Also known as a chimney liner, a chimney flue is a little-known component that serves a big role in the safety of your roofing system. Its function is so important that fire experts even recommend having the entire chimney inspected professionally at least once a year for maintenance and repair. Homeowners should be aware of the dangers of a cracked chimney flue and why it should be repaired quickly. Batts’ Chimney Services, your trusted chimney cleaning contractor, has the details.
How a Chimney Flue Works
If you’re not too familiar with what a chimney flue looks like, it’s a pipelike liner that helps the chimney operate safely. The flue is considered an essential part of the chimney structure because building one without it can pose a great danger to your home. Even a cracked or damaged chimney flue presents unique risks that affect safety and indoor air quality.
Why Cracked Chimney Flues Need Immediate Repair
If you have already found a crack but choose not to get it repaired, you may put your home’s safety at risk. Combustible materials aren’t safely controlled due to a compromised chimney flue as the heat and gasses will move much faster. This becomes a fire hazard as it can easily spark a flame when in contact with materials such as insulation and wood. To avoid this, we recommend having the chimney regularly maintained by a chimney repair service professional to identify and address the damage properly.
Without a proper chimney flue, the constant smoke and ash from your fireplace can also deteriorate your chimney and its surrounding architecture. The stonework on your chimney is also most vulnerable to long-term damage because the gasses within are acidic and can corrode even the finest masonry work. A cracked chimney flue won’t be as effective as it used to be either, as the acidic materials can easily get through the damaged layer and penetrate the brick and mortar. Mortar joints are also prone to deterioration if the chimney flue is cracked or damaged. This is because the outer masonry will be more exposed to moisture which can slowly make your chimney lean and collapse.
For your chimney sweep and repair needs, there’s one name you can count on. Call Batts’ Chimney Services today at (205) 956-8207 if you’re from Jefferson County or (256) 660-1338 if you live in Northeast Alabama. You can also fill out our online contact form to schedule an appointment.
