Cracks or Damage to the Structure of the Chimney
Potential buyers don’t want to see a cracked fireplace. In fact, they likely don’t want to see cracks in anything in their future home.
But the reality is that cracks are part of most structures: concrete, brick, stucco, plaster, and more. Some are expected and inevitable. Others are just plain ugly. And some are dangerous. As a home inspector, it’s important that you know how to differentiate between the causes and consequences of cracks.
More visible cracks in the chimney bricks come from the freeze/thaw cycle. Bricks and concrete are porous and, as such, absorb water from rain or snowmelt. Once the water is inside the structure and the temperature drops again, it freezes and expands. Often, the brick or other material cannot withstand the pressure, and cracks form.
Soil preparation is key
Like any structure, the foundation must be properly prepared to support it. As with a retaining wall, path, or walkway, the lower area should be excavated and filled with gravel. Otherwise, air pockets may form and destabilize the structure.
Even if the cracks are small and only in the mortar, if vines are allowed to grow in the chimney, their roots can penetrate the crevices, making them wider and eventually destroying the chimney. It may seem hard to believe, but vines can grow thick and strong enough to support a person’s weight and even knock down a healthy tree.
Regardless of how a chimney cracks, it needs to be repaired. The longer a crack remains outdoors, the more moisture can infiltrate and further undermine the structure.
Fire can be dangerous for chimney
Although chimneys are built for the purpose of safely containing fires, the truth is that heat can jeopardize their durability. A fireplace that is a frequent scene of large hot fires can suffer cracks due to it. In addition, a damaged coating or creosote buildup can cause the fire in the chimney to rise up and damage the chimney.
Tree roots growing under the chimney can push it upward and cause it to shift and crack, and drainage problems can cause the area under the chimney to become unstable, which can also lead to cracks.
Also look for any suspicious caulk or flashing that you find between the chimney and the roof. Of course, there should be flashing here, but if it looks extensive or like it’s been replaced repeatedly, it could be because the building and chimney are separating.
Fireplaces are an integral part of many homes, so their safety and integrity must be certified.
Some chimney cracks can be repaired
Some crack patterns are more dangerous than others. Carefully inspect the chimney, both from the inside and the outside, and look for cracks, as well as its width and length. Also note if the chimney is tilted. Any of these discoveries merit the recommendation that the chimney be evaluated by a professional chimney inspector for safety and integrity.
You can always contact a certified professional who is prepared to inspect the fireplace without any risk. The professionals at Seattle Pros are experts in chimney inspection, you can contact them if you require it.