Chimney Repair Services Near Chattanooga, TN:
Work With Ashbusters Today
Over time, wear and tear, weather damage, and creosote buildup can lead to issues that compromise your fireplaces comfort and security. If you’re in the Chattanooga area, our expert offer fireplace and chimney repair services near you to ensure your system functions properly, preventing potential hazards like smoke backup, carbon monoxide leaks, and chimney fires. Give us a call or book online today.
We’re Your Local Chimney Repair Experts
At Ashbusters, we take pride in being a full-service chimney repair company in the Chattanooga area. No matter the issue, big or small, we have the expertise to restore your chimney and keep your fireplace running safely and efficiently.
Our repair services include:
- Chimney Leak Repair: If you’re dealing with water intrusion issues in your chimney, we’re equipped to seal cracks, replace damaged flashing, apply waterproofing solutions, and more.
- Chimney Relining: Trust us to install a new stainless steel chimney liner inside your flue to improve safety and efficiency, as well as prevent damage from heat and gases.
- HeatShield® Repair & Resurfacing: Depending on the state of your flue liner, we can apply a specialized ceramic coating to restore and reinforce, sealing gaps and cracks along the way.
- Chimney Masonry Repair: Crumbling mortar and brickwork? We can repair damaged bricks, replace mortar, and restore other masonry components to maintain the chimney’s structural integrity and appearance.
- Chimney Rebuilds: If your chimney is past repair, we can completely reconstruct it to ensure long-term safety and functionality.
What Should I Do if My Fireplace Is Smoky or Smelly?
If your fireplace is smoky or producing strong odors, it’s a sign that other underlying issues are present. That said, there are some troubleshooting things you can do before calling in an expert.
For a smoky fireplace:
- Check the damper. Make sure the damper is fully open before starting a fire. A closed or partially closed damper can block smoke from venting properly.
- Check your firewood. Burning wet or green wood produces excess smoke and creosote buildup. Stick to dry, well-seasoned hardwoods.
- Check your airflow. A lack of indoor airflow can cause smoke to back up into your home. Try slightly opening a window nearby to improve ventilation.
- Check your flue. A blocked or dirty chimney can restrict airflow. Buildup from creosote, debris, or even animal nests can prevent proper venting, in which case a professional chimney sweeping will be needed.
- Check for negative air pressure. Modern homes with tight insulation can create negative air pressure, pulling smoke back inside. Running an exhaust fan in the kitchen or bathroom can worsen the issue. Crack a window to solve the problem temporarily, then ask a professional how they can help balance airflow.
For a smelly fireplace:
- Book a cleaning. A buildup of creosote, soot, nesting materials, leaves, animals, or debris can create strong, unpleasant odors. An annual chimney cleaning can help eliminate this issue.
- Check for moisture issues. A damp chimney can produce musty or smoky odors. A missing or damaged chimney cap may allow rain and moisture inside. Installing or replacing a chimney cap can help.
- Use baking soda or charcoal. Placing an open box of baking soda or activated charcoal in the fireplace can help absorb lingering odors when the fireplace isn’t in use.
- Consider a chimney deodorizer. Special fireplace deodorizing products can help neutralize persistent odors.
If your fireplace continues to be smoky or smelly despite these fixes, it’s best to have a professional complete a thorough chimney inspection to find any hidden issues. There may be unseen structural damage, drafting problems, or severe creosote buildup that needs attention.
Need help? Schedule an inspection with our crew today to keep your fireplace safer and odor-free.
How Do I Know if My Chimney Needs a New Chimney Cap or Crown?
Both your chimney cap and your chimney crown play essential roles in protecting your chimney from water damage, debris, and animals. If either is damaged or missing, your chimney could be at risk. Here’s how to tell if you need a replacement or some repair work:
- You spot visible damage. If you look up and don’t see a cap on top of your chimney, or if you notice cracks or chunks of concrete missing from the chimney crown, you’ll want to have a professional come look things over.
- There are stains on your chimney. If you notice rust stains on your chimney or flue, it may be time to replace your cap, especially if it’s made of galvanized metal. In addition, moisture seeping through a cracked crown can cause discoloration and weaken your masonry.
- You’re noticing leaks and water damage. Caps and crowns help prevent rain and snow from entering your chimney. If you’re experiencing moisture issues and deterioration, one of the two may need some help.
- Animal activity is becoming an issue. Birds, squirrels, or raccoons inside your chimney suggest that your cap is either damaged or non-existent. A new cap with a proper mesh screen can keep wildlife out.
- There’s excessive debris in your firebox. Leaves, twigs, or other debris falling into your fireplace indicate that your chimney cap and crown aren’t doing their jobs.
Chimney Repair Near Me: We’re Chattanooga’s Trusted Chimney Company
When it comes to chimney and fireplace repair services near Chattanooga, Ashbusters is the company to call on. Our team of experienced professionals specializes in everything from masonry repairs and tuckpointing to chimney relining and waterproofing. Whether your chimney has suffered from weather damage, creosote buildup, or general wear and tear, we provide reliable solutions to restore its safety and efficiency.
Call or reach out online now.