Why Now Is The Best Time for Masonry Repairs
It’s the first day of spring, and as I walk around the waterfront on a cool, sunny afternoon in Pittsburgh, I notice several chimney tops bearing the scars of a brutal winter. As masonry chimneys from Homestead to Braddock and beyond thaw out from the deep freeze, leaks often first appear in spring. As we move toward a humid summer, these leaky chimneys will become breeding grounds for mold, mildew, and pests. To prevent spring rains and summer thunderstorms from causing further water damage, now is the best time for masonry work repairs.
Unveiling Masonry Damage
Winter’s freeze-thaw cycles are particularly brutal on masonry. Water seeps into tiny crevices, and pores expand as it freezes. Then, it contracts and thaws. This constant cycle over and over each winter eventually weakens the structural integrity of brick, stone, and mortar, leading to:
- Decaying Mortar Joints
- Spalling Brick/Stone
- Chimney Crown Damage
- Flue Liner Cracks
Prioritizing Spring Chimney Repairs
From missing chimney caps to foundation cracks, the signs of winter damage often become glaringly evident during this thaw. Spring offers a unique window of opportunity for masonry repairs for several key reasons:
Dryer Weather
The drier, warmer weather allows masonry materials to cure correctly, ensuring a long-lasting repair rather than a quick patch in winter.
Mild Temperatures
Unlike the extreme summer heat or the freezing temperatures of winter, spring’s mild climate makes working with mortar and other masonry materials like a walk in the park.
Damage Mitigation
Addressing masonry issues in spring prevents summer’s heavy rains and thunderstorms from causing further damage. Taking a proactive approach saves money from costlier repairs in the future and ensures the longevity of your masonry structure.
Scheduling Availability
Like most masonry contractors and chimney sweeps in Pittsburgh, we have more availability in the spring. You can get all of the repair work done before the rush of summer construction and fall chimney preparation.
What Happens If I Wait Until Summer?
Delaying masonry repairs can lead to more problems during the summer months. You may experience:
- Increased Water Damage: Summer’s torrential downpours will exacerbate existing cracks and weaknesses, leading to leaks, water infiltration, and potential structural damage.
- Mold and Mildew Growth: Damp chimneys provide the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can pose health risks and require costly remediation.
- Pest Infestations: Cracks and crevices in masonry offer entry points for insects and rodents, creating unwanted mice infestations.
- Further Deterioration: The combination of heat and humidity can accelerate the deterioration of cracked bricks and mortar, making repairs more extensive and expensive.
Expert Chimney Repairs Near Me
As Ben Franklin once said, “Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.” Advance Chimney Sweeps offers several financing options for your convenience, so you can get all the necessary repairs and pay over time.
By addressing masonry repairs now, homeowners can take advantage of convenient scheduling, prevent future problems, and prolong the use of their fireplaces. For expert masonry repairs, including flue relining, chimney crown rebuilding, tuckpointing, and smoke chamber parging in southwestern Pennsylvania, contact Advance Chimney Sweeps today. Our certified professionals serve communities throughout greater Pittsburgh, including Beaver Falls, Connellsville, Irwin, and Washington PA. Visit our website to schedule an appointment today.
