How Does Winter Affect Your Chimney?
Cold weather signals it’s nearing the time for St. Nick to begin his annual journey to deliver presents to all the good little boys and girls. Unfortunately, cold weather also signals impending snowstorms, freezing temperatures, and moisture. These are your chimney’s main enemies, and knowing how weather impacts the chimney, the types of damage it can do, and how to protect it can help you avoid costly repairs, or a complete chimney rebuild.
How Winter Weather Affects Your Chimney
Freeze/Thaw Cycle
One of the most common ways winter weather affects chimneys is through the freeze/ thaw cycle. Bricks and mortar are porous and absorb water from rain and melting snow and ice. As temperatures drop, the moisture freezes inside the bricks and mortar, causing them to expand. When ice melts, there’s contraction. This constant expansion and contraction weaken the structure, leading to cracked bricks and decaying mortar joints.
Condensation
Chimneys without proper insulation or a liner are in danger of condensation. Warm air from the home contacts the cold surface of the chimney’s interior, leading to condensation buildup.
Snow & Ice Accumulation
Snow and ice can pile up on the chimney cap, blocking airflow and messing with proper venting. When the snow melts, water can get into the flue and soak into the masonry. This extra moisture can lead to brick damage and bring in mold and mildew, which can worsen allergies and respiratory issues.
Salt & De-Icing Products
Many use de-icing products to melt snow on the roof. Unfortunately, these salts can speed up deterioration when they contact the chimney.
Types of Winter Chimney Damage
Masonry Cracks
The freeze/thaw cycle can lead to small cracks in the masonry, which worsen over time and weaken the entire structure.
Crown Damage
Chimney crowns guard against water and weather damage. However, freezing temps can cause cracks, allowing water to seep in and cause interior damage. This can lead to water leaking into the flue, causing deterioration from the inside out.
Deteriorating Mortar Joints
As mentioned earlier, mortar joints are susceptible to moisture damage during harsh winter weather. As mortar deteriorates, it leaves gaps that allow cold air and moisture to seep in. These gaps create more entry points for water, worsening the damage and compromising the chimney’s structure.
Rust & Corrosion
Metal components like the damper, cap, and flue liner can rust when exposed to moisture. Rust weakens the structure and impairs the damper’s performance, which is essential for proper airflow.
Minimizing Winter Chimney Damage
The best way to avoid major damage and costly repairs is to be proactive to stop chimney winter damage from getting out of hand. Here are a few tips.
Install a Cap
A chimney cap acts as a shield, keeping rain, snow, and debris out of the flue. It also prevents animals from settling in and making nests, leading to clogs and increasing the fire risk. If you have a cap, get the chimney contractor to give it a once-over to ensure it’s in good shape before winter begins.
Get a Professional Cleaning & Inspection
A thorough inspection and cleaning by a certified chimney professional will identify and address existing issues that could compromise chimney performance and safety. Pros check for cracks, loose bricks, and other vulnerabilities that could worsen in cold weather. Cleaning the chimney also removes creosote, reducing the risk of a fire.
Repair Cracks & Mortar Joints
It’s crucial to fix cracked bricks and deteriorating mortar joints before winter arrives. Tuckpointing can repair damaged mortar and reinforce the structure so that it can better withstand the harsh elements. Addressing these issues as soon as they’re noticed can save you from needing costly repairs down the road.
Waterproofing
After a pro inspection and cleaning, it’s a good idea to think about adding a waterproofing product. Chimney contractors have special water-repellent sealants that keep water out but still let trapped moisture escape. This helps cut down on water absorption, making spalling and masonry damage less likely.
Install a Chimney Liner
Finally, a properly installed chimney liner protects the masonry from contact with smoke, gases, and moisture. Liners also improve energy efficiency by providing insulation, which reduces the condensation that can damage the chimney’s interior.
Winter weather can take a tremendous toll on your chimney. Call Northeastern Chimney for our professional chimney cleaning, inspection, and repair service. Our certified technicians will prepare your chimney and fireplace for winter so your family can enjoy warm, safe comfort. Contact us to schedule an appointment. Homeowners in Canton, Granby, Simsbury, Windsor Locks, and Greater Hartford, CT, trust us for safe, reliable, and efficient service.