What We Found in Our Recent Chimney Repairs and Inspections Throughout Northern Virginia Recently
Within the past few days alone, our professional team at A Step in Time Chimney Sweeps has performed several chimney repair and inspection jobs throughout Northern Virginia (NoVA). From Springfield to Fairfax to Loudoun County, residents are readying for the colder days ahead by ensuring that their chimneys are safe, efficient, and shielded.
As winter gets closer, chimneys get more vulnerable to damage, and even tiny cracks, obstructions, or missing caps can be major safety issues. If left alone, these issues can result in chimney fires, carbon monoxide leaks, and costly structural damage.
While we were finishing the chimney inspections, cleaning, and repairs, we found some common sightings and wanted to take some time to share the same with you and discuss how homeowners in NoVA can ensure their home is safe from chimney fire hazards.
Why Chimney Maintenance Matters in this Season
Northern Virginia’s weather stresses chimneys throughout the year. Freezing evenings, high relative humidity, and the recurring freeze-thaw cycle speed up masonry cracks, leaks, and creosote accumulation. These constant natural events result in development of cracks in chimneys which is why The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 211) also states that all chimneys need to be inspected once a year and cleaned if necessary.
Our recent work illustrates why this is necessary. In nearly all instances, we found concealed dangers that might have resulted in safety concerns had they gone unchecked. From broken crowns to deteriorating liners, prompt repairs are safeguarding NoVA families.
Our Recent Chimney Work Completed in Northern Virginia
Key Findings:
1. The chimney crown exhibited several cracks permitting water entry.
2. Mortar joints on the chimney shoulder were degrading.
3. J-channel flashing along the roofline was breached.
Our Course of Action:
1. Planned installation of a new concrete chimney crown to cap the damaged one.
2. Planned scheduled tuckpointing of shoulder mortar joints to reinforce the structure.
3. Sealed both J-channels to eliminate future leaks.
Benefit to the homeowner
This client received a thorough waterproofing treatment. Repairing the crown and mortar removed water routes that would have damaged the inside. Sealing the J-channels added roof protection. Combined, these repairs lengthened the lifespan of the chimney, enhanced stability as a whole, and avoided future repair expenses, just in time for NoVA’s cold winter.
See the attached pictures to better understand what we’ve done.
Key Findings:
1. Developing cracks in the firebox leading to soot buildup.
2. The current stainless steel liner was damaged.
Our Course of Action:
1. Sealed cracks in the firebox to restore structural integrity.
2. Added a new 13″ x 19″ stainless steel cap.
3. Performed a complete chimney cleaning to ensure safe removal of creosote buildup.
Benefit to the homeowner
As a result of our service, the homeowner got a refurbished fireplace and chimney system that is not only safe, efficient, and compliant with safety regulations but also doubles the heating performance. Repairing the cracks in the firebox prevented fire from moving into adjacent masonry and the new cap we installed protect chimney system from damage, while our chimney cleaning service enhanced the heating efficiency.
See the attached pictures to better understand what we’ve done.
Key Findings:
1. The chimney crown had cracks.
2. The pipe vent was leaking at the connection point.
Our Course of Action:
1. Applied Crown Seal to the chimney crown and sealed all brick joints.
2. Repointed shoulders of the chimney and fixed the pipe vent.
Benefit to the homeowner
These specific repairs closed weak spots that commonly lead to water leaks in chimneys. By repairing the crown cracks and pipe vent problems, the homeowner avoided expensive water damage and protected the chimney from future deterioration. Repairs also enhanced overall chimney efficiency and longevity.
See the attached pictures to better understand what we’ve done.
Key Findings:
1. The chimney was clear of creosote or blockages.
2. The dryer vent was clean and operating properly.
Our Course of Action:
1. Performed a Level 1 inspection of both systems.
Benefit to the homeowner
Even though not a lot of repairing or cleaning was required, the inspection provided the homeowner with the assurance of knowing that both their dryer vent and chimney were working properly. Regular yearly inspections like this one are responsible for detecting problems early, infancy before they become expensive or safety-compromising issues.
