The cold weather and precipitation during the Tulsa winter can wreak havoc on your home. One area of your home that is particularly vulnerable to damage during the winter is your chimney. As the first line of defense from the elements, it must be in excellent condition to protect your home. Fortunately, C&C Chimney is here to make sure cold weather does not damage your chimney. Read below to learn more, then give us a call at (918)-396-8296 to schedule an appointment today!
Water Damage and the Freeze/Thaw Cycle
Winter weather and precipitation can damage your chimney in many different ways, such as the freeze/thaw cycle. Moisture from precipitation enters the naturally absorbent bricks and mortar joints of your chimney during the winter. The cold temperatures cause it to freeze and expand, and it melts as the temperatures warm. When this occurs cyclically, it leads to damaged masonry and brickwork. Spalling, cracking, chipping, and crumbling deterioration are all caused by the freeze/thaw cycle and cold weather in general. The colder weather and precipitation can also lead to rusting or deteriorating chimney components. The rust-covered chimney parts will not operate nearly as well, and it is an eyesore.
We offer many different waterproofing services to combat the freeze/thaw cycle and protect your home. We can waterproof your chimney with Chimney Saver, a vapor-permeable and mold resistant water repellent. We also replace, repair, or install chimney caps, crowns, cover, and flashing. Chase covers close off the top of prefabricated chimney systems, while caps and crowns close off the top of masonry chimneys. The flashing seals off the area where the chimney base intersects with the roof, which is a prime area for water entry.
Inspections and sweepings help detect any water damage caused by cold weather, as we will notice any leaks or other signs of damage. These are recommended annually to keep your system operating efficiently and safely. We can also repair any masonry damage caused by the cold weather through our tuckpointing and various other repair services. Our entire team has undergone rigorous training for the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certification, so we can guarantee professional and prompt service!
Animals in Your Chimney
Animals are always seeking asylum from the colder temperatures of winter. One prime spot for animals to take shelter in is an uncapped chimney because it is dry, warm, and safe from predators and the elements. Animals that often nest in chimneys include birds, raccoons, squirrels, and chipmunks. Chimney swifts are a specific type of bird known for nesting in chimneys, but they are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This means that they cannot be removed by anybody, be it a trained chimney technician or homeowner. You must wait for them to leave the chimney on their own accord.
An animal in the chimney is a major problem for any homeowner for many different reasons. Animals leave behind nesting materials such as sticks, twigs, leaves, and more. These can easily catch on fire from a stray ember, which would start a damaging chimney or house fire. These nests can also block the flue, which prevents air and smoke from properly exiting your home. This can lead a downdraft, which is when smoke travels back down the flue and into your home. If an animal is in your chimney for a long period of time, they can pass away and the remains will create an unpleasant odor in the entire house.
Noises such as clawing, scurrying, and chirping are the clearest signs of an animal in your chimney. You may also notice fecal matter or nesting materials on the floor of your fireplace. If you think there is an animal in your chimney this winter, do not use your fireplace. Homeowners should also not try to remove animals from their chimney; leave it to the professional technicians at C&C Chimney! We can remove any animals humanely and quickly, clean the chimney, and take preventative measures to ensure it will not happen again. Chimney caps are the best way to prevent animal entry. We will also detect signs of any animal entry during annual inspections and sweepings.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
Don’t let the cold weather ruin your chimney! You want to feel safe as you relax by the fireplace this winter, so give us a call at (918)-396-8296 or schedule an appointment online today! Our excellent track record of service in the Tulsa area speaks for itself!