chimney maintenance Archives

Signs You Need Immediate Chimney Repair Services

Chimney damage doesn’t always announce itself with dramatic warning signs. In many cases, Houston and Beaumont homeowners notice subtle changes that point to serious structural issues requiring chimney repair. From water intrusion to crumbling masonry, catching these problems early can save you from costly emergencies and potential safety hazards. The good news is that most problems are easy to spot, as long as you know what to look for.

Why Is There Water or Moisture Inside My Fireplace?

Water inside your fireplace is one of the most common indicators that chimney repair is needed. Houston’s heavy rainfall and high humidity levels put chimneys under constant stress, and even small cracks or gaps in the structure can allow moisture to seep in. Left unaddressed, water intrusion can lead to extensive damage throughout the chimney system.

Common causes and signs of moisture-related chimney damage include:

A damaged or missing chimney cap, allowing rain to fall directly into the flue
Cracked or deteriorated chimney crown, which is the concrete seal at the top of the chimney
Failed flashing where the chimney meets the roofline, creating gaps for water entry
Rusted firebox components or damper, indicating prolonged moisture exposure
Damp or musty odors coming from the fireplace, even when it’s not in use
Water stains or discoloration on the walls or ceiling near the chimney
Deteriorated mortar joints that allow water to penetrate between bricks

If you notice any of these signs, scheduling a professional chimney inspection can help identify the source and prevent further structural damage.

What Does Crumbling or Spalling Brick on a Chimney Mean?

Spalling occurs when moisture enters the brick or mortar and causes the surface to flake, peel, or crumble away. In the Houston and Beaumont areas, the combination of heat, humidity, and driving rain accelerates this process. Crumbling brick is more than a cosmetic concern; it signals structural weakening that demands prompt chimney repair.

Here’s what to know about spalling and crumbling masonry:

Bricks that are flaking, chipping, or breaking apart on the chimney exterior
Pieces of brick or mortar collecting on your roof, in gutters, or around the base of the chimney
Visible gaps where mortar has eroded from between the bricks
Leaning or shifting sections of the chimney structure
Exposed interior layers of brick that appear soft or powdery
Damage that worsens noticeably after periods of heavy rain or temperature swings

Spalling that goes unrepaired can compromise the chimney’s structural integrity, potentially leading to partial collapse. A professional evaluation will determine whether tuckpointing, brick replacement, or more extensive fireplace repair is required.

Why Is Smoke Coming Into My House Instead of Going Up the Chimney?

Smoke backing up into your home is a clear signal that something in your chimney system isn’t functioning properly. Several factors can cause this, including a blocked or dirty flue, a damaged chimney liner, or an improperly sized flue for your fireplace. Creosote buildup, animal nests, and debris are among the most frequent obstructions that restrict airflow and push smoke indoors.

In the Houston area, high outdoor temperatures can also contribute to draft issues. When the air outside is warmer than the air inside the flue, it creates a reverse draft that forces smoke back into the living space. Structural damage to the flue liner or chimney crown can further disrupt proper ventilation.

If smoke is consistently entering your home, it’s important to stop using the fireplace and contact a certified chimney professional. Timely chimney repair can resolve the underlying cause and restore proper function to the system.

What Is the White Staining on My Chimney Bricks?

The white, chalky residue that appears on chimney bricks is called efflorescence. It forms when water moves through the masonry, dissolves naturally occurring salts within the brick or mortar, and deposits those salts on the surface as it evaporates. While efflorescence itself isn’t structurally damaging, it is a reliable indicator that excess moisture is moving through your chimney’s masonry.

For homeowners in the Houston and Beaumont regions, the high humidity and frequent rain make efflorescence a particularly common occurrence. Its presence often points to deeper issues such as failing mortar joints, a cracked chimney crown, or inadequate waterproofing.

Ignoring efflorescence can allow the underlying moisture problem to worsen over time, eventually leading to spalling brick, interior water damage, or compromised structural integrity. A professional chimney repair assessment can identify the moisture source, address any masonry damage, and recommend waterproofing solutions to protect the chimney long term.

How Do I Know If I Have a Chimney Fire?

Chimney fires can be dramatic and obvious or slow-burning and nearly undetectable. Both types cause serious damage to the flue liner and chimney structure, and either scenario calls for immediate chimney repair. Understanding the warning signs can help Houston and Beaumont homeowners respond quickly and minimize the extent of the damage.