See the attached pictures to better understand what we’ve done.
Key Findings:
1. The chimney crown was cracked, and there was water leakage.
2. Roots were discovered growing within the chimney cap space.
Our Course of Action:
1. Recommended crowning with rubberised mortar.
2. Removed plants from the cap to avoid obstructions.
Benefit to the homeowner
By identifying these atypical problems early on, the homeowner saved substantial masonry repairs. A well-resurfaced crown and unobstructed cap maintain the safety, longevity, and performance of the chimney.
See the attached pictures to better understand what we’ve done.
Key Findings:
1. Multiple water intrusion points.
2. Cracked chimney crown and decaying mortar.
Our Course of Action:
1. Installed a flex crown.
2. Repointed cracks, added water repellent, and resealed flashing.
Benefit to the homeowner
This comprehensive repair gave the homeowner long-term waterproofing protection. By fixing crown and mortar problems, they prevented interior water damage and saved the structure for years to come.
Key Findings:
1. Strong creosote odour indicated moisture in the flue.
2. Crown cracks and lost firebox mortar.
Our Course of Action:
1. Performed a complete chimney sweep.
2. Healed crown cracks and resealed the firebox.
Benefit to the homeowner
The homeowner’s fireplace is odour-free and creosote-free, which is both safe and comfortable. Repairs also safeguarded the structure from further damage.
Key Findings:
1. Broken chimney crown and eroded shoulder.
2. J-channel flashing was leaking.
3. Firebox mortar joints were failing.
Our Course of Action:
1. Rearranged the chimney crown.
2. Tuckpointed the shoulder and sealed the J-channel.
3. Repointed the firebox and treated it with water repellent.
Benefit to the homeowner
This complete overhaul provided the homeowner with a safe, durable, warranty-covered chimney system. By having several problems corrected simultaneously, the family eliminated the potential for ongoing leaks and guaranteed sound performance for years to come.
See the attached pictures to better understand what we’ve done.
Common Sightings Across all Chimney Jobs We Delivered Recently
1. Creosote accumulation was discovered in over 60% of chimneys. It means most of the chimneys require proper cleaning service before the winters.
2. Several chimneys had damaged crowns and caps were missing, meaning that homeowners didn’t pay much attention to the outer part of the chimney.
3. Cracked mortar and masonry from freeze-thaw action. This tells us that most of the chimneys were on the verge of water leakage and structural issues.
4. Lint buildup in dryer vents meaning that homeowners don’t often consider dryer vent cleaning service which is actually a big reason for housefires in Virginia.
Based on what we found, here are some of the best tips for homeowners in NoVA to ensure better Chimney Safety in their homes this season.
Best Tips for Maintaining Your Chimney Safety This Winter
1. Schedule annual chimney inspections to figure out if there is any problem in your chimney and get it fixed before it translates into an expensive repair or fire tragedy.
2. Sweep your chimney before creosote accumulation is greater than 0.125 inch as it is highly flammable.
3. Get a chimney cap to ensure there is no obstruction caused by bird nests, no flow of water or incoming debris from the chimney top.
4. Repair cracks in your masonry chimneys as soon as possible.
5. Only burn seasoned hardwood in your fireplace.
6. Look for smoke and CO detectors regularly.
For Chimney Inspection, Repair, Cleaning - Call A Step in Time Chimney Sweeps
Northern Virginia homeowners are taking the right steps by scheduling chimney inspections and repairs before winter. Our recent jobs highlight how small issues in chimneys, like cracks or creosote buildup, can become dangerous if left unaddressed.
At A Step in Time Chimney Sweeps, we’re proud to help families across entire Northern Virginia including Fairfax, Loudoun County, Springfield, Arlington, and beyond keep their homes safe, efficient, and comfortable all season long.
Ready to schedule your inspection or repair in Northern Virginia? Call us now at 703-570-7000 and book your service today.
Connor H.
Connor is expert in understanding various chimney repair.
