What You Need to Know About Chimney Mold
Did you know that mold can grow in your chimney? By answering basic questions, we will share what you need to know about chimney mold. What causes chimney mold to grow? Is the presence of chimney mold a health threat? What are some of the signs of chimney mold growth? How can you get rid of it? And is there any way to prevent chimney mold? Our CSIA-certified chimney experts at Chimney Saver Solutions are concerned about all safety issues related to chimneys and fireplaces. So, we are happy to provide this important information, as follows.
What Causes Chimney Mold?
Moisture is the number one fundamental threat to chimneys. Chimney mold is among the problems caused by moisture intrusion. Water makes its way into chimney systems as a result of deterioration. Whether the mortar, chimney crown, or masonry is damaged, these components and others will accommodate moisture intrusion unless they are repaired in a timely manner. The flashing can pull away, or the chimney cap could suffer disrepair in a storm.
Mold thrives anywhere it is moist and dark. The inside of a leaky chimney is a great breeding ground for mold.
Is Chimney Mold a Threat to Health?
Besides being unsightly in appearance, mold can cause problems far worse than creating a musty smell. Health problems caused by mold can be as mild as itchy eyes, sneezing, and skin irritation. Spores released into the air by mold can also aggravate allergies and cause asthma attacks. Even worse effects of mold are possible, including those associated with mold poisoning. Symptoms include:
- Chronic fatigue
- Dizziness
- Difficulty breathing
- Chronic coughing or sneezing
- Persistent headaches
- Nausea
- Asthma attacks
What are Signs of Mold Growth?
If you see mold on the outside of your chimney, it may be an indication that it is growing inside your chimney, as well. Chimney mold appears as black or green spots. An earthy, musty smell coming from your fireplace is another good indication that you have chimney mold.
How Do You Get Rid of Chimney Mold?
Because it is a toxic substance, be sure to contact your trusted chimney sweep company for the removal of chimney mold. You can find do-it-yourself solutions for removing chimney mold, but there would likely be no way to access mold growth deep within the chimney flue. Professional chimney sweeps have the training, experience, and tools to effectively and safely remove chimney mold.
Is There a Way to Prevent Chimney Mold?
A good question to ask is whether chimney mold is a problem that can be avoided in the first place. Simply using your fireplace regularly during cold weather helps by circulating air and preventing the accumulation of moisture. Scheduling annual chimney inspections and cleaning is recommended by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) also recommends annual chimney inspections, but they suggest having your chimney cleaned when the buildup of creosote is 1/8” thick.
There’s another vital thing you need to know about chimney mold. It is essential to get a chimney cap installed if you don’t already have one. The chimney cap is a first line of defense against moisture getting into the chimney and creating problems such as mold growth.
After your chimney has been inspected and has been found with no signs of water intrusion, schedule waterproofing of the chimney. Contact chimney sweeps for this service because it is important that the correct sealant be used. Also, proper application makes all the difference.
Contact the Chimney Pros if You Have Chimney Mold
With the CSIA-certified experts at Chimney Saver Solutions caring for your chimney, you have nothing to fear, even if you spot mold growth. Although we’ve shared what you need to know about chimney mold, you can just skip down to our phone number. We’ve got you covered for any chimney services you might need, including the removal of chimney mold. Our comprehensive services include chimney inspections, chimney cleaning, masonry repair, the removal of chimney mold, fireplace installation, animal removal, flashing repair, tuckpointing, and much more.
Call us today at 804-440-5000 or fill out our online form.
