Chimneys

Chimney-stacks can deteriorate through general erosion of the mortar jointing and care should be made to ensure that pointing is not porous, flashings are watertight and in lead, chimney pots are secure in sound cement and all closed flues are adequately capped and vented.

Leaning chimney stacks are very common in older properties and are caused by the sulphates in the exhaust emissions of solid fuel fires. The sulphates condense on the exposed side of the chimney-stack and cause the mortar jointing to expand. The net result is that the chimney through time will start to lean.

Chimneys and their flashings account for a large percentage of the leakage and rot that occurs to the main roofs. Correct routine maintenance can prevent more expensive maintenance from being required in the future.

Flues

The flue transports the combustion fumes from an open or gas fire to the chimney or other vent where the fumes are vented.

Through time the pointing within the flues can deteriorate; in the worst cases, the fumes may re-enter the dwelling. If there is any doubt about the condition of the flue, arrangements should be made for the flue to be tested.

In most cases your gas company will do a free test of the flue’s efficiency. If the flue is defective the repair is often the installation of a flue liner. The cost of installing a lining can often be fairly modest.

It is important that gas appliances and their flues are tested regularly.

Open fires that are used regularly should have their flue swept and cleaned every two to three years. Failure to keep a flue clear could allow fumes to enter the house or could result in a chimney fire.

DO NOT TAKE ANY CHANCES WITH GAS AND CARBON MONOXIDE. IF IN DOUBT OBTAIN SPECIALIST TESTS. CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING IS POTENTIALLY FATAL.

Professional bodies

CORGI consumer website

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