Is Venting an Unused Chimney Important?

Even when you have retired your masonry fireplace from use, yes, venting an unused chimney is important. It is vital to allow for continued airflow, and that’s not the only issue. Safety experts recommend annual inspections for retired, blocked off, and unused chimneys. Chimney exteriors are prone to damage, though problems are rarely obvious. Read on to learn more about the need for ongoing chimney maintenance and why venting an unused chimney is crucial.

Why are Annual Inspections Necessary for Unused Chimneys?

Yearly inspections are essential even when you are not using your chimney, experts say. Masonry chimneys are highly vulnerable to the destruction caused by moisture. There are many ways in which moisture can infiltrate a chimney system. When it happens, the affected bricks will ultimately collapse. A leaning chimney signals both moisture intrusion and a lack of chimney maintenance. Chimney leaks are also common, causing interior damage in homes. The many chimney problems that can occur are best minimized with annual chimney inspections. CSIA-certified chimney sweeps can spot destructive issues in their earliest stages. After a chimney technician completes an inspection, he or she advises the homeowner about any needed repairs.

Why Do Unused Chimneys Need Ventilation?

Ventilation is necessary for unused chimneys because, otherwise, moisture will become trapped inside the structure. Moisture together with poor ventilation creates ideal conditions for mold growth. Mold easily goes undetected and yet it can quickly spread throughout a home. A downright dangerous substance, mold is a health hazard. Symptoms caused by mold include a sore throat, coughing, nasal discomfort, and eye irritation. Mold is also destructive and stealthy, able to eat away at building materials. Tremendous damage can occur without a homeowner’s knowledge.

Why Does My Unused Chimney Need a Chimney Cap with Mesh?

A retired chimney doesn’t have combustion gases coming up from below, but things can still come in from above. A chimney cap with mesh stops animals, debris, rain, snow, and sleet from freely entering the chimney. Same as venting an unused chimney, installing a chimney cap is necessary to avoid certain disasters. Various material types are used to make chimney caps, ranging from affordable to costly. Galvanized steel chimney caps are the least expensive. Copper chimney caps are priced the highest but can do the most to complement a home’s beauty. Stainless steel chimney caps are around the mid-range for cost. Unlike galvanized steel, which tends to rust quickly, stainless-steel chimney caps are durable. Another option is an outside-mount custom chimney cap. These custom chimney caps provide aesthetic appeal and additional defense against chimney deterioration. They cover the chimney crown while also providing the basic benefits of a chimney cap. Damaged chimney crowns are common, and they increase the threat of moisture intrusion. When you protect the chimney crown with an outside-mount custom chimney cap, it helps to reduce overall maintenance costs.

Venting Your Unused Chimney

Chimney Saver Solutions offers help from qualified chimney sweeps who know about venting an unused chimney and much more. Fill out our contact form or get in touch by calling (804) 440-5000 in the Richmond VA area or (804) 794-6009 in and around Midlothian VA. Contact us today!