Chimney Chase Repair
Does your house have a prefabricated chimney (a chimney that was part of the original construction)? If it’s prefabricated, your chimney has a chase, an extended, compact area that joins with your fireplace and stretches to the apex of your chimney. Located inside your chimney’s chase is what is known as the flue, which allows toxic gases and smoke to be vented from your fireplace.
The exterior of a chase is predominantly made from wood; it could also be made from brick or metal. On top of the exterior is a metal covering that protects the entire top of your chimney’s chase, which is known as a chimney chase cover. Its purpose is to protect the chimney from water damage, wildlife nests, and debris. But what if your chase is damaged? Then, chimney chase repair is required.
Does Your Chimney’s Chase Need Repair?
Sometimes, the signs that your chimney’s chase needs repair are evident; sometimes, it takes more of a trained eye to detect. Here are some signs that your chimney’s chase needs repairs:
Rust Stains
If you see rust stains streaming down the side of your chimney’s chase, there is clearly an issue with the cover or the flue.
Water Stains- If there is discoloration on your ceiling or walls around the fireplace, this issue means that there is a leak somewhere in the chase.
Water in the Firebox
Water in a fireplace’s firebox is a classic sign there is a leak somewhere in the chase. It could be a damaged chase cover or damage to the metal barrier, known as flashing, where the chimney meets the roof.
There are additional hard-to-spot signs, so your chimney should be inspected by a qualified chimney sweep service to determine if any additional problems exist.
What Kind of Repairs Are Done on a Chimney Chase?
Once it is verified that your chimney chase is damaged, it most likely will require replacement. Some small repairs can be made to fix a minor problem temporarily, but the best course of action is to replace the old chase and install a new one. It is better to replace a damaged chase than repair it and have the same problem return twofold a few years later. If you forego even having minor repairs done, then you are risking future damage, not only to your chimney but to your house as well. If your home was damaged due to negligence, insurance may not cover it. By replacing a damaged chimney cover, you save money and avoid future headaches.
Dubuque Fire Place and Patio is the Chimney Chase Authority
Do you suspect your chase is damaged? Are you seeing the signs of a leaky chimney? Is there water in your firebox? If you have any of these signs and live in the greater Dubuque area, get in touch today. We can examine your chimney’s chase for damage and perform any needed repairs before it gets out of control. So, trust us to take care of your chimney chase issues. Don’t delay, act now.
