You have probably heard the predictions for how rough this winter will be. Some say that we may even see more snow and ice this year than we did last year. Preparing for this harsh, cold weather is an important task for homeowners, and it is essential that your fireplace and chimney are ready to withstand brutally cold temperatures. At Ace Chimney Sweeps, our Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)-certified chimney experts have years of experience in preparing the chimneys in the Elkton, Maryland area for rough winters. We would like to tell you more about the damage cold weather can do to chimneys and how we can protect your fireplace and chimney from suffering from this kind of damage.
How can cold weather damage my chimney?
Have you noticed how many potholes show up after a winter storm? These are the results of spalling damage which occurs when the temperature drops below freezing. Concrete and other masonry materials are very absorbent, so any water that is trapped inside also freezes when the temperature drops. When water freezes, it expands, so when the water thaws, it causes the masonry materials to crack and break apart. This same process occurs in the bricks and mortar of your chimney. Each time the temperature falls below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, spalling happens. If this damage is left unrepaired, the structure of your chimney is seriously compromised. Your entire chimney could even collapse.
How can Ace Chimney Sweeps prepare my chimney for a harsh winter?
The first step to preventing spalling damage from happening to your chimney is to ensure your chimney has no leaks. Our chimney technicians can inspect your chimney to check for any leaks and make recommendations for any necessary repairs. Once your chimney is in good condition, we offer several services that can protect your chimney from water leaks.
Chimney Cap Installation
According to the CSIA, a chimney cap is the least expensive preventive measure to take against water penetration of your chimney. Not only does a chimney cap keep water out of your chimney, it also prevents birds and wild animals from getting into your chimney. If your chimney is not capped or if your existing cap has been damaged, we can install a new chimney cap to protect your chimney this winter.
Flashing
To protect your chimney from leaking where it meets the roof, you need a customized flashing system to keep water from entering. When we create a flashing system, we take precise measurements of your chimney to know exactly what sizes of metal sheeting are needed to be installed around your chimney at the roof. You can trust Ace Chimney Sweeps to install a flashing system that will protect your chimney.
Waterproofing
Our chimney technicians can apply a 100% vapor permeable formula to the exterior of your chimney that will create a barrier to water from rain and melted snow. The waterproofing formula comes with a 10-year warranty, so you will have the peace of mind from knowing that the bricks and mortar of your chimney are protected from water penetration and spalling damage.
Be sure your fireplace and chimney are prepared for the upcoming rough winter, Contact us at Ace Chimney Sweeps to schedule an appointment for a chimney inspection today.