Sound chimney flues restored in Westfield

Tiles cracked by an intense fire

A very hot fire in the flue, including a chimney fire, can crack clay tiles as they heat faster than they can expand evenly. The damage may not be visible from the fireplace, and the fireplace may seem to work normally afterward.

If you suspect a chimney fire, stop using the fireplace and have the flue assessed before the next fire. We look for cracked and displaced tiles, damaged joints and loose material, and we explain which sections could be seen and which remain uncertain.

Smells from the fireplace are a separate question

A smoky or tar-like smell from a fireplace, especially on humid days, usually comes from deposits in the flue rather than damage to the lining. Cleaning is the first step for that problem.

We tell you which you are dealing with. If the smell comes with fragments, visible cracks or smoke where it should not be, the flue itself needs a look. If not, a sweep may be all the chimney needs. Smell alone rarely means a cracked flue, and a cracked flue does not always smell. That is why we look before recommending anything.

What a flue repair estimate should list

A flue repair estimate should be specific enough to compare with another quote. Vague lines such as repair liner leave you unable to tell what is being fixed.

Ours list each item below. Book within 72 hours after the inspection and 10% off is printed right on the estimate.

• Sections of the flue included in the repair
• The method and the named product or material
• Cleaning and preparation before the repair
• Related work such as a cap, crown or cleanout cover
• Curing time and when the fireplace can be used
• Anything that could not be seen or confirmed

Working from the top of the chimney

Much flue repair is done from the roof, especially at the top sections. Access depends on roof pitch, height and how the chimney sits on the roof.

We assess access during the inspection and explain what equipment will be used. If solar panels, fragile roofing or plantings are near the work, let us know so we can plan around them. Tall chimneys may need ladder standoffs, roof anchors or staging. We tell you what equipment will be on the property, where it will stand and how the roof surface is protected while we work at the top.