What if Your Chimney Needs Repairs in the Winter?

Repairing chimneys during our brutal Massachusetts winters can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Experienced chimney service providers know that a chimney with serious brick damage or chimney water leaks needs to be fixed, no matter what time of year.

A reputable chimney company will have ways to deal with the weather and get your chimney back to a safe, operational state.

The problem with winter chimney repair

Harsh winter temperatures can negatively affect the mortar used to hold bricks together. If mortar can’t cure properly, the chimney may never be completely sound. Warm weather is ideal for mortar to cure, but there are ways around this.

 

Crews can use tarps and other coverings as well as heaters to keep the work area relatively warm. This will make it a lot easier for the mortar to dry properly. Also, work can be scheduled on a day when rain or snow isn’t expected, which will allow the new bricks and mortar to not be wet during the rebuilding work.

Additionally, some newer masonry materials are ideal for use in very cold temperatures. A good chimney repair company should know about these materials and be able to secure them for work on your chimney.

Another issue with winter chimney repair is frozen bricks and solid ice within compromised areas of the masonry. This makes it tricky to diagnose the extent of water infiltration. Freezing won’t prevent emergency repair of leaky chimneys or damaged masonry, as long as the repair techs know how to deal with this situation.

Known chimney issues should not be put off

The ideal time to have chimney repairs done is the spring and summer. The warmer temperatures are better for the materials and safer for the workers. If you know your chimney is having issues, particularly with its masonry structure, don’t put off scheduling repairs until later in the year. Get them done now.

Winter chimney repair should only be performed in emergency situations, where serious damage or safety risk could result if the work is not completed in a timely manner.

Because of the drastically different seasons we have in New England, professional chimney sweeps and hearth industry organizations all recommend scheduling a thorough annual chimney cleaning and inspection during the spring or summer so any needed repairs can be accomplished well before the weather turns harsh.

Hiring the right chimney company

Chimney repairs at any time of year should be done only by licensed, insured chimney professionals who have verifiable experience in working on chimneys and ventilation systems.

Certification through the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) is another thing to look for as it tells you the technicians have undergone rigorous training and demonstrated the highest level of expertise in working on chimney systems.

If your chimney is having trouble during the winter, Above & Beyond Chimney Service of Dedham, MA, is ready to help you solve the problem. We’re a Massachusetts licensed contractor and bring more than 25 years’ experience to all chimney repair projects – in good weather and bad.

Speak with a certified chimney professional today at (781) 383-0415.