As the leading provider of chimney flue repair near Philadelphia and the surrounding areas, Above All Chimneys & Masonry is well-versed in all the classic signs that something’s wrong with a chimney. There’s a draft, smoke won’t go up the chimney, rainwater finds its way in the house — we’ve seen it all! Today, we’ll focus on a particular problem that is a severe cause of concerns for homeowners — a leaning chimney.
A chimney that’s sagging or buckling has potential drawbacks; dislodged and falling bricks can cause property damage or personal injury, bugs and other vermin can enter through exposed cracks, precipitation has a higher chance of resulting in severe water damage…the list goes on and on. While some homeowners may slab on some caulk and call it a day, any DIY solutions are only temporary. As soon as you notice signs of chimney damage or foundation failure, call on Above All Chimney & Masonry as quickly as possible.
Why Would a Chimney Lean?
The bricks and stones used to construct chimneys are undoubtedly weighty, which is why they need dedicated concrete footing to support the extra weight. Check out this infographic some common culprits that compromise your chimney or its concrete foundation, and continue reading to learn more about how Above All Chimney & Masonry can help you and your home.
How Do You Repair a Leaning Chimney?
A well-installed chimney can destabilize over time through wear and tear and the natural settling of a home, especially in older properties. That being said, leaning chimneys require immediate intervention by a licensed chimney repair contractor. A standard solution we employ involves the installation of helical piers to underpin the entire structure. After, we apply clasps and brackets throughout the chimney to reinforce an upright structure.
What To Do When Your Chimney Is Starting to Lean
Chimneys are often the heaviest part of a home. When your home is need of foundation repair, a leaning chimney can be one of the first signs you’ll notice. If the issue isn’t addressed in a timely fashion, the problem can worsen, and the weight of the chimney can damage more of your property and continue to place a tremendous amount of pressure on your foundation. If your chimney is leaning, tilting, or even becoming detached from your home, it’s in your best interest to have one of our experienced contractors inspect it. For more information about chimney or fireplace restoration near Philadelphia, contact Above All Chimney & Masonry today!
