Dangers of DIY Chimney Repairs

If you’re like most homeowners, you love doing DIY projects. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of fixing something yourself and saving some money in the process. But when it comes to chimney repair, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Chimneys are not something to mess around with – if they’re not repaired properly, they can be a serious fire hazard. In this blog, we’ll discuss the dangers of DIY chimney repairs and why you should always call a professional.

Common Chimney Problems

Leaky Flue

Chimneys are often overlooked when it comes to home repairs, but they’re very important. A faulty chimney can lead to all sorts of problems, including fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. The most common problem with chimneys is a leaky flue. A leaky flue can result from the flue being damaged by moisture entering the chimney structure. If left untouched, it may result in combustion gases escaping from the fireplace and into the home. This can cause extensive damage to your home, not to mention the safety hazards involved.

Creosote Buildup

One of the biggest dangers of a DIY chimney repair is the build-up of creosote. Creosote is a black, tarry substance that can form on the inside of your chimney. It’s highly flammable and can easily ignite, leading to a dangerous fire in your home. Homeowners do not have the tools or the know-how to remove this dangerous material.

Dangers of DIY Chimney Repair

Underlying Issues

One danger of a DIY chimney repair is that you may not be able to fix the underlying problem. Chimneys are complex structures and there’s a lot that can go wrong. If you don’t have experience repairing chimneys, you may end up making the problem worse.

It is not unusual for a homeowner to think they can see the problem and spend hours and money correcting it. Then only to discover the issue was something they were not trained to find.

Materials Matter

Another danger is that you may not be using the right materials. Chimneys need to be repaired with specific materials that can withstand high temperatures. If you use the wrong materials, you could end up with a dangerous fire hazard in your home.

Chimney fires are a real danger to your property and your family. A poorly repaired chimney can cause a devastating fire. Chimney fires are often caused by creosote build-up. Creosote is a flammable substance that builds up in the chimney over time. If the creosote catches on fire, it can quickly spread to the rest of your house. There are 25,000 chimney fires per year in the United States.

Incorrect Chimney Liner Installation

Another danger associated with a DIY chimney repair is the incorrect installation of the chimney liner. If the liner isn’t installed properly, it can create leaks that will allow deadly carbon monoxide gas to escape into your home. Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless gas that can quickly kill you and your family. There are over 450 deaths a year contributed to carbon monoxide poisoning from chimneys.

The Cost of Poor Repairs

We get dozens of calls each year from homeowners who thought they had corrected a problem themselves, only to discover that they created a much larger issue. A poorly repaired chimney can cost you far more than the original repair would have. In addition, when you go to sell your home and you need a chimney inspection, you may find that you have to make the same repair again anyways.

More importantly, a poorly repaired chimney can be a real fire hazard. Chimney fires cause millions of dollars in damage each year and lead to dozens of deaths. If you’re not confident in your ability to repair your chimney, it’s best to call in a professional. A qualified chimney specialist will have the experience and knowledge necessary to ensure that your chimney is properly repaired and safe to use. Don’t take chances with your safety – call a pro!

Remember:

– Chimney fires are responsible for millions of dollars in property damage each year

– Chimney fires lead to dozens of deaths each year

– Even if you are confident in your DIY abilities in general, we encourage you to call a professional when it comes to chimney repairs

– A qualified chimney specialist will have the experience and knowledge necessary to ensure that your chimney is properly repaired and safe to use

If you require a chimney repair, give us a call! We are experienced professionals who can ensure that your chimney is repaired properly and safely. Don’t take chances with your safety – call us today! – (410) 796-8450.

ChimneyTek provides chimney repair, masonry restoration, chimney sweep, and services in Anne Arundel, Howard, Prince George’s, and Baltimore counties. We have been voted the best Chimney Service in Baltimore and Severna Park and are widely considered the chimney repair company that offers the most comprehensive service. Your home and your safety are our priority.