After a few days, wash the repair area with a masonry detergent before allowing it to dry. Spray the repair area with a waterproofing agent to prolong the life of the repair. Use a sprayer and start at the bottom of the chimney, working side to side to apply the waterproofing agent. Working slowly, grind an inch or so of the existing mortar away from the horizontal joints, also known as bed joints. Do not use the grinder on the vertical joints, or you could damage the existing brick. Use the masonry chisel and hammer to chip away at the vertical joints, also known as head joints.
Easier Inspections
For health and safety, it’s worth knowing how often it’s necessary to sweep the chimney—and what could happen otherwise. Changes in weather mean animals may be seeking a new place to nest. Changing seasons can also mean falling leaves, twigs, branches, or other debris that makes its way into the chimney. If the fireplace isn’t used often, this could lead to decay, mold, or mildew, which can create odors and inhibit proper airflow when a fire is started. The cost to repair mortar on a chimney runs between $2 to $3 per square foot.
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Chimney breasts can take up a lot of room and limit where you place your furniture and valuables. Many people repurpose this space for shelving, storage, and entertainment centers.
Advised Frequency of Cleaning
However, you may need a more comprehensive inspection if you’re preparing to list your house for sale or are concerned about the structural integrity of your chimney. Regularly sweeping out the fireplace using one of the best creosote removers can reduce the amount of work that will need to be done when the fireplace is professionally cleaned each year. Beyond safety concerns, a fireplace that hasn’t been cleaned in a long time doesn’t operate efficiently. Regular cleanings can also warn of any repairs or other serious issues needing attention before they become an emergency. Dampers are small flaps opened when a fire is lit to help guide smoke up and out of the chimney.
The cost to remove a chimney breast is $1,500 to $2,500, but you may spend an additional $2,500 for new walls afterward. You can sweep your own chimney if you have the right equipment. However, the building codes in some states typically require an annual chimney inspection that only a certified technician can do properly. A chimney sweep does the inspection and cleaning within the same visit. We have discussed the importance of chimney sweeping in preventing chimney fires, improving ventilation, and identifying potential chimney issues. Factors such as usage, fuel type, chimney size, and environmental factors all play a role in determining the frequency at which you should sweep your chimney.
Ask for quotes from more than one chimney sweeping company to make sure you get the best price. Chimney sweeping is a necessary part of keeping a fireplace clean, safe, and functional. However, there are a few ways to keep chimney sweep service affordable. If the fireplace isn’t used often, it may be possible to extend the period between cleanings because there won’t be much soot buildup.
Layers of soot can build up in the fireplace if it’s not cleaned regularly, so chimney sweeps typically charge more for the additional time and effort it takes to remove the build-up. When a chimney is cleaned regularly, it’s less likely to have a harmful buildup of creosote and soot, damaging the bricks and mortar, the flue, or the chimney cap. If minor issues do arise, fixing them when they’re small usually costs less than letting them go undiscovered for years until they become significant problems. Flashing is an L-shaped piece of sheet metal inserted where the chimney abuts the roof. Its purpose is to prevent leaks and water damage by diverting water from the chimney. Without it, water can get between the chimney and the roof and even get into the house. A chimney sweep will see if the flashing is damaged during a routine cleaning or inspection and can repair it, but there will likely be an extra fee.
Professional sweeps have the necessary expertise, knowledge, and equipment to safely and effectively clean your chimney, provide detailed inspections, and offer valuable maintenance advice. Remember, regular chimney inspections and cleanings are essential for maintaining a safe and efficient chimney. If you observe any of these signs, it’s crucial to contact a professional chimney sweep to address the issue promptly and ensure the proper functioning of your chimney. The type of fireplace and chimney can affect the cost of the chimney removal project.