Need expert chimney construction services that combine quality workmanship with great service? Look here!
At GMT Home Services, we know your masonry chimney faces a lot of climate conditions every year. The chimney, a part of your fireplace and chimney system, is most exposed to moisture and extreme temperatures. As it sits above the roofline, it’s prone to freeze/thaw cycles and water gets trapped in the masonry around the chimney and walls and expands and causes cracks or spalling in the brick or stone. This deterioration starts slow but can accelerate if left unchecked, especially in winter.
Building a masonry chimney for a wood burning fireplace is easy if you know what it does. A well built masonry chimney construction also ensures your fireplace draws in enough oxygen and expels exhaust as hot air rises. You must prevent backdrafts which occur from the stack effect – when there’s a big temperature difference between cold outside air and warmer inside air and creates negative pressure and potential backdrafts. Getting the right chimney height is key to good draft and overall performance.
At GMT Home Services, we build masonry chimneys from durable non-combustible materials like brick, stone or concrete blocks. These chimneys are known for their heat reflective properties and long lasting performance often lasting decades with proper maintenance. They also add significant curb appeal to any home.
Our experienced chimney maintenance team can handle all aspects of chimney construction and repair from inspecting chimney flues and liners to repairing or replacing chimney caps and chimney crowns. Whether your system has a brick chimney, metal chimney or more than one flue, we follow local building codes and national fire protection agencies guidelines. Our masonry experts make sure all work is done to the manufacturer’s instructions, leaving your chimney and fireplace in great shape and your property clean and tidy.
When designing your chimney, its must to size the appliance it will vent. Follow local and national fire codes for diameter requirements. For interior chimneys, have 2 inches of clearance from combustible materials and 1 inch for exterior chimneys. The flue’s and interior chimney cross sectional area should be 1/10th of the fireplace opening area. A masonry chimney has the flue and chimney wall. The chimney wall should have at least 4 inches of solid masonry around drip edge of the flue liner. The chimney wall must be designed to support the chimney and fireplace’s weight, per NFPA 211 standards.
Our team at GMT Home Services builds your chimney from the ground up using bricks similar to the hearth bricks. We lay the bricks with mortar and make sure they are level. We build the flue, liner and outer chimney structure and install metal flashing sealed with waterproof silicone caulk where external wall of the chimney meets the wall.
A chimney liner is necessary to protect gas furnace and your home’s combustible parts from high temperatures. We use flue liners that meet local and national fire codes and are sized correctly for the appliance it will vent. We flash the chimney at key points where it meets the roof and beneath the chimney cap. A full chimney consists a properly installed damper is necessary for proper smoke ventilation and must meet fire codes.
Having clearance between your chimney and combustible materials is crucial for fire safety. We make sure there is enough air space and use a chimney liner to protect combustible material and parts of your home. We recommend annual inspections by a certified professional chimney sweep. For high use chimneys, bi-annual cleanings and inspections are recommended for longevity and safety.
Local Building Codes and Regulations: We meet all local building codes and regulations for chimney construction. Our team consults with local authorities to meet specific requirements of local building code and fire codes.
Efficiency and Durability: Masonry chimneys are more durable and heat reflective than metal chimneys. We consider these when designing and building your chimney.
Aesthetics and Curb Value: Masonry chimneys not only add to your home’s beauty with their classic look but also potentially increase its resale value. We consider style and curb appeal when designing and building your chimney.
Chimney draw issues can be caused by blockages, chimney condition or wrong fireplace dimensions. Blockages from debris, cobwebs or falling masonry can restrict airflow so make sure your chimney is swept by a professional. External factors like nearby fireplaces, buildings or trees can also affect the draw.
Yes if it hasn’t been used in a while, if you’ve had a chimney fire or if you notice draw or smoke issues. An inspection by a professional is necessary before using the chimney again.
Chimney liner lifespan varies: entry level stainless steel liners last about 10 years, high end stainless steel liners last about 20 years. Maintenance will extend their life.
Your chimney may be smoking because of a failed internal flue surface or joint. In brick chimneys, bricks and mortar can deteriorate over time and smoke. If your chimney has clay liners, a failed joint between brick flue housing the liner pieces can let smoke out.
With years of professional experience and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, we consistently uphold our legacy of excellence in every job we complete.
Ensure the safety and efficiency of your fireplace by scheduling your relative chimney service with GMT Home Services today we are committed to providing top-notch various chimney services to ensure your home is safe and your fireplace is running efficiently.
Our experienced technicians offer a comprehensive range of chimney services tailored to your specific needs. From thorough cleaning and inspections to repairs and maintenance, we’re committed to keeping your home safe and your fireplace functioning optimally.
Experience the benefits of a cleaner, healthier home by scheduling your required chimney service with us today.
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