Your chimney plays a critical role in venting smoke and dangerous gases out of your home—but over time, exposure to weather, moisture, and heat can take its toll. Cracks, blockages, and damaged brickwork aren’t just cosmetic problems—they can lead to serious safety risks, including chimney fires or carbon monoxide exposure.
At Royal Extreme Clean, we specialize in chimney inspections, repairs, and cleanings that help protect your home and keep your fireplace operating safely. In this guide, we’ll show you how to recognize signs of chimney damage, what you can inspect safely as a homeowner, and how our team can help.
A damaged or deteriorating chimney can cause more than just smoke problems. It can:
Routine maintenance and early repairs help prevent expensive problems and ensure your chimney is safe to use year-round.
Here are the most common red flags homeowners should watch for:
If you see gaps between the bricks or crumbling mortar, your chimney may be vulnerable to collapse or water damage. This is often a sign of tuckpointing or masonry repair needs.
Bricks that are breaking apart or shedding layers are likely damaged from moisture or freeze-thaw cycles. These should be replaced or sealed to prevent further decay.
A chalky white substance on your chimney’s exterior is a sign that water is evaporating through the bricks and leaving salt deposits. This means moisture is getting in—and it shouldn’t be.
Rust can indicate excessive moisture in your chimney, which often comes from a missing or damaged chimney cap, or cracks in the crown. Rust is also a warning sign that parts of your chimney may be deteriorating inside.
The cement crown at the top of your chimney seals it off from rain and snow. Cracks in the crown allow water to seep in, leading to interior damage and mold growth.
If smoke is entering your home when using the fireplace, it could be due to a blockage, flue damage, or structural problems preventing proper airflow.
Water stains near the chimney or on ceilings around your fireplace are signs that your chimney flashing or masonry is allowing water intrusion—something that should be repaired immediately.
While we always recommend a professional inspection, there are a few things you can safely check on your own:
If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to call in the pros for a full inspection.
At Royal Extreme Clean, we don’t just clean chimneys—we repair and restore them to safe, functional condition. Our team is trained to identify hidden damage and fix it right the first time.
Our chimney repair services include:
We also offer professional chimney cleanings to remove creosote, soot, and blockages—recommended annually or after long periods of fireplace use.
We serve homeowners across Southeast Michigan, including areas such as Warren, Sterling Heights, Rochester, Clinton Township, Troy, Royal Oak, Grosse Pointe, and more with fast, reliable chimney care you can trust.
Small chimney issues can become big problems—fast. Whether you’ve noticed signs of damage or just haven’t had your chimney checked in years, Royal Extreme Clean is here to help.
Call us today or request a quote online
Let’s keep your home warm, safe, and ready for the seasons ahead.
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