Why do I need a chimney repair?

A chimney is a crucial part of your home and will require regular care and upkeep to stay in good working order. Your chimney has many important functions by releasing smoke and excess gases from inside your home. The crown protects the top of your chimney from any water damage including weather, such as flooding or high winds that can damage this critical component. Flues function to safely direct heat and gasses up and out of your chimney while vents allow air into the system so that it can operate efficiently. Damaged components should be repaired or replaced immediately for safety reasons because without proper precautions, you risk exposing yourself, family members and pets to extremely harmful elements such as carbon monoxide and fire! Chimneys that have been neglected also pose a serious threat to the structural integrity of your home. A large part of the support for your roof is taken up by an intact chimney. If you fail to address any potential problems when they occur, this can lead to significant damage and repairs may no longer be covered under your homeowner's insurance policy. You need prompt repair services to prevent further damage and keep your family safe!

What causes chimneys to leak?

Damaged or missing crown: The crown prevents water from entering the top of your chimney and causing rot and other issues by diverting it away from your roofline. Heavy winds, ice dams, and storms can cause damage that leads to leakage if not repaired immediately. Missing or damaged flue: The flue is used to channel harmful gases out of your home and away from you, your family, and pets. If the seal around your chimney liner is compromised, this will lead to leakage. A draft can also be affected by a damaged flue allowing smoke back into your home. Contact us for more information on our repair services. Capped chimney: Chimneys with caps are an attractive addition to any roofline but they pose a serious risk if not properly maintained. Ice dams can damage caps causing leaks during periods of thawing, especially if the cap was installed by amateurs without proper training or equipment. Regular maintenance is essential for keeping this part of the system in good condition.

What is base flashing?

Base flashing is another chimney repair that we commonly see on chimney crowns and chimneys that have had a chimney liner replacement. If not installed properly, there is an opportunity for water to seep in behind the base flashing and lead to extensive damage. If there is damage to the caulking around your chimney, you can remove it and replace it with new caulking. However, if the damage is more serious, you may need to have a new chimney crown or liner installed.

What are mortar joints?

Mortar joints are the spaces between bricks that make up a chimney. If a masonry contractor repairs or replaces a brick on your chimney, they will also need to refill the mortar joint. This is important to ensure that the new brick is secure and ready for its next use. If you think that your bricks may be damaged, it is important to ask the contractor if they will remove all of the mortar joints. This is because some contractors may do this as part of their service in order to repair the damage. If the mortar joint needs repair work, we will advise on whether or not replacement is needed as well.

What do the repairs entail?

We take pride in offering friendly and professional services to know precisely what work is being done and why it needs to be done that way. Our technicians will double-check the information provided by the homeowner (including photographs) and talk with them at length about their specific situation. All inspections are customized for each home based on its unique structure and location. After the inspection is complete, we will present the necessary work that needs to be done. Our goal is to make sure you always know what we see and why we see it, so there are no surprises along the way.

Chimney Repair in NJ

The chimney is the heart of a home. Unfortunately, it's also one of its most vulnerable points. A damaged chimney can cause expensive damage to your roof, floors, and walls, potentially costing you thousands of dollars in repairs or replacements.

One of the most common causes of water damage is water entering through cracks in the masonry. A simple crack in the crown of your masonry chimney can go through a freeze-thaw cycle, which is notorious for expanding the damage.

More significant crevasses create additional open areas for water to enter. This issue is amplified even further during the winter as New Jersey goes through the freeze-thaw cycle, causing your chimney to start to leak. Leaks can lead to severe problems, such as mold and mildew growth, structural damage, and even health problems. Therefore, if you think you have a water leak, it's essential to act quickly to prevent further damage.

At Heavenly Construction, our clients regularly hire us to replace their flue liner, masonry, chimney cap, etc. Our greatest goal is customer happiness. Our staff is committed to giving our clients the best customer service experience possible!

