There is a good chance you don’t think much about your chimney; it’s there, it does a job, and you leave it to do its thing. However, a chimney stack plays an important role in your property and leaving it to fall into disrepair could have far-reaching consequences for your home.
At London Property Services, LPS Direct’s chimney repair specialists in London are ready to help you if your chimney is faulty. Unsure of the problems it could be causing? Read on as we explain the importance of your chimney stack.
What is a chimney stack?
A chimney stack is the part of your chimney you can see from outside. The tall part that stands above the roof, often with smoke billowing, is your chimney stack. Made of brick or stone, it vents smoke and other gases that come from a fireplace, furnace or wood oven. They are generally stable, and with a clay or metal lining inside, are prevented from rapid deterioration that the smoke and other gases might otherwise cause.
Its purpose is to allow for the safe release of smoke and other combustion by-products, stopping them from accumulating within the property.
What are the different types of chimney stacks?
You’ll notice that from building to building, chimney stacks vary in shape, size, materials and the amount of smoke that they emit. Typically, there are two types of chimney stacks, but a third is becoming more popular.
Chimney stacks for domestic properties
The chimney stacks you find on homes are, for the most part, in place to remove smoke from the property that stems from fireplaces, stoves and heating systems.
Chimney stacks for industrial properties
Factories or commercial properties may often have much larger chimney stacks than you’d find on a domestic property. That’s because they have significantly more smoke and gases to remove due to manufacturing processes and the types of equipment being used.
Aesthetic chimney stacks
Some properties, both domestic and commercial, add chimney stacks purely for aesthetic purposes. They serve no functional purpose and are there to add some character to a building or to align it with a design or location theme.
Why is a chimney stack so important?
We mentioned earlier that you probably don’t notice your chimney much, but while it is up on your roof doing its job, it’s working hard to keep your home safe, and maybe even help increase its value.
Safe smoke removal
Perhaps the most important function of the chimney stack is the safe removal of smoke. When you burn wood, coal or other fuels, smoke is produced; within this smoke is carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is extremely dangerous; inhalation can lead to serious illness or even death. With a functional chimney stack, this smoke and the gases within it are safely dispersed.
Protection from elements
Many chimney stacks have a cap or cover. This stops leaves, snow, debris and even animals from entering the chimney. Having nothing like this in place means that almost anything could fall into your chimney and block it. Once blocked, there is nowhere for the gas to go other than back towards the home or workplace, where it could prove damaging.
Draft flow
A chimney stack creates a draft. This is where smoke is pulled up and out of the chimney. A higher chimney stack results in better airflow.
Energy efficiency
With a chimney stack in good condition, it can function properly. In doing so, it ensures the interior of the property retains a good air quality, which, in turn, enables heating systems to operate more efficiently.
Aesthetic appeal
Perhaps the least important function of a chimney stack, but one that could reap rewards. For some properties, a chimney stack adds a touch of character, an element of history or a splash of modernity. For those looking to buy a house, finding a property with a rustic or modern chimney stack might be enough to convince them to make an offer.
What are the common problems with a chimney stack?
Chimney stacks are quite robust, but small problems can soon develop into much larger issues that could cause damage to the property and health risks to those within it.
The most common issues found with chimney stacks include:
- Cracked brickwork
- Blockages from leaves, animals and other debris
- Water ingress
- Corrosion on metal chimney stacks
- Loose or missing caps.
Each problem can be addressed quickly and easily by trained professionals. The sooner it is rectified, the cheaper it will be to repair and the less likely it is that the problem could escalate to something much more serious.
How can I maintain my chimney stack?
To prevent your chimney stack from falling into disrepair, it is important to conduct regular maintenance. You can do much of it yourself, but you can also consult specialist companies like London Property Services if you are feeling unsure.
Regular inspections
You can give your chimney a brief inspection to look for signs of damage. However, some problems may not be noticeable to the untrained eye, so we recommend professional inspections for a detailed check of the chimney stack. This way, you avoid missing the small problems that could develop into something much larger.
Regular cleaning
This should be completed twice a year, but if your chimney is used frequently, more frequent cleaning is best. You can do this yourself and remove any soot or buildup of other materials. However, like with the inspections, it would be best to consider a professional chimney sweep for maximum results.
Adding a chimney cap
The addition of a chimney cap means that debris can’t find its way in and block the chimney system. This makes future maintenance much easier and allows the chimney to function more efficiently.
Sealing and repairs
If an inspection uncovers signs of damage, you should fix it as soon as possible. A quick response saves money and potentially lives. The level of repairs required can vary from sealing cracks to replacing damaged and missing sections. As a result, it is always advisable to seek professional help for the best results. If your chimney isn’t working properly or an inspection has flagged some issues, contact London Property Services. Our team covers all boroughs for all aspects of roofing repairs in London. We repair and maintain both domestic and commercial properties with emergency repairs and same-day coverage available. Get your free estimate today
