Is Your Fitchburg Chimney Leaking? That’s No Problem for the Experts at Hansen & Sons Chimney & Fireplace
Water is your chimney’s number one enemy. If you have a chimney leak that isn’t addressed promptly, it can put your chimney at risk for significant structural damage. For more than seven decades, Hansen & Sons Chimney & Fireplace has helped residents in Fitchburg, Madison, Verona, Middleton, Oregon, McFarland, Monona, Stoughton, Waunakee, Cottage Grove, Sun Prairie, and neighboring towns deal with chimney leaks with exceptional results. Call us to schedule an appointment if you see signs of a leaky chimney.
Compared to other places in the area, Fitchburg is relatively new to the block. Formally incorporated in 1983, the up-and-coming city has quickly established itself as a community that is known for safety, comfort, and convenience. Just a short drive from the bright lights of Madison, Fitchburg has become a go-to for quiet day trips for locals and visitors alike.
Fitchburg has tons of parks for residents and their four-legged family members. Whether you’re looking to shoot hoops at McKee Farms Park or you want to settle in for a picnic with friends at McGaw Park, there’s a spot in town for you to escape to when you want to enjoy the outdoors.
When rainy weather keeps you stuck inside or even worse – reveals signs of a chimney leak – you can count on the team at Hansen & Sons Chimney & Fireplace to get your chimney system back up and running. Reach out to us as soon as you recognize signs of a leaky chimney by calling 608-466-4185 or getting in touch with us online.
From Chimney Leaks To Routine Maintenance – Hansen & Sons Is Here for Fitchburg Homeowners
Keep your fireplace safe and sound with Hansen & Sons! We’re your one-stop shop for all things chimney – from routine inspections to complete rebuilds for chimneys that are a bit too far gone for typical repairs. Proudly serving Fitchburg homeowners since its beginnings, we offer a comprehensive range of services to meet your every need:
Why Is My Chimney Leaking?
Have you noticed changes near and around your fireplace like water stains? It could be a sign that your chimney is leaking. Here are some common reasons why water might be seeping into your home through the chimney:
- Missing or damaged chimney cap. This metal cover sits on top of the chimney flue, keeping out rain, animals, and debris. If it’s broken or missing, water has a clear path into the chimney system.
- Cracked chimney crown. The concrete slab at the top of the chimney is designed to deflect water away from the bricks. Cracks in the crown can allow water to seep in.
- Deteriorating mortar joints. Over time, the mortar between the chimney bricks can crack and crumble, creating gaps that water can seep through.
- Flashing issues. Flashing is a thin metal sheet that seals the joint where the chimney meets the roof. Damaged or improperly installed flashing can allow water to leak into the roof structure and eventually make its way into the chimney system.
- Relentless weather. Persistent exposure to rain, snow, and ice can wear down the chimney’s defenses over time, making it more vulnerable to leaks.
How Can I Tell if My Chimney Is Leaking?
Chimney leaks can be tricky things. While some leaks are blatantly obvious, many develop subtly and require a bit of detective work to uncover. A good first step is to reach out to a professional chimney company like Hansen & Sons for a chimney inspection. We’ll dispatch one of our certified chimney professionals to look for early signs of a hidden leak like water stains or discoloration on walls and ceilings near the fireplace.
Your sense of smell and hearing can also be helpful tools. A musty odor – often associated with mold or mildew growth – can signal lingering dampness. If you hear dripping water, especially after a rainstorm, it’s another reason to have your chimney inspected.
Unfortunately, chimney leaks often go unnoticed until a professional inspection is conducted. There are areas – particularly on the roof – that are difficult to inspect without proper equipment and training. During a chimney inspection, a technician can identify issues like damaged mortar joints, problems with the flashing, a missing cap, and/or corroded metal components.
How Often Do I Need To Have My Chimney Inspected for Leaks?
A chimney inspection is like a yearly checkup for your home’s heating system. These regular appointments are vital for catching small problems early on before they snowball into major issues. We recommend following the advice of leading chimney safety organizations like the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). For most homeowners who use their fireplace occasionally or moderately, an annual inspection is sufficient. However, if you use your fireplace heavily, reside in a region with harsh weather conditions, or have an older chimney with a history of problems, then more frequent inspections may be necessary.
To get ahead of the next burning season, consider scheduling your annual chimney maintenance – including inspections and cleanings – during the spring and summer months. Consistent maintenance and prompt repairs will not only extend the lifespan of your chimney but also protect your home from costly water damage in the future.
I Think I Have a Chimney Leak, What Should I Do?
A chimney leak can quickly turn into a major problem. If you suspect one, don’t hesitate to take action. Early intervention can significantly reduce the repair work needed and keep costs down.
Instead of attempting a DIY fix, contact Hansen & Sons to schedule a professional chimney inspection. Our certified technicians have the expertise to accurately diagnose the leak’s source. We don’t just address the immediate issue; we also identify potential weaknesses that could lead to future leaks. With our comprehensive inspection, you can rest assured your chimney will be safe and functional for years to come.
Don’t Let a Leaky Chimney Put a Damper on Your Plans
Chimney leaks can strike when they’re least expected, but they don’t have to bring your fireside plans to a screeching halt. If you find yourself dealing with a potential leak, it’s important to address it as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your chimney and home. A certified chimney sweep from Hansen & Sons can inspect your chimney to identify the source of the leak and recommend the best course of action for repair. Call us to schedule an appointment at 608-466-4185 or reach out to 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!
There are a lot of benefits to living in McFarland. We think one of them is being part of our service region where you can count on our professional chimney services throughout every year.