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8 Reasons Why a Chimney and Roof Is Repaired

There are several ways to determine that your chimney requires repair. Perhaps the most obvious sign is a crack in the brick or mortar that makes up your chimney. Another way to tell if you need repair services is by noticing cracks or holes inside your home near where your chimney sits; this could indicate leaking and possible water damage.

You don't have to live with these problems, though. Contact Heavenly Construction today for all your chimney repair service needs! If you would like to learn more about repairs, we have compiled information sourced from the Chimney Institute of America (CSIA) and our own experiences over the years.

1. White Staining (Efflorescence) On Masonry

If you see white staining on your chimney, it is a sign that you need to take some immediate action. This staining is usually caused by excessive moisture, leading to the brick and mortar joints deteriorating. If this happens, your chimney may start to lean or crumble. The white powdery appearance on a brick chimney is called efflorescence (accumulation of minerals).

The amount of efflorescence on masonry indicates the potential dangers that a liner may be subject to. During the winter in New Jersey, we usually look for signs of combustion gases from the furnace and water heater escaping out and onto the masonry. This can lead to several issues for a property owner, and the most common outcome is a total loss of heating.

2. Rust on Metal

If you see rust on any metal elements in your chimney, it's time to replace them with new ones. Some areas that you can expect to have rust are sheet metal, metal flashing, stainless steel liners, or other types of flashing material. Replacing your chimney flashing is essential because it helps waterproof your chimney and keep water from leaking and causing damage. Rust can also signify weak metal that is more likely to crack or flake.

One common misconception about rust is that it tends to spread on surfaces, which is not valid. Instead, any areas where oxidation occurs on metal flashing or roofing will worsen over time. Additionally, parts of a rusted chimney can negatively affect an entire roof's appearance, and as a result, we're commonly asked to replace these metal materials. Thus, it's always better to get these parts replaced so that your chimney can continue to function correctly.

3. Deterioration of Mortar Joints

Mortar joints between chimney masonry are an issue you should have fixed soon. A mortar joint is a space between bricks on a chimney filled with mortar, or what most people refer to as roofing cement. When mortar joints fail, moisture can get higher inside the vent.

As a result of this further dampness, the bricks may be exposed to even more water and cause additional damage. Furthermore, if you neglect to repair this issue, it will only worsen.

4. Signs of Spalling

Spalling describes the flaking, popping, or peeling of masonry around the bottom of your chimney from the outside. If left untreated, spalling can lead to your chimney collapsing.

If you're concerned about spalling on your property, contact Heavenly Construction today and ask for our chimney repair service. We will be able to assess the damage and recommend the best course of action to take. So don't wait until it's too late - get your chimney repaired today!

5. Ceiling or Wall Stains

The leak is generally quite far along and should be addressed soon if you're noticing discoloration. Additionally, the water could seep behind the tile and cause extensive damage to both the tile and the wall. Depending on how big the leak is, you may want to call a professional to come in and help.

If the leak is small, you may be able to fix it yourself. First, identify the source of the leak. Next, check for any cracks in the tile, a hole in the grout, or a problem with the sealant. Once you've located the source, clean the area well and apply a new sealant layer. If the leak is coming from a crack in the tile, you may need to replace the tile altogether.

If you notice a musty smell, mold or mildew has likely begun to grow. Mold and mildew are serious health hazards, so it's essential to address the problem as soon as possible. Mold and mildew thrive in damp, dark environments, so keep the area around your leak as dry as possible. You may need to use a dehumidifier to help with this.

Once you've fixed the leak, you can take steps to help prevent it from happening again. We recommend checking the area around your leak regularly for signs of moisture. You may also want to consider waterproofing your home to help prevent future leaks.

Discoloration, musty smells, and dampness are all signs that you have a water leak. By doing so, you can prevent severe damage to your home and keep your family safe.

6. Chimney Crown Damage

A cracked chimney crown can allow water and other debris to enter your home, leading to shaling and spalling. Therefore, it's crucial to keep an eye on the crown and repair any cracks as soon as possible to avoid further damage. When a chimney crown is in good condition, it provides the first line of defense against the weather.

