Nashville Fireplace & Chimney,LLC

The typical Masonry chimney is constructed of a variety of materials. These materials may include a combination of mortar, bricks, concrete, concrete block, stone, flue tiles, steel and cast-iron. The majority of these materials are directly affected by contact with water, water penetration, and also the freeze/thaw cycle of winter.

A chimney that is suffering from deterioration from constant exposure to the weather can be a potential safety hazard. 

All masonry components of the chimney will suffer deterioration as a direct result of coming into contact with water. To add to that deterioration, the natural freeze/thaw cycle of winter allows moisture to penetrate these masonry materials and potentially cause extensive damage because when it freezes it also expands. Then rising temperatures cause the frozen material to thaw back out. Water penetration and exposure to the weather can also cause metal materials of the chimney to rust. It is also noteworthy to mention that while most stone is not affected, the mortar that holds the stone in place is still at risk from water and other weather related elements. This means that the area should also be protected against water and water penetration.

Water penetration can cause damage to the interior as well as the exterior. Water penetration can lead to damage to the structure, to your damper, to the flue, masonry, and in extreme cases water can penetrate into your crawlspace or attic which leads to water damage to the roof, ceilings, and other drywall material. On occasion, water penetration can seep into the flue mixing with creosote causing a foul odor to come from your fireplace. This mixture may also cause unwanted stains in your home. Nashville Fireplace  & Chimney offers solutions for masonry defects and chimney leaks. Our chimney sweep tecnicians can make the necessary repairs to stop chimney leaks in their tracks and recommend products designed specifically for chimney odors.

Masonry services available at NFC

• New construction
• Chimney leak repair & preservation
• Demolition & chimney rebuilds
• Tuck pointing
• Custom mantels and hearths
• Cultured stone, rock and tile application for the interior and exterior portions of the chimney
• Patios, porches & pool area repair and new construction
• Mailboxes & outdoor firepits
• Pressure washing & waterproofing for masonry
• Retaining walls

To see a few examples of our chimney sweep technician's masonry work, please visit our Gallery.

Waterproofing  & Pressure Washing

Pressure washing is recommended for removal of mold growth and moss from the exterior portion of the chimney that naturally occurs over time prior to any chimney repair.

After Masonry repairs, we recommend further protecting your chimney investment with a Professional Waterproofing Application. 

Chimney Saver is a product specifically designed for chimneys to protect  the masonry aspects of the structure from water penetration.There are approximately 40 million masonry chimneys in North America and the most common problem with these structures is water penetration. ChimneySaver is a water repellant, not a sealer. ChimneySaver penetrates deep enough to protect masonry from destructive water penetration while maintaining the structure's vapor permeability. Essentially, this product repells the water and allows the masonry to naturally "breathe".

Nashville Fireplace & Chimney repairs leaky chimneys! Use the "Contact us" page to schedule your chimney repair estimate.

The Chimney's Crown Wash

The chimney crown typically resembles a small concrete slab located at the top of the chimney itself. The chimney crown like the chimney cap, also has several functions. The chimney crown covers and acts as a seal to the top of the chimney from the flue liner to the chimney edge. It also provides a downward slope that will direct water from the flue to the edge of the crown. By redirecting the water runoff from the crown and away from the chimney, the chimney crown essentially helps prevent erosion of the brick-and-mortar. In some cases some chimney crowns are built from common mortar mix which is not designed for this and will not be able to withstand the elements of weather conditions causing it to crack, chip or deteriorate.

A cracked or damaged chimney crown can allow water to penetrate the chimney and should not be neglected. This will need to be repaired immediately to prevent deterioration and damage to the structure as well as other portions of your home.The good news is that the chimney industry has created products specifically designed for the chimney and crown wash. In severe cases, the chimney crown will  need to be re-poured completely. However in some cases, the chimney sweep technician may recommend using a product designed specifically for the chimneys, to resurface and seal the crown wash. For more information or a brochure about this product, please send an inquiry by using the "Contact Us" page.