Chimney crown repair projects need to be done carefully and properly. The first task requires deep checking the chimney to figure out whether there happens to be any flashing or not. It is also necessary to check the mortar and bricks to find out about their positioning. Are they perfectly intact? You need to figure it out. If any plants and shrubs are growing through the bricks, then you should get them removed as early as possible.

Chimney crown inspection

It is absolutely necessary to check out the chimney crown to figure out whether there happens to be any gaps with the cement patching work or some kind of crack. It is also mandatory to get the chimney gap removed to find out whether the flue liner is in best of shape or not. Are there any sort of obstructions or damages to the liner? It is also essential to check the firebox attached to the fireplace for any kind of damage or cracks. Then, inspect the flue liner within the crown to figure out whether there happens to be any kind of creosote buildup. Get the ashes removed with some kind of flat shovel. Get them disposed in metal bucket. These ashes could be used as fertilizer for the plants in the garden. They can be easily scattered on some kind of compost pile or even within the garden greenery.

Getting the fireplace cleaned by professional experts

It is mandatory to get the fireplace cleaned thoroughly by professional experts at least once in a year. They will also inspect the entire structure to figure out any cracks or other problems in the system. Dampers would be inspected properly to ensure that they are working properly. Special chemical cleanser with soft metal brush bristles would be used for cleaning the stain marks in the firebox.

Important points to consider

Idea of stuffing fiberglass insulations into the cracks to prevent air filtration is totally a misinterpretation. It is one of the biggest misconceptions while carrying out chimney brick repair in MD. Fiberglass is definitely a great insulator and would make for a perfect furnace filter but it would never ever prevent the air infiltration process. It may well make it slower but never would be able to completely stop the air filtration. Using closed cell foam or caulk could be the best option to stop air filtration completely. It is necessary to check out the crawl space to ensure that the insulation is perfectly intact and no form of critters is there for winter camp.