Without being an expert, there are some visible signs that can tell you if your chimney needs maintenance. Some of these indicators are:

• The fireplace is foul-smelling. This shows you the chimney liners are not working; they are a fundamental part of your chimney as they pull the fumes out of your house. It can be unpleasant –not to mention extremely dangerous. 

• Cracks on the crown or bricks falling off the chimney. While damage to the crown is harder to notice –most homeowners rarely get on top of their fireplaces, pieces of blocks dotting the ground are also a symptom of your chimney requiring fixing. Fresh mortar and bricks need to replace damaged ones.   

• There is mortar damage between the bricks. No doubt, the number one sign. Cracks or holes are a clear indicator that the mortar needs repair. Not attending this can cause many problems, such as water getting inside and permanently damaging it. To avoid this, tuckpointing is the best technique to address chimney issues. It can make your chimney look as good as new, and better yet, prevents further problems. 

The most basic steps to maintain your chimney include: remove ashes, remove fire stains, and clean the surface to the top. Nonetheless, chimney maintenance is a job for professionals; it gets much better results, and it is hassle-free. 

Chimney Tuckpointing

As we mentioned above, mortar damage is the most common reason why you need to call a professional company. Snow, ice, or water can infiltrate through the cracks and deteriorate the nearby areas. The process of tuckpointing involves restoration to the masonry mortar joints between the bricks. All blocks, stones, and bricks defaced are taken off and replaced by new ones. The failing mortar also gets replaced. When the technique is applied correctly, the result is a durable, water-resistant joint that prevents future chimney repairs and extends the life of the masonry. Tuckpointing is both a corrective and a preventive procedure. 

When maintaining a chimney, often, other processes come to mind, such as stain removal or sweeping. But, tuckpointing should be on the mind of every chimney-owner, as crumbling, failing mortar it is an evident sign that the weather has taken a toll in the structure and surface. Besides, failing to tuckpoint your joints will result in a much more expensive repair procedure. 

Aside from taking care of your joints, make sure to comply with the following for a durable, beautiful chimney:

• Sweep it regularly –professionally. 
• Inspect it often, both in the inside and outside. Look for cracked mortar and joints.
• Clear ash and debris.
• Remove stains.
• Clean and polish all decorative items.

For everything involving chimney maintenance: cleaning, inspection (look out for foul smell or cracked surfaces), and tuckpointing, the best is to call a professional company. 

A fireplace is a lovely addition to a house. It serves beautifully as a decorative item and brings warmth to the home. For effective usage, be sure to maintain your chimney adequately and check it often.

To get a free estimate, or a consultation with the best in the St. Louis area, call Marlon Tuckpointing LLC at (314) 496 9067. For more info on their services, testimonies and photographs of their work quality, be sure to check their website. Just click here: https://marlontuckpointing.com/