Trust Winston’s Chimney for Fireplace Repair Services Near You in Great Falls, VA
If you’re searching for reliable fireplace repair services near you in Great Falls, VA, look no further than Winston’s Chimney Service. Since 1978, we’ve been helping locals keep their chimneys and fireplaces in tip-top shape. Whether your unit is smoking, has visible cracks, is producing odd odors, or just isn’t heating like it used to, our certified technicians have the tools and experience to diagnose and fix the problem right – the first time. Call today to schedule or you can book with us online.
What Are the Best Ways To Prevent Chimney Leaks?
Water is one of the most harmful things your chimney can come into contact with. If your fireplace system isn’t adequately protected against water and excess moisture, not only will your chimney and masonry break down, but the surrounding areas of your home will suffer, as well.
So, how can you prevent your chimney from leaking?
- Install a quality chimney cap. The chimney cap covers the top of the flue and keeps rain, snow, animals, and debris out of your chimney – it’s one of the most effective and affordable defenses against leaks.
- Maintain the chimney crown. The chimney crown is the concrete or stone slab that sits on top of the chimney structure (not the flue). A properly built crown with the right slope and overhang will direct water away from the bricks.
- Install flashing and keep it in good shape. Flashing is the metal seal between the chimney and the roof – a common leak point. Ensure flashing is properly installed, free of rust/gaps, and properly sealed up.
- Invest in waterproofing. A breathable masonry waterproofing product helps repel water from your porous brickwork – when properly applied. Trust an expert for this job, and don’t rely on store-bought sealants.
- Invest in annual inspections. Annual inspections help ensure your entire chimney system – from crown to flashing – is watertight and in good condition. Techs can also spot damages before they worsen.
Book your appointment with our team today.
Can You Repair an Old Brick Fireplace & Chimney?
Yes, repairing an old (or even historical) chimney is definitely possible – but it’s important to trust a team that really knows their stuff, like the pros here at Winston’s Chimney. Repairing an older chimney isn’t a job to rush, and it’s important to take certain factors into the equation – like the age of the system, the type of brick used, what type of mortar mix should be applied, etc.
What are common repairs we do for older chimney systems?
- Tuckpointing (Repointing): Over time, mortar between bricks can crack, crumble, or fall out. Tuckpointing replaces that damaged mortar with new, matching mortar. …but it’s important to match both the color and composition of the original chimney to maintain the look and structural soundness of the system.
- Brick Replacement: If individual bricks are cracked, spalling (flaking), or missing, they can be carefully removed and replaced. New bricks should be matched to the existing ones for a seamless look.
- Chimney Crown Repair or Replacement: An old or cracked chimney crown can let water seep in and damage the chimney from the top down – as well as areas of your home. It can be repaired with crown sealant or rebuilt if severely deteriorated.
- Flue Liner Repair or Installation: Many older chimneys were built without a flue liner, which is very dangerous. The good news is that a stainless steel liner can often be installed to protect your home from heat and combustion gases.
- Firebox Repair or Rebuilding: The firebox (the area where the fire burns) may have cracked firebricks or worn mortar joints. These can be repaired or the firebox can be rebuilt to meet modern safety codes.
- Smoke Chamber Parge Coating: The smoke chamber, located just above the firebox, can be corbeled or corroded in older fireplaces. Applying a smooth coat (parging) improves safety and efficiency by directing smoke up the flue more effectively.
- Waterproofing & Leak Prevention: Once the structure is repaired, applying a masonry waterproofing sealant helps protect your chimney from future moisture damage.
What Are Signs My Fireplace Needs Repair?
- You have cracked or missing mortar joints. Mortar is what holds the firebox and chimney bricks together. Cracks, gaps, or crumbling mortar can allow water to enter and cause further damage throughout your home.
- Your bricks are spalling and cracked. Spalling is caused by moisture infiltration and continuous freeze-thaw cycles. Damaged bricks weaken the fireplace structure and must be replaced.
- You’re noticing rust or corrosion. Rust on the damper, firebox, or chimney cap may mean moisture is getting in. This can lead to structural damage or a rusted-shut damper.
- Smoke is backing up into the room. If smoke doesn’t go up the chimney properly, you might have a blocked flue, a damaged liner, a drafting problem, or…something else. All of these require attention before continued use.
- There are water stains or signs of moisture around the fireplace. Signs of water damage may appear as staining on your brickwork, damp smells, mold growth, system decay/deterioration, or damage within your home. Stay vigilant and call us right away if you notice issues.
- You’re noticing strong/strange odors. A strong, smoky, or musty smell, especially during humid weather, can indicate creosote buildup or water damage. Creosote is flammable and should be removed during your chimney cleaning.
Don’t Wait! – Schedule Your Appointment Now
Great Falls Fireplace Repair Service: Give Us a Call
When your fireplace needs attention, don’t settle for anything less than professional, hometown service. Winston’s Chimney Service is here for fireplace repairs in Great Falls and the surrounding areas. Call us today to schedule your appointment – your comfort and peace of mind are our top priorities.
