From daily observations of the chimney and fireplace, people may ask where and how the problem first arose. Oftentimes, it looks like a chicken – egg situation, debating which problem comes first. In the end, it only means that something needs to be done.
Explaining to people the process of how the problem started and effects of lack of maintenance and repair can affect whether or not you will do the repair and cleaning. To avoid complicated debates and information regarding chimney cleaning and problems, you need to break down the possible causes of chimney damage. Find out if the problem is due to more open joints, abused rain cover, or a worn crown. To find out the reason for these minor and major problems, do or see things one at a time.
The first pathway to consider is the latent defects. These are defects that are in your chimney since the installation which are not readily seen. While there are prefabricated chimney pipe and fireplaces that are manufactured systemically and are built and designed with the right guide, still, poor workmanship and uses of materials brought your fireplace and chimney in a bad condition. Masonry chimneys usually have latent defects such as hearth extensions, inoperative dampers, firebox limitations, unparged smoke chambers, open mortar joints, liners, missing liners and many more.
Wear and tear is the second pathway. Chimneys may wear out in due time due to exposure to outdoor environment and temperature changes and changes in interior temperature. Moisture is the third pathway. This one is the most destructive of all pathways. It may look subtle but the effect is very tremendous overtime. The fourth pathway is sudden occurrence such as lightning, high temperature fluctuations and appliance malfunction. Chimney fires and other similar events are also part of this pathway.
Doing a breakdown of chimney problems may help you easily detect the cause of problem and can give you the right solution to the customers. These pathways can help you explain how the problem started and which causes a specific problem. It can also help you and the customer focus on what really is the cause of the damage.