Signs that a chimney fire has occurred or is currently happening include:

Loud cracking, popping, or rumbling sounds coming from the chimney
Dense, thick smoke or flames visible from the top of the chimney
An intense, hot smell throughout the home
Discolored or warped metal components in the firebox or on the damper
Cracked, collapsed, or honeycombed creosote inside the flue
Damage to the exterior masonry, including cracks that were not previously present
Evidence of heat damage on the roof or surrounding materials near the chimney

Even if a chimney fire appears to have gone out on its own, a thorough professional inspection is critical. Hidden damage to the flue liner can create conditions for a future house fire if left unrepaired.

Protect Your Home With Professional Chimney Repair

Whether you’ve spotted crumbling bricks, water in your firebox, or white staining on your masonry, these warning signs all point to the need for professional chimney repair. The team at Lords Chimney has over 20 years of experience serving homeowners across the Greater Houston and Beaumont areas. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and keep your chimney in top condition.

The Importance of Summer Repairs & Maintenance

Summertime repairs and maintenance are an important part of chimney care, but it’s something homeowners tend to neglect or put on the back burner. Why is this? Well, many associate chimney care with fall and winter since that’s when their fireplace is typically put to more frequent use.

Unfortunately, putting things off doesn’t always work out for the best.

What often happens is that once fall and the holiday season hit, everyone gets the idea to book chimney maintenance at the same time. This is why we, along with countless other chimney sweep companies, are at our busiest during the later months of the year – and getting that appointment scheduled at a time that’s both available and compatible with your calendar can be a challenge.

And we may come in for that annual inspection only to discover further repairs or maintenance is needed. We could detect high levels of creosote (which means a sweeping would be in order) or we might notice damaged parts or crumbling throughout the system.

Regardless, further appointments will need to be scheduled, putting you back right where you started – booking a slot in a season that is notoriously busy. And your fireplace shouldn’t be put to use until repairs are addressed.

Once cooler, rainier days come around in fall, we’re certain you’ll want to get those fires lit, so don’t put off the care you require any longer. Not to mention, those holiday gatherings come up quicker than you think! We’d hate to hear of get-togethers without that classic roaring fireplace going strong in the living room.

Call today to book an inspection with our team, so you’re all set and ready to go as soon as you’d like this fall. The CSIA-certified sweeps at Lords Chimney perform level 1, 2 and 3 inspections, ensuring you’re covered no matter what and can enter every season with the peace of mind you deserve.

Common Summertime Repairs

So, what are the more common summertime repairs we perform?

Tuckpointing: If your old mortar joints are crumbling, missing, or damaged, then tuckpointing services are in order. This is the process of removing that old mortar and replacing it with new, so your system looks great and is supported. And we’ll coordinate colors and material types to ensure your chimney looks polished and flawless at the end of it all.
Flashing Repair: The flashing is the piece of metal that covers the area where the roof and chimney meet up. This area is vulnerable to water leaks due to the roofing materials and chimney materials expanding and contracting at different rates. The flashing ensures none of that extra moisture can creep in, and it keeps both your home and your chimney a lot safer.
Crown Restoration: Your chimney crown is what sits on top of your chimney, and it helps to both keep water out of your flue and send water out and away from the sides of your chimney. Your crown is exposed to rain, sun, and curious critters, so it’s not uncommon for it to break down, especially if it wasn’t built from appropriate materials in the first place. We have the expertise needed to get yours in tip-top shape, so it stands strong for the long haul.
Chimney Cap Replacement: Your cap covers the flue opening to ensure water can’t simply go right down into your chimney and wreak havoc. Chimney caps also work to keep animals out, block downdrafts, stop outside debris from entering, and can even serve as spark arrestors. A strong, supportive cap is a must for any chimney, so be sure to invest in this affordable, worthwhile investment today Firebox Repairs/Rebuilds: The firebox is the area of your system that hosts the fire. It needs to be able to withstand the heat of your fireplace fires, and over time, even the most well-built firebox will face some wear and tear. Whether your unit is prefab or factory-built, this is one spot you don’t want compromised. Let us take a look soon.
Relining Work: There are three big jobs your liner completes – protecting your masonry from acidic fumes and heat, protecting your home from fires, and ensuring your system runs as efficiently as possible. We reline with both stainless steel liners and HeatShield®, ensuring you find the best possible fit for your unique needs.
And Don’t Forget a Sweeping!

