Dangers: A deteriorating or rusted chase cover allows water, debris, and pests to enter the chimney system, leading to structural damage, mold, and potential fire hazards. Causes: Prolonged exposure to weather elements, poor material quality, or improper installation. Solutions: We make custom chase covers from 18-gauge steel with X-breaks to efficiently expel water. Our covers feature 4-inch or larger sides, 45-degree drip-edge kickouts to keep water off the chase, a 2.5-inch neck, and all seams and corners are fully welded for maximum durability.
Dangers: A cracked or crumbling crown allows water and debris to penetrate the chimney, leading to structural damage, rust, and interior water leaks. Causes: Poor craftsmanship, freeze-thaw cycles, or weathering over time. Solutions: Our process begins with cleaning the surface, priming it with a binder, shaping it with crown mortar, and finishing it with an elastomeric crown seal for long-lasting protection.
Dangers: A damaged or missing termination cap and storm collar exposes the chimney to water infiltration, downdrafts, and debris buildup, which can lead to blockages, smoke intrusion, or corrosion. Causes: Harsh weather conditions, rust, normal wear, incorrect installation, incorrect parts, poor-quality materials. Solutions: We replace damaged components with OEM parts or approved replacement parts in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications, ensuring proper fit and long-lasting performance.
Dangers: Water damage weakens the chimney structure, causes mold growth, and accelerates masonry deterioration, leading to costly repairs. Causes: Cracked mortar joints, damaged flashing, or missing caps and covers. Solutions: We offer vegetation removal, pressure washing, and apply a hydrophobic water repellent that prevents water from entering the porous bricks. This service protects the chimney and extends its lifespan. (additionally new chase covers, crown repairs, storm collars, etc.)
Dangers: Damaged refractory panels reduce heat protection, potentially causing damage to the fireplace structure and surrounding areas. Causes: Prolonged exposure to high heat, thermal expansion, or physical impact. Solutions: We repair or replace damaged panels and offer the option to install 1/4-inch steel plates over the existing panels for a lifetime solution.
Dangers: Cracked, leaning, or crumbling chimneys can collapse, pose fire risks, or allow toxic gases like carbon monoxide to escape into the home. Causes: Settling foundations, seismic activity, water damage, or age-related wear. Solutions: Our services include tuck pointing to restore deteriorating mortar and reinforce chimney stability. As a licensed general contractor, we are equipped to repair or rebuild the chimney as necessary.
Dangers: Smoke entering the home can lead to respiratory issues, unpleasant odors, and a higher risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Causes: Blocked flue, negative air pressure, improper fireplace or flue design. (many more causes unlisted) Solutions: Smoke intrusion can result from various issues. We address these on a case by case basis but some of the solutions may include extending the chimney, adding silica sand, pre-heating the chimney techniques, new grates, sealing the chimney, testing home for negative pressure, testing draft, smoke screens, smoke baffles, and many more!
Dangers: Excessive soot can cause chimney fires, restrict airflow, and lead to smoke or toxic gas infiltration into the home. This is the #1 cause of chimney fires. Causes: Infrequent cleaning, burning unseasoned wood, or poor chimney draft. Solutions: We provide a deep clean service using specialty brushes, scraping tools, firebox scrubbing, smoke chamber scraping, and our industrial 55-gallon vacuum with a 50-foot hose that cleans from the top of the chimney.
Dangers: A damaged damper allows drafts, pests, and moisture to enter the home, reducing heating efficiency and potentially causing mold or rust in the chimney. Causes: Corrosion, warping, or debris buildup from regular use or neglect. Solutions: We disassemble the damper, restore it, and remove built-up soot from hard-to-reach areas. In some cases, cleaning out excess debris is enough to fix the damper. If not, we repair or replace the damper with a new OEM or top mounted damper as needed.