For Chimney Repairs in Monona, Call Hansen & Sons Chimney & Fireplace – A Company You Can Count On
A seemingly small crack in your chimney’s masonry may seem insignificant at first glance, but it could be just the beginning of major problems. Instead of taking a wait-and-see approach that could cost you in the long run, call Hansen & Sons Chimney & Fireplace. For over 70 years, we’ve repaired and restored chimneys throughout Monona, Deerfield, Cottage Grove, Stoughton, McFarland, Sun Prairie, Madison, Cambridge, Oregon, Fitchburg, Verona, Waunakee, Middleton, Windsor, Maple Bluff, and neighboring towns.
Monona gets its name from the lake that serves as a beautiful backdrop to everyday life. With no shortage of stunning views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, Monona offers a peaceful alternative to the faster pace of living in Madison.
Living in Monona means you’ll always have the chance to take out your mountain bike, kayak, or canoe from storage. If you’re a nature lover, visit the Aldo Leopold Nature Center for interactive exhibits, hiking trails, and educational programs about the environment and ongoing conservation efforts. Similarly, the Monona Wetland Conservancy offers a glimpse at local bird species and wildlife.
After summer subsides, take part in one of our town’s most unique events, the Monona Fall Festival where you can join your neighbors and friends from nearby towns to celebrate the autumn season with live music, food, games, and other family-oriented activities.
One of the biggest benefits of living in a town like Monona is the close-knit community. Local businesses support one another and we all come together to help each other out. When you have an issue with your fireplace or heating appliance, you can reach out to us here at Hansen & Sons Chimney & Fireplace. Call us to book an appointment at 608-466-4185 or request an appointment online now.
Chimney Services We Provide to Residents in Monona & Beyond
Hansen & Sons is your one-stop shop for chimney issues big and small. We’re here to help you no matter what you need. For your convenience, we offer the following services:
How Do I Know if My Chimney Needs Repair?
A healthy chimney is crucial for a safe and enjoyable fireplace experience. These are indicators that trouble may be brewing just beneath the surface:
- Cracks and crumbling. Cracks, loose bricks, or crumbling mortar on the chimney’s exterior could signal structural problems that require an inspection by a qualified chimney professional.
- White discoloration. A white, powdery substance on the chimney’s exterior called efflorescence is a tell-tale sign of moisture problems within the chimney system.
- Other signs of water infiltration. Look for signs of water damage inside your home. Things like dampness around the fireplace, water stains on walls or ceilings, or rust on the damper or firebox could point to a leaky chimney.
- Too much smoke. If smoke spills back into your living area while your fireplace is in use, it could be because of a blockage or a drafting problem preventing your chimney from venting properly.
- Excessive creosote and soot buildup. A thick, tar-like creosote buildup inside the chimney is a fire hazard and needs to be cleaned and inspected for potential damage.
- Strange noises coming from the fireplace or chimney. Clicking, popping, or animal sounds coming from the chimney could indicate structural problems or unwanted guests. In either case, you should schedule an inspection right away to get it checked out.
What Is the Difference Between Chimney Repair and Chimney Rebuild?
Chimney repairs address specific issues that compromise your chimney’s functionality and safety without facing the prospect of taking the entire structure down. Common repairs include sealing cracks, replacing damaged bricks or mortar, fixing the crown or cap, and addressing minor water leaks. These are typically less expensive and less invasive, with an emphasis on getting your chimney back in working order without a major disruption to daily living.
However, if the damage is more severe, a chimney rebuild might be in order. This is a major undertaking that involves partially or completely tearing down and then reconstructing the chimney. Rebuilds are necessary in cases of severe cracking, leaning, or significant deterioration of the masonry. The process can involve rebuilding from the roofline up – or in extreme cases, from the ground itself.
While a rebuild is more costly and time-consuming, it ensures the structural integrity and long-term safety of your chimney, allowing you to continue to use your fireplace worry-free. Ultimately, the choice between repair and rebuild depends on the extent of the damage and the overall condition of your chimney. Repairs are preferable when possible, with rebuilds being the last resort for chimneys that are too damaged to be salvageable and safe to use again.
How Do I Prevent Chimney Repairs in the Future?
Using your fireplace shouldn’t come with the worry of future chimney repairs. By incorporating some simple practices into your routine, you can prevent minor issues from escalating into costly fixes. Here are a few tips for establishing a solid maintenance plan:
- Commit to annual chimney inspections. Schedule professional chimney inspections at least once a year. Our certified chimney sweeps can spot early signs of damage, creosote buildup, and other potential problems before they become chimney headaches.
- Don’t forget yearly chimney sweepings. Regularly have your chimney cleaned by a chimney professional to remove creosote and other debris. Creosote buildup is a fire hazard waiting to happen, and it can also damage the chimney lining over time.
- Invest in a quality chimney cap. If you don’t already have a chimney or yours is damaged, consider installing a new cap. This simple addition acts as a shield that keeps rain, snow, debris, and animals out of your chimney.
- Don’t wait to book repairs. Address any cracks, loose bricks, or mortar deterioration as soon as you become aware of them. Ignoring these small problems will only allow them time to get worse and more expensive to fix.
- Ask Hansen & Sons about our waterproofing services. Consider applying a waterproof sealant to the exterior of your chimney. This creates a protective – but breathable – barrier against water intrusion which can cause significant damage to the masonry and even lead to mold growth.
Can I DIY Chimney Repairs?
While tackling minor chimney repairs might seem tempting as a DIY project, it’s generally safer and more effective to call in a professional. Chimneys are complex systems that require expertise in masonry, structural integrity, and fire safety – all areas in which Hansen & Sons chimney professionals are knowledgeable. Our chimney technicians can identify underlying issues you might miss and are equipped to work at heights on chimneys that would otherwise pose a serious fall risk without proper safety measures.
Remember – many professional chimney services come backed by warranties so you don’t have to live in constant fear of a recurrence. While DIY repairs might seem like a cost-saver initially, the potential risks and likelihood of incomplete or improper fixes make hiring a professional the more reliable and safer choice for long-term chimney maintenance.
You Don’t Have To Put Off Chimney Repairs Any Longer
Although your chimney problem may seem relatively small at the moment, it won’t take long for it to snowball into a much bigger problem. Be proactive and stop the issue in its tracks. By bringing in the chimney experts from Hansen & Sons, you can save yourself significant time and money. Schedule an appointment with us now by calling 608-466-4185 or getting in touch with us online.
Testimonials
Hansen & Sons replaced our old gas fireplace with a beautiful new one. We considered converting to gas and through the whole process they were very transparent and open about the pros and cons of both. They were always on time and extremely professional in our home. They did a wonderful job and we definitely recommend them.
We were so impressed with the work that Hansen & Sons did on our chimney and fireplace. They were so informative and communicative during the whole process. I would HIGHLY recommend working with them. First rate service!
We love seeing our customers in Cottage Grove to ensure their fireplaces are safe to use every burn season. Are you located in our large service area?