It’s also not unusual for you to require a chimney sweeping in the summer to remove any harmful creosote that’s built up over the winter months. Creosote is highly flammable and it needs to be regularly removed or your chances of experiencing a chimney fire will increase significantly.

We can also remove animals and any nesting materials, so your system will be free of clogs and unwelcome critters. Then, we’ll cap it tightly to ensure nothing can work its way back in down the line.

Get Started by Reaching Out Today

Get on the right track for fall by investing in summer chimney maintenance now. Our sweeps are ready for your call! Dial 281-497-4000 to book your appointment.

The Easiest Way to Keep Swifts, Animals & Water Out of Your Chimney

Sick of birds setting up camp in your flue? Are squirrels and other critters scrambling throughout your chimney? Stressed about water-related masonry chimney with new crown masonry damages this fall? An easy way to resolve all of these worries is to invest in a high-quality, sturdy chimney cap and to have our team of professionals install it for you.

Not sure where your current cap stands or whether or not it’s actually being effective? We’re here to help. Learn more about chimney cap basics below, then reach out to our crew with any questions. We’re always eager to lend a hand and keep our customers safer, more knowledgeable, and completely prepared for it all.

Matching the Right Cap to the Right Chimney

Now, not all caps are created equal, and the type of cap you’ll need will depend on the type of fireplace you have. If things aren’t matched up appropriately, you’ll end up with a lot of issues, and you’ll invite all kinds of hazards and dangers into your home. Fortunately, we know all there is to know when it comes to fitting the best cap for your system, so you’ll be in good hands when you hire our crew for the job!

The biggest thing to remember is that, no matter what type of chimney or fireplace you’re using, a cap is always a must-have component. Without one in place, those birds and woodland creatures will have easy access to your home, and you’ll find yourself with excessive water damage and debris build-up, too.

If a bad storm blew your cap off or if yours seems damaged or misplaced, please don’t hesitate to call us in. We would be happy to look things over and see where you stand, then suggest further services that are best suited to your needs.

How Do I Know I Have the Wrong Cap?

If you have water coming into your home, or if you’re experiencing clogs, then that’s a clear indicator that your cap may need some adjustments. Other common problems we see are issues with the screening. Every chimney needs the right amount of screening, as well as the right type of screening, and without it, your chimney won’t be able to perform properly.

Usually these problems occur when chimney experts are not the ones hired to handle the task of keeping pests out of the chimney. Now, pest control professionals definitely know how to keep pests out of the home, but when it comes to chimneys they often get it wrong.

Essentially, if your screen is prone to experience build-up or if it lays flat, you’ll end up with issues. In both of these cases, nesting materials will block air, and you’ll have smoke backing into your home before you know it.

And while roofers offer some effective temporary fixes, most won’t do much for you long-term. We’ve even seen some take off the right cap and replace it with something less effective! Not good. In the end, hiring a CSIA certified pro is always the best route to take.

Is a Full-Coverage Cap Worth the Expense?

Now, as long as homeowners have some type of cap (whether that be single-flue, an umbrella type, or something else), we’re happy. That being said, you may find yourself replacing the less expensive, simpler models more often, and they aren’t always as effective as covering all of your bases (i.e. preventing animal entry, blocking out debris, stopping water damage, etc.).

The best route is always going to be investing in a full-coverage cap that keeps anything and everything that’s harmful away from your structure. It’s best for the design of the chimney, and it will save you money over time, both on repair/replacement costs and on damages that could occur throughout the system.

Should I Be Worried About Chimney Swifts?

Now, one of the animals we worry most about in terms of your chimney is the chimney swift. These small birds may seem like nothing to stress about (especially compared to raccoons, bats, and other bigger critters), but the truth is that removing them isn’t as simple as you might think.

You see, chimney swifts are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, so once they establish themselves in your chimney, we can’t legally remove them. They’ll have to stay put until they leave on their own, after which we can remove their nests, so you aren’t left with any fire hazards.

And don’t think you’re off the hook once they’re gone! Once they’re done migrating, they’ll want to come right back to the same place they left, so preventing their entry is essential. That’s where an effective cap comes into play. Let us ensure you’re set up right, so you don’t have to deal with the hassle.

