Chimney repair is a complex field because there are many parts to a chimney. Here at Grosse Pointe Chimney Repair, we focus on the external components, such as the brick, mortar, and chimney cap. This guide covers the basic parts of a chimney to help you understand how it works.
Exterior Parts of a Chimney
The exterior parts of a chimney protect the inner workings. They act as a shield against rain, wind, snow, sleet, and UV rays. They also provide stability to ensure the chimney continues working for years to come. Here is an overview of the outside elements of a chimney:
- Masonry – Brick and mortar around the outside of the flue
- Flashing – Metal sheet between the masonry the roofline
- Chimney Crown – Limestone or concrete at the very top of the chimney
- Cap – The topper on the chimney that keeps water, debris, and animals out
The crown and masonry on the chimney are often the first to show signs of wear. They experience the brunt of the force from Mother Nature, even more so than your house siding. Monitor for issues on the outside and schedule a chimney inspection at the first sign of damage. Grosse Pointe Chimney Repair offers masonry chimney repair and chimney crown repair in Michigan.
Interior Parts of a Chimney
The interior parts of a chimney direct smoke and embers out of the house. These components are responsible for safely channeling smoke upward. They include:
- Chimney Flue – The interior tunnel that smoke flows through
- Flue Liner – Clay tiles that provide a barrier between the masonry and the flue
- Chimney Damper – The flap inside that seals the chimney off when not in use
- Smoke Chamber – The area between the damper and the flue
Your chimney interior should be cleaned once a year to remove buildup. The chimney sweep can inspect your chimney to check for early signs of wear. This is extremely important for fireplace safety.
Fireplace and Fire Box
The fireplace is the face of the chimney inside the home. This includes the hearth, mantle, fireplace façade, and other features.
The firebox is where you put the wood for your fireplace. If you have a gas fireplace, this would be the area where the gas ignites. The smoke from the firebox floats up into the interior components listed above.
If you notice issues on any part of your chimney, seek professional help. These matters will not resolve themselves on their own. Contact Grosse Pointe Chimney Repair at (313) 263-1660 if you need masonry chimney repair.
