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Like much of Hennepin County, Bloomington experiences Minnesota's harsh weather, from icy, snowy winters to warm and humid summers. It’s this dramatic seasonal shift that places a heavy burden that can cause problems for chimneys. Ensuring an efficient and reliable chimney is paramount for homeowners who rely on fireplaces or stoves for supplemental heating or ambiance.
Common Chimney Problems in Bloomington
After enduring the winter's freeze-thaw cycles, spring is the ideal time to assess and address any chimney damage, safeguarding your home and chimney against potential fire hazards and ensuring optimal heating performance for the next season. Twin City’s climate contributes to several common chimney problems, including:
- Crumbling mortar joints
- Broken or missing chimney caps
- Rusting chase covers
- Spalling/missing bricks
- Cracked crown
- Water leaks/Musty odor
- Flue liner damage
Signs Your Chimney Needs Repair
Rapid temperature fluctuations and melting snow can exacerbate existing cracks and weaknesses. Also, our hot, humid summers can accelerate masonry deterioration and promote mold growth within the chimney. Recognizing the signs of chimney damage is crucial for preventative maintenance. Look for:
- Visible cracks in the chimney crown or brickwork.
- Loose or missing bricks or mortar.
- Water stains on the chimney or ceiling.
- Flaking or crumbling masonry.
- Damaged or rusted chimney cap.
- Draft issues or smoke backing up into the home.
Chimney Repairs in Hennepin County
Making chimney repairs promptly is essential. Twin City Fireplace's skilled masons, serving Bloomington and the greater Hennepin County area, specialize in a range of chimney repairs:
Chimney Relining
Relining the chimney enhances overall efficiency, providing a smooth surface that prevents dangerous flue gases from escaping into the home, where they can pose serious health risks to occupants.
Masonry Repair
Your chimney’s constant exposure to the elements may require repairing or replacing damaged bricks, stones, or concrete to address spalling, cracking, or other forms of deterioration. Repairing these issues may require replacing individual bricks or stones to maintain the masonry's aesthetic and structural stability.
Repointing/Tuckpointing
When masonry damage is minor and limited to the joints, we may recommend tuckpointing to restore the chimney's strength and appearance. This meticulous process involves a skilled mason carefully scooping out the decaying mortar and tucking in new, water-resistant mortar that matches the color of the surrounding brickwork for a seamless repair.
Firebox Rebuilding
The firebox is the most used section of the fireplace. When exposed to intense heat and corrosion from the combustion gases, the firebricks can crack and deteriorate, creating a fire hazard. Rebuilding it with firebrick and refractory mortar restores its integrity and efficiency.
Waterproofing
After completing chimney and masonry repairs, we recommend that Bloomington homeowners waterproof their chimneys to protect against rain, snow, and ice. We use a professional-grade water repellent specifically designed for masonry chimneys. Its vapor-permeable membrane ensures that trapped moisture can escape to prevent further damage.
Visit Our Hennepin County Showroom
For Bloomington residents seeking expert chimney advice and services, Twin City Fireplace's showroom is conveniently located just ten minutes north of Bloomington. We invite you to browse our hearth products and discuss your chimney needs with our trained professionals.
Bloomington Chimney Repair Services
With its exceptional chimney repair services, Twin City Fireplace is a trusted name in Bloomington and Hennepin County, MN. Whether your chimney has a missing cap, more holes than Swiss Cheese, or is leaning like the Tower of Pisa, our certified chimney professionals and talented masons can restore its strength and function with an aesthetically pleasing appearance, making it a valuable feature for your home. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