Our Qualified Techs are Ready to Serve

You won’t find a team in the Houston area that is more knowledgeable than ours. We have the experience, training, and expertise to ensure all of your chimney-related needs are addressed before your holiday season really takes off. We’d be happy to help you out soon, so please reach out now!

Our Busy Season Is Almost Through, So Get Our Schedule Now!

With our busy season coming to a close, now is an ideal time to get your inspection, sweeping, or repair work scheduled. There are countless benefits to schedule chimney care this time of year, so get in touch Lords Chimney right away. We are always happy to help you out!

Scheduling At Your Convenience

If you feel that free time is something that is hard to come by in your family, then you are not alone. We understand that your to-do list is long and many struggle when it comes to scheduling regular professional chimney care. Unfortunately, putting this maintenance on the back burner can lead to some serious risks.

That’s why we always aim to come at a time that is convenient for you, which is why we suggest getting your inspection in now while our schedule is more clear. This availability means you will have the freedom to schedule your appointment at a time that works well for you. No need to rearrange your hectic schedule! Just let us know what works, and we can schedule it.

Addressing Your Repairs Fast

Another big advantage of scheduling your chimney maintenance now is that we will be able to tackle any repairs right away. During the fall, repairs may need to be put on hold until our scheduled clears up. Throughout fall and early winter we stay very busy, so addressing repairs can take more time than usual, putting off your burn season. If we spot damages we can repair them now so you will be able to light up a fire early! While others are struggling to get maintenance completed, you will be ready to enjoy nights by a fire.

Importance Of Annual Inspections

All in all, regular inspections are never something to put off, and now is an ideal time to get yours completed. Skipping this maintenance could land you in some trouble when the time comes to light a fire. Using a system that is damaged or clogged increase your chances of experiencing chimney fires, gas leaks, and house fires.

Along with this, a chimney that is well cared for will run more efficiently, guaranteeing you more heat and a more pleasant aesthetic, overall.

Guarantee yourself a safer and more comfortable home by getting the care you deserve right away. The team at Lords Chimney is experienced, CSIA certified, and eager to provide you with top-notch customer care. Schedule an appointment online today. We’ll be happy to help you out right away!

We Are A HomeShow Radio Pro!

The HomeShow Radio Show with Tom Tynan is a well-loved and -respected program that many enjoy on a regular basis. Thanks to Tom and his extensive knowledge on architecture and home construction, a number of homeowners throughout the Houston area look to him for great tips and advice every Saturday and Sunday morning. And with over two decades of experience building custom homes under his belt, you can rest easy taking his instructions to heart – Tom knows his stuff!

Well, one thing this show is known for is designating a select number of businesses as HomeShow Pros. As you can imagine, there are a large number of business throughout Houston and its surrounding areas, so to be given this honor is quite an accomplishment! Lords Chimney is proud to hold one of these titles, and Tom Tynan himself feels that we are a great team to trust with all of your chimney and fireplace needs.

Schedule An Inspection With Us Today

Now, with the holidays fast approaching, you want to work with a team that puts you at ease when it comes to chimney care. Based on our reputation, experience, and dedication to further education, we’re confident that we can handle anything you need done! Start off by scheduling an inspection with us. We’re CSIA trained and certified, so we can handle your annual maintenance, no problem.

An inspection is a surefire way to give you that peace of mind you’re hoping for as you dive into holiday festivities this season. There’s nothing like a crackling fire to light up some Christmas spirit, but you need to ensure your system is functioning safely before putting it to use! Otherwise, you could easily be faced with uncomfortable and dangerous scenarios, such as smoke back-up, chimney fires, gas leaks, and more.

We’ll do a thorough overview of your entire structure, and let you know if there are any issues that need our professional attention. We can offer advice and tips for moving forward, and before you know it, your system will be performing in tip-top shape.

Save yourself stress and hassle this Christmas by depending on us for it all!

We’re The Team For You!

From big to small, we can handle anything. Whether you have a minor leak, excessive creosote accumulation, or some major restoration work to get done, we’re the team trusted throughout Houston and all of its surrounding areas. Set your home up right for the holidays by putting your fireplace in our hands!

Time is running short and our schedule fills up fast, so if you’re hoping to get a nice fire going for all of your parties and get-togethers, then don’t hesitate to set up an appointment with us. There’s no time to lose! Give us a call today, and we’ll set you up right.

« Older Entries