Common Chimney Problems in Oceanside CA
Oceanside homeowners often call us to look into confusing problems with their chimneys. Sometimes, they call us for problems that are both confusing and potentially dangerous. In either case, Chimney Sweeps Inc. of Oceanside, CA, is equipped to resolve the problems. Here are some common (and not-so-common) problems we solve for our customers.
Leaky Chimney
If you notice signs of a leaky chimney, the problem needs to be addressed quickly. We encourage all Oceanside chimney users to watch for:
- Water in the firebox
- White stains on the exterior masonry (indicates that water is penetrating the bricks)
- Damp sections on walls and the ceiling near the fireplace
- Musty smells coming from the firebox, attic or crawl spaces
Smelly Chimney
A smelly chimney can indicate a leak somewhere in the system. It can also be caused by:
- Creosote and soot buildup
- Mold growth
- Falling tree debris
- Rotting nest materials of small animals
- Animals that have died in the chimney
A proper chimney cleaning is usually the first step. Depending on the cause of the smell, a chimney inspection may be required.
Smoky Chimney
Smoke and dangerous carbon monoxide backing up into your Oceanside home means that something is preventing the fireplace from drafting, making the chimney smoky.
Causes could include:
- A house that’s too airtight
- Negative air pressure from a running exhaust fan
- Debris filling up the flue
- Excess creosote and soot in the flue
- A flue that’s too small to draft your fireplace
- Excess smoke produced by damp, unseasoned wood
- A closed fireplace damper
We’ll find out what’s causing your chimney to be smoky and fix it ourselves or advise you on how to prevent it.
Animal Problems
If you operate your Oceanside chimney without a secure chimney cap or cover, small animals can infiltrate the flue. Birds, rodents, snakes, squirrels and other wildlife love to get into chimneys for shelter and to birth their young.
The nests that some of these animals build can obstruct the flue and create drafting problems. Animals that die in the chimney can also obstruct the flue and send horrible smells into your home.
A thorough chimney sweeping usually solves this problem. A chimney cap keeps it from happening in the future.
Rusty Chimney
A water leak can lead to rust on any metal part or area within your chimney and fireplace system. If we find rust issues with the fireplace damper, chimney flashing, chimney cap or other components, we’ll usually recommend replacement and, if applicable, methods to keep the problem from recurring.
Brick and mortar deterioration
A deteriorating chimney is ugly to look at and can be dangerous to live around. Masonry issues can be caused by numerous things, including:
- Old age
- Poor-quality materials or workmanship used in the chimney’s construction
- Earthquakes
- Small leaks that have progressed
- Lightning strikes
We’ll inspect your chimney and determine the cause of the problem. We can then make the necessary masonry repairs.
Solutions for Your Oceanside Chimney
If you live in Oceanside, CA, or any other North County city, Chimney Sweeps Inc. is here to help you solve any chimney problems you may be having. We’ve served Oceanside homeowners since 1985 with the very best in licensed chimney cleaning, inspections and repair work. We know how to diagnose problems, and we know how to fix them.
Speak with a chimney and fireplace expert today at (619) 593-4020 or request an appointment online.