Chimney repair

In Los Angeles, we use the fireplace less frequently than other parts of the country. But for those crisp autumn nights and festive holidays, a warm fireplace is the gathering place for friends and family.

Most people assume they can see damage in their chimney with the naked eye. Not true. Brick and masonry chimneys are constructed from concrete, mortar, steel, and iron. All of these materials will deteriorate due to temperature fluctuations and the change in seasons. A cracked chimney can cause serious problems to the structure of your fireplace. Moisture and all the different types of fuels we burn in our fireplaces can create pressure causing chimney and wall cracks on the inside and out. Actually, water causes more damage to chimneys than does fire or smoke.

There can also be problems with loose flashing — the metal sheeting that waterproofs the area where the roof and chimney meet. We will inspect your chimney and the surrounding area for structural problems, cracks, and flashing issues. Fixing chimney problems can be done within a few days and will save you major repairs later and possibly big headaches when the next trembler hits.