Tips for Restoring a Historic Chimney
Restoring an original fireplace to working condition in a pre-1900s home is an issue many homeowners face in the Richmond, VA area. To get the most out of tips for restoring a historic chimney, remember that installation of a chimney flue liner is among the crucial steps involved. It is a given that keeping the original look and charm of the chimney is another. Many obstacles may exist, and our CSIA-certified chimney sweeps have the expertise to find workable solutions.
Common Challenges Restoring a Historic Chimney
Fireplaces were often built into every room of historic homes. The first principle to understand is that a working chimney is a vital requirement for a fireplace to operate safely and efficiently. A chimney must have:
- A sufficient chimney draft that draws smoke up and out of the chimney
- A chimney liner that will contain heat and toxic fumes
- A functional damper that allows air and combustion gases to flow through the chimney
Masonry damage always needs to be addressed, whether a chimney is in or out of use. A chimney structure in disrepair can result in devastating leaks. Cracked, loose, and missing bricks must be repaired or replaced. Gaps in mortar joints are problems that should never be ignored. For masonry repair, call only qualified chimney sweeps who will identify the source of the problem. With an understanding of the cause, repairs will be made that will help prevent any recurrence of the issue after the restoration of your historic chimney is complete.
To preserve the original character of historic chimneys, special mortar may need to be used. For instance, mortar was formerly made with lime and stone, which is quite different from concrete or cement materials used today. The bricks are also different, and, if modern mortar is used, the old bricks can be damaged or become more susceptible to moisture problems.
Do Not Overlook the Chimney Cap
To keep rain, sleet, snow, creatures, and nature’s debris from entering the chimney flue on your historic chimney, a chimney cap must be installed at the top of the flue. When you rely on trusted chimney technicians, the biggest challenge is to choose a chimney cap design that will complement the chimney’s style.
Our top-notch chimney sweeps at Chimney Saver Solutions are familiar with the challenges of installing a chimney cap on a historic home. We use effective methods that will also minimize the damage to the existing masonry.
Contact the Chimney Pros for Historic Chimney Restoration
Our chimney experts at Chimney Saver Solutions have gained years of experience preserving historic chimneys while restoring the functionality of the fireplaces. The tips for restoring one historic chimney can differ vastly from another. We stand above the rest in knowing the ins and outs, whys and hows of historic chimney restoration.
Do you need reliable historic chimney restoration, new fireplace installation, chimney cleaning, a chimney inspection, a full or partial chimney rebuild, chimney flue liner repair or replacement, or any other chimney services?
Don’t hesitate! Call us today or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment.
