Why are the Bricks on My Chimney Falling Apart?

Have you noticed some of the bricks on your chimney starting to fall apart? The cause might be due to a condition known as brick spalling.

 

What is Brick Spalling? 

Brick spalling commonly occurs when water enters masonry materials like concrete or brick and then freezes, expanding beyond its boundaries. This expansion can cause minor or large chunks of the masonry material to separate or flake off. 

Spalling can also occur due to other causes like chemical reactions, weathering, and mechanical pressure. Bricks can begin to fall apart due to a variety of reasons, such as:

• Old age
• Weather and water damage
• Cheap mortar
• Poor chimney construction
• Poor quality bricks
• House settling

Regardless of the cause, spalling usually has some tell-tale signs that your chimney might be experiencing this damage. 

Signs of Chimney Spalling 

If your chimney is experiencing spalling, you might be able to see physical signs like missing pieces of bricks or mortar. You may also notice a white powdery substance on the masonry material's surface caused by salt deposits. This damage can also cause:

• Water in the firebox
• Loose bricks
• Rusted damper
• Damp walls and ceiling near the chimney
• Bad odors coming from your fireplace

Even if you can't see any physical signs, it's important to have your chimney inspected regularly for potential damage. 

How Can I Prevent Chimney Spalling? 

The best way to prevent brick spalling is to keep water away from the masonry material as much as possible. It's also important to make sure that your chimney is up-to-date with all its necessary maintenance, such as having the flue regularly inspected and swept by a professional chimney sweep. A professional chimney sweep will typically install chimney liners to help reduce the risk of spalling. 

How Can I Repair Chimney Spalling? 

If you've noticed signs that your chimney is experiencing brick spalling, it's important to have it repaired by a professional in Pittsburgh. A certified chimney repaisr technician can properly inspect your chimney and assess any damage. They can then recommend the best course of action to repair any damage and prevent further spalling. 

The repair process may involve tuckpointing or replacing a section of the chimney masonry with new bricks. The professional will also take steps to waterproof your chimney and ensure it doesn't have any weak spots that could cause more spalling in the future. 

Spalling can cause serious damage to your chimney, so taking the necessary steps to prevent and repair this issue is important. You can protect your home from long-term damage by staying on top of regular maintenance and having a professional inspect your chimney for signs of spalling. 

Expert Chimney Repairs by Piccadilly Chimney Sweep

If you have any questions or concerns about brick spalling in your Pittsburgh chimney, don't hesitate to contact the professionals at Piccadilly Chimney Sweep today. They can help keep your chimney in the best shape possible and ensure it's safe for you and your family.