Masonry Repairs

After a long winter, there can be unexpected masonry damage that you hadn’t planned for. This is why it’s important to remember your routine maintenance. Both the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)  and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends regular chimney sweeps and annual chimney inspections for the safest and most efficient use of your chimney. Even a small amount of winter damage can cause significant damage over a spring and summer. Enough damage to put your family at risk if you light a fire this fall. Having your chimney system inspected can make you aware of issues before they turn to hazards!

Common Masonry Damage

• Spalling.
  When water penetrates masonry it is subject to a freeze/thaw cycle. This is where water seeps in and freezes, expanding and cracking the masonry further. Afterwards, it thaws and repeats the process. This cycle causes mortar to break apart, fall out of the cracks, and loosen bricks. This cracking, flaking, and falling-away brick and mortar is called spalling. It is repaired through a meticulous system of replacement called tuckpointing. This is where the mason mixes mortar to match the existing mortar in strength, consistency, and color. If mixed incorrectly it can worsen your chimney’s integrity!
• Chimney Leaks.
  Heavy precipitation can cause leaks from a chimney cap, crown, flashing, and directly through spalling masonry. Not only should the cause of the leak be repaired, but also the resulting damage. Staining upon the masonry is easily repaired, but water damage can cause extensive structural damage. RMR specializes in chimney and firebox rebuilding and repair on top of routine masonry care.

Hiring a Professional

When you hire Robinson Maintenance Repair, Inc. for your inspection now, your masonry repairs can be completed during the off season! Add this maintenance to your spring cleaning. Now you can spend the summer enjoying the warm weather and barbecue holidays, instead of worrying about your warmth this winter. RMR technicians inspect, repair, and provide preventative maintenance that only a professional can offer. Additionally, masonry restoration is a common job our technicians complete following structural damage caused from natural disasters, for instance.

Protect Your Masonry from Water

Finally, as CSIA members, we strive at RMR to place customer safety and comfort above all else, which is why we offer preventative services like masonry waterproofing sealant. We apply a Saver Systems sealant, a water-based sealant that repels water molecules while remaining vapor-permeable. RMR also uses a similar product, Crown Coat, that similarly seals the crown against water.

By hiring Robinson Maintenance Repair, Inc. you benefit from over eight years of masonry repairs in the Chicagoland area. We are familiar with the climate, municipal codes, and other industry professionals in the area. Call RMR about our complete chimney services today, and we can be your one-stop-shop for all of your chimney needs for the life of your chimney!