Chimney Repair FAQs
Bergen County's Expert Chimney Repair Specialists
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Chimneys tend to be one of the most neglected, undetected, or misdiagnosed
systems in the modern American household. And since the safe operation
of our fireplaces and wood stoves requires a properly working chimney
it's important to make sure yours is functioning safely.
How Much Do Chimney Repairs Cost?
The cost of the
chimney repair depends upon the severity of the repair. Repairs to minor cracks in the
chimney can be as low as $200 while major chimney repairs such as replacing
the chimney all the way down ot the fireplace can cost a few thousand dollars.
Will My Homeowners Insurance Cover My Chimney Repair?
When it comes to making a valid claim on your homeowner's insurance
related to chimney damage, if the damage occurs due to a sudden, unexpected
incidence your insurance will typically cover the repair cost. Chimney
damage due to normal wear and tear is generally never covered by insurance.
Ultimately, the final decision regarding coverage is determined by your
insurance policy the company you are insured with and the agent you work
with on the chimney repair claim.
How to Repair a Chimney Crown
Chimney crowns are more than decoration on the top of the chimney. They
are designed for protection. Often damage to the chimney crown goes unnoticed
because it's an area of the structure that homeowners never see unless
they are on the roof inspecting the chimney.
Very small, minor cracks in the chimney crown can be reparied with a good
waterproof sealant to prevent further expansion. If you discover more
serious deterioration or cracks, it's bes to consult with an
experienced chimney repair company. Chimney professionals can accurately determine whether repairs can be
made to the existing crown or if it is better to replace the chimney crown.
It is unwise to try and repair chimney crowns on your own. If done incorrectly
you could cause more damage to the chimney crown and what would have been
a minor, inexpensive repair could become a major expense.
What Causes Cracks in a Chimney
There are multiple reasons why a chimney can get cracks. Small hairline
cracks in the bed mortar can be caused by normal shrinkage of the chimney
and is an easy fix. Tension on the chimney caused by wind pressure can
also cause continuous cracks through the brick or block masonry. Another
common cause is settlement. If the soil that the chimney rests on is not
strong enough to support the massive load placed on it then it can cause
issues such as cracks.
If you discover cracks in a new chimney this is typically the result of
improper construction of the chimney.
Chimneys that are weakened by a defect during the building process or even
by natural deterioration can be very dangerous. With little to no warning,
weakened chimneys can collapse causing injury or even death.
Can You Repair a Chimney Damper?
If the damper is loose or off its bracket then it can be reseated. But
if the damper has become brittle and parts have snapped off then it cannot
be repaired and must be replaced.