Cracks in your Chimney? Identify of the Most Common Causes of Cracks.

Chimneys are built to last for long; however there is a lot which can go wrong during their lifetime, particularly if their maintenance is neglected.  Cracks on the inside and outside walls are some of the shortcomings that develop over a long time of use or, in some circumstances, due to poor maintenance. After exposure to the various elements, the mortar joints which are in the middle of stone and brick construction may begin to flake and leave cracks behind, thereby compromising the integrity of the chimney. So, what causes these cracks?

Let’s find out some of the common cause of cracks in the chimney which can definitely help to keep the chimney of our home in the perfect condition.

Poor Construction

Poor construction of the chimney is one of the ways for cracks to form in both domestic or commercial chimneys.  The chimney should have a solid flue system foundation because if the footing is defective or damaged, it will initiate movements such as bends, leans and curls that eventually end up in mortar joint cracks.

There should be sufficient space between the sides of the chimney and the flue line to facilitate expansion during the construction of the chimney. If there is a failure to leave this gap, the two parts will press against each other during thermal expansion, leading to cracks. Peter's General Construction LLC can redo a chimney that is badly constructed to reduce its susceptibility to cracking.

Mechanical Stress

A chimney might develop cracks due to certain mechanical aspects. One of these mechanical aspect is being a chimney mounted antenna. Such a component will exert undue pressure on the chimney, causing mortar flake. Earthquakes or blasting (if a property is near a blasting site) can also cause mechanical stress in the chimney. If the home or commercial property is in an area which experiences frequent earth disturbances from the surroundings, then the risks of mechanical stress are higher.

Weather Elements

Water is the most common culprit for the cracks all over the chimney. In case a flue is left open during the rainy season, water will make its way down. It will freeze when the temperatures fall, consequently causing the mortar in the bricks to crack.The wind is another element which may put a lot of tension force on the chimney such that after a long period, the construction starts feeling by loosening the mortar between bricks.

Whether you’re dealing with simple hairline cracks, long vertical openings or collapsing bricks, Peter's General Construction LLC that performs chimney repairs has got you covered.

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