Over time, however, small cracks can form and eventually expand if left unchecked. By regularly inspecting the crown and repairing any damages, you can help keep your chimney in top condition.

7. Excessive Amounts of Creosote

The black, tar-like substance you can see within your flue is called creosote. This substance is what the chimney sweep cleans out of your chimney every year. Excessive creosote can restrict airflow and cause a chimney fire.

Creosote is a combustion product and is composed of many things, including unburned wood particles, soot, tar vapors, and chemicals that condense from the smoke. All of these things work together to adhere to the inside surfaces of your chimney.

Creosote is highly combustible and a leading cause of chimney fires. When it builds up in your chimney, it restricts airflow and is one of the main reasons your chimney needs to be cleaned.

If you have a wood-burning fireplace or stove, it is essential to have your chimney cleaned regularly. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends having your chimney inspected annually and cleaned if necessary.

8. Small Animals Getting Into Your Home

There are various entry points for pests to get inside your home, but your chimney may be one of them. If you find that the pests in your home are generally concentrated in the area where your chimney is, they may be entering via cracks (if they're small enough) or the chimney itself.

Certain pests are attracted to the warmth that your fireplace emits, so they may be coming down the chimney in search of a comfortable place to nest.

If you think that pests are entering your home via your chimney, it's essential to have it inspected and sealed if necessary to prevent further incidents from happening. These issues can not only be a nuisance, but they can also carry diseases and cause damage to your home.

Exceptional Customer Service

Customer satisfaction is our top priority. Our roofing and chimney company is dedicated to providing the best possible experience for our customers. We are constantly working to improve our products and services to meet your needs better.

All necessary equipment will be brought onto the roof, and we can begin our inspection. We will carefully look for signs of damage, leaks, cracks, or other concerns before coming inside to provide a full report on what repairs or replacements need to be made. You can expect prompt and courteous service from start to finish.

Chimney Flashing Repair

Chimney flashing will be your first problem area to address when there's leaking from the chimney. For water not to drip down behind the seams of the siding and make its way into your home, there must be a waterproof membrane installed over the brick fireplace before installation. This prevents moisture from penetrating the insulation and the structure of your home.

Flashing around a chimney must be in top shape or it will not be able to prevent water from seeping through and therefore lead to extensive and costly repairs. This repair is common when there has been a recent storm, such as Hurricane Sandy, because of the damage they cause. Whether you need flashing repaired due to storm damage or for another reason, we can help. We also offer installation services so you won't have to do any work yourself.

Chimney Crown Repair

The crown of your chimney serves an important purpose: it prevents water from entering your home by diverting it away from your roofline. Since the crown is located at the very top of your chimney, it is subject to more damage from the elements. When wind sweeps over your roof, it will often pick up anything that's loose and deposit it on your chimney crown. Water can also cause problems if not maintained properly.

If your home has been damaged in a storm, it is important to have a professional inspect the damage to the crown. The crown is the part of the roof that protects the rest of the house from water and weather damage. Even a small leak can lead to rotting of wood fascia boards and even worse structural damage if left untreated. Heavenly Construction offers repair services for all baked-on coatings including masonry chimney crowns.

Chimney Flue Repair

Your fireplace flue needs to be in good working condition to ensure that harmful gases and smoke do not enter your home and cause damage. If the flue is damaged, it will require repair services to prevent leakage.

A leaking chimney liner can become an issue if there has been a recent storm or flooding in your area. High winds can also damage the seal on this part of the chimney which is why we always recommend calling a professional after such severe weather events. We also offer repair services for leaky chimney flues resulting from normal wear and tear over time.

Chimney Cap Replacement

A chimney cap is a vital part of your home's fireplace system, and it's important to keep it in good condition. A damaged or missing chimney cap can allow water and debris to enter the chimney, which can cause extensive damage over time.

We replace missing or damaged chimney caps with new ones that are properly sealed and fit snugly on top of the chimney. The caps we carry are made from durable materials that can withstand extreme weather conditions.

