5 Problems With A Leaning Chimney

A chimney should stand straight and true, firmly attached to the house with no gaps or signs of leaning. Over time, a chimney can begin to lean, either listing to one side or leaning backward and away from the home. This isn't something to be ignored, as prompt repair is necessary for both you and your home's safety.

1. Fire Hazards

If your fireplace is still actively used, then a leaning chimney poses a major danger. Leaning can lead to cracks in the chimney liner, which means embers that go up the chimney can spark a chimney fire that can escape into the walls of your home. Cracks and irregularities inside the chimney also are able to catch more soot and creosote, which can provide unwanted fuel for a chimney fire. 

2. Pest Invasions

Gaps in the mortar and seals around the chimney can provide an entrance for a variety of pests. Ants, spiders, and even termites can take advantage of a gap in a leaning chimney to come indoors seeking food and shelter. Larger pests may also take advantage of any gaps in a leaning chimney, which can lead to rats or mice invading the home. This is especially a problem on unused chimneys, as there will be no heat or fire to scare off pests.

3. Moisture Leaks

Leaning chimneys pull away from the house and from the foundation, which leaves openings for moisture to find its way in from snow melt, rain, or condensation. Leaks from a leaning chimney typically first make themselves known on the walls to either side of the chimney. The paint may peel or bubble, or the drywall may darken and become soft. 

4. Mold Growth

Even without obvious signs of water damage, moisture is probably making its way through the gaps caused by the lean. This means mold growth is likely occurring in the walls surrounding the fireplace. Sometimes you will actually see the speckled discoloring on the walls from mold growth. In other instances, the only hint may be a musty mildewed odor when near the fireplace. 

5. Structural Risks

There are major structural risks with a leaning chimney. As it pulls away from the house, it can damage the siding and roofing. If the footing beneath the chimney is also shifting, then it can damage the foundation where they butt up together. Further, cracked masonry and loose bricks are common, which can fall out and cause property damage or injury. 

Contact a chimney repair service to learn more.