Companies Near Me
A cracked chimney that’s not repaired quickly can collapse and damage part of your house or increase the chances of fire. This decision will depend on the extent of the damage and your budget. If you’re only dealing with a minor issue, chimney repair is usually your best bet. However, if there is extensive damage or you want a new look, you may want to take on the cost of removing a chimney. Grout and mortar cost about $2 to $3 per square foot, plus at least $40 to $50 per hour in labor.
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DIY Chimney Sweeping Tips
Chimney sweeping is a crucial part of chimney maintenance as it helps remove built-up soot, debris, and creosote, which can pose significant risks if left unchecked. Hiring a structural engineer for these purposes will typically cost about $500. On top of this cost, the homeowner will need to hire a professional chimney demolition crew who have the knowledge, experience, and skill to safely remove the chimney. However, several elements determine the final chimney cleaning cost. If it’s been a while since the chimney was cleaned, it’s likely to need more work, which will raise the price, especially if the fireplace is used often.
Because chimneys are often deeply integrated into the structure of your home, find a reputable structural engineer to guide you and your chimney pro through the renovation process. If water is dripping in a chimney, this signifies an issue with the chimney system. Leaky chimneys can cause moisture damage to the structure of the chimney, which can eventually lead to bricks collapsing inside of it.
A contractor will find out if it’s a foundation issue by checking whether or not the chimney has level horizontal mortar joints. Another reason for a homeowner to get rid of an existing chimney is if there are any safety issues that could put the home or the residents at risk. Similarly, cracks in the firebox can lead to structural damage, carbon monoxide intrusion, and increased risk of fire. Typically, chimney removal is handled brick by brick, starting from the top of the chimney and working toward the bottom. However, not every chimney removal project involves removing the entire chimney structure. Depending on the condition of the chimney and the design of the home, residents may be able to get away with just removing a portion of the chimney while sealing the rest of the structure. Homeowners can consider these chimney removal types before deciding on the extent of the demolition project.