Chimney Vent Repair

Vents serve as important safety devices and they help to ensure the proper operation of your chimney by releasing potentially harmful gases outdoors. Vent damage can lead to dangerous chimney fires, especially if the chimney has an old chimney cap or obstructions are blocking the vent.

If you see smoke coming from your chimney when it shouldn't be, or if your fireplace doesn't produce enough draft to stay lit, then you may need to call for repair services. Depending on the severity of the problem, chimneys which have vents obstructed by ice dams may be able to be repaired without replacement.

However, chimneys with severely damaged vents will likely need a new one installed either before or during our other chimney service work.

We Are The Trusted Chimney Repair Company in NJ

Heavenly Construction LLC is a local, family-owned, and operated New Jersey roofing company that is licensed (C-10) and insured for your protection. Our crew is friendly, professional, knowledgeable, and trained to offer the best solution for your chimney repair needs.

We offer a 100% warranty on our work because we want you to be happy with our quality service! Call us today or schedule an appointment online.

Common Questions About Chimney Repair

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get asked about repairing chimneys.

Why do I need a chimney repair?

A chimney is a crucial part of your home and will require regular care and upkeep to stay in good working order. Your chimney has many important functions by releasing smoke and excess gases from inside your home. The crown protects the top of your chimney from any water damage including weather, such as flooding or high winds that can damage this critical component.

Flues function to safely direct heat and gasses up and out of your chimney while vents allow air into the system so that it can operate efficiently. Damaged components should be repaired or replaced immediately for safety reasons because without proper precautions, you risk exposing yourself, family members and pets to extremely harmful elements such as carbon monoxide and fire!

Chimneys that have been neglected also pose a serious threat to the structural integrity of your home. A large part of the support for your roof is taken up by an intact chimney. If you fail to address any potential problems when they occur, this can lead to significant damage and repairs may no longer be covered under your homeowner's insurance policy.

You need prompt repair services to prevent further damage and keep your family safe!
What causes chimneys to leak?

Damaged or missing crown: The crown prevents water from entering the top of your chimney and causing rot and other issues by diverting it away from your roofline. Heavy winds, ice dams, and storms can cause damage that leads to leakage if not repaired immediately.

Missing or damaged flue: The flue is used to channel harmful gases out of your home and away from you, your family, and pets. If the seal around your chimney liner is compromised, this will lead to leakage. A draft can also be affected by a damaged flue allowing smoke back into your home. Contact us for more information on our repair services.

Capped chimney: Chimneys with caps are an attractive addition to any roofline but they pose a serious risk if not properly maintained. Ice dams can damage caps causing leaks during periods of thawing, especially if the cap was installed by amateurs without proper training or equipment. Regular maintenance is essential for keeping this part of the system in good condition.
What is base flashing?

Base flashing is another chimney repair that we commonly see on chimney crowns and chimneys that have had a chimney liner replacement.

If not installed properly, there is an opportunity for water to seep in behind the base flashing and lead to extensive damage. If there is damage to the caulking around your chimney, you can remove it and replace it with new caulking. However, if the damage is more serious, you may need to have a new chimney crown or liner installed.
What are mortar joints?

Mortar joints are the spaces between bricks that make up a chimney. If a masonry contractor repairs or replaces a brick on your chimney, they will also need to refill the mortar joint. This is important to ensure that the new brick is secure and ready for its next use.

If you think that your bricks may be damaged, it is important to ask the contractor if they will remove all of the mortar joints. This is because some contractors may do this as part of their service in order to repair the damage.

If the mortar joint needs repair work, we will advise on whether or not replacement is needed as well.
What do the repairs entail?

We take pride in offering friendly and professional services to know precisely what work is being done and why it needs to be done that way. Our technicians will double-check the information provided by the homeowner (including photographs) and talk with them at length about their specific situation. All inspections are customized for each home based on its unique structure and location.

After the inspection is complete, we will present the necessary work that needs to be done. Our goal is to make sure you always know what we see and why we see it, so there are no surprises along the way.