While many chimney problems are hidden inside the flue, the exterior of your chimney can also show signs of damage. Not only are cracked and loose bricks signals of water damage, but discoloration on your chimney can also alert you to problems. These stains can vary in color as different problems show up as different colors. Ashbusters would like to tell you more about the varying types of discoloration on your chimney and what they mean.
WHITE STAINS
If you see white powdery or crystalline stains on your chimney, you are most likely seeing efflorescence stains, according to InspectAPedia. Efflorescence consists of mineral salts that are left on the bricks after water evaporates. While these stains could simply be cosmetic from exposure to rain, they can also signal water leaks. If you notice white stains on your chimney, Ashbusters can inspect your chimney for water leaks and repair them to prevent any significant damage.
BLACK AND BROWN STAINS
This type of discoloration can signify a very hazardous problem with your chimney. Black and brown stains typically are from creosote washing down your chimney. Creosote can wash down from the top, or it can seep through cracks in the bricks and mortar of your chimney. No matter how the creosote is running out of your chimney, your chimney needs a professional sweeping to remove the creosote deposits to reduce your risk of a chimney fire as this natural compound is extremely flammable. If the bricks and mortar of your chimney are cracked, Ashbusters has experienced chimney masons who can repair this damage to make your chimney safe to use.
RED STAINS
When you have red discoloration on your chimney, it is a clear sign of rusting damage from your chimney cap or chase cover. When these metal components of your chimney suffer from rust corrosion, they can easily crack and break apart. Since your chimney cap or your chase cover protect your chimney from water penetration, any damage from rusting can keep these components from doing their jobs. Ashbusters can inspect these important chimney parts to see if they can be repaired or need to be replaced.
If you have discoloration stains on your chimney, Ashbusters is here to help. Contact us to schedule an appointment for a chimney inspection today.
Also remember that Ashbusters Chimney Service caters to the surrounding areas of Franklin, Brentwood, and Hendersonville, Tennessee.