Are Leaning Chimneys A Cause For Worry?
Now and then, we get calls wondering about whether or not a leaning chimney is something to be concerned about. The short answer? Yes! A leaning chimney can lead to some serious damages to your home and put your family in danger, should a collapse eventually occur.
You could also see pest infestation if the chimney starts separating from the house, and you’re at a higher risk of inhaling hazardous toxins that may work their way through any cracks that have started to form.
On top of that, the tilting may have to do with your home’s foundation issues. This is something you’ll definitely want to get checked out, too! It’s obviously a serious problem, and one that should be addressed as soon as possible.
Why Is My Chimney Leaning?
So, what are the causes of a tilting or leaning chimney? Well, one of your issues may be exposure to excess moisture. Moisture and masonry don’t make a good pair at all! What happens when water gets absorbed into your brickwork? Unfortunately – decay, deterioration, and more start to occur. In addition, your entire system weakens quickly over time. All this extra damage and pressure can easily cause your structure to tilt.
Another problem you may have is an unstable foundation. Undersized footings, deterioration, and poor soil are just a few of the many foundation problems that may be causing your chimney to lean. Having a professional chimney sweep come in and check things over is your best bet for resolving the issue! They can assess the situation and guide you to the most appropriate ways to move forward.
Can It Be Fixed?
It is possible to fix a leaning chimney without an entire restoration or reconstruction job. However, first you need to get your damage looked into! Yearly chimney and fireplace inspections are recommended by the CSIA and they can make all the difference when it comes to repairing something, without a major remodel.
For a chimney inspection in the San Diego area, call on the experts at Weststar Chimney Sweeps! Our trained and CSIA-certified technicians are standing by, reading to help you out at the first sign of trouble. If you fear your chimney is suffering, there’s no time to lose!
Have You Considered Waterproofing?
Have you invested in repairs and are now ready to keep your chimney and brickwork safe from water damage down the line? If so, invest in our waterproofing services. We use top of the line products that protect your masonry, while allowing it the ability to breathe out necessary gases and vapors. It’s the perfect solution for anyone looking to ensure their chimney stands the test of time. Give us a call today to learn more about waterproofing, and be sure to ask us about our long list of other services, too!
We can’t wait to serve you soon. Pick up the phone now!