Chimney Repair in Houston, TX
Leaning Chimney Repair Near You!
Noticing that your chimney has begun to lean can be a disorienting sight. If you are seeing your chimney separating from your home, the underlying cause is likely a foundation or structural problem.
While it might look scary, a leaning chimney isn’t that uncommon. If you notice that your chimney has started to lean, or if you have any other foundation repair questions, give Ram Jack Texas a call.
Our foundation professionals provide Houston leaning chimney repair for homes in the area. Call Ram Jack Texas - Houston at (713) 597-8970 or contact us online.
Which Way Is Your Chimney Leaning?
Leaning chimneys can be caused by several different factors. When looking at the way your chimney is leaning, the direction the chimney is leaning can tell you the type of foundation issue you are facing. Ram Jack Texas - Houston's team of experts are here to help.
LEANING CHIMNEY TOWARDS YOUR HOME
If it looks like the chimney is about to crash onto your roof, because it is leaning forward, you have a significant structural problem.
LEANING CHIMNEY AWAY FROM YOUR HOME
If it looks like the chimney is about to crash and fall in your yard, because it is pulling away from your house, you more than likely have a foundation problem.
There are several factors that could cause a chimney to start leaning away from a house. Here are some of the most common reasons:
- Shallow Footings
- Poor Drainage
- Poor soils that can’t handle a concentrated load
If any of these factors are the cause for your leaning chimney, helical piles can be installed to support the chimney in most cases. Using the piles, the chimney can be pushed back to as close to its normal position and raised at the same time. This will provide your home with a much better look.
How Bad is a Leaning Chimney?
A leaning chimney is a cause for concern as it can signify significant structural issues and potential hazards for your home and its occupants. A chimney that is visibly leaning is not a minor aesthetic problem; it indicates an underlying problem that requires immediate attention. Here are the reasons why a leaning chimney is considered bad:
- Structural Integrity: A leaning chimney suggests that the foundation or structure of the chimney may be compromised, potentially affecting the stability of the entire house.
- Risk of Collapse: The instability of a leaning chimney increases the risk of collapse, posing a severe threat to the safety of occupants and neighboring properties.
- Chimney Fire Hazard: A leaning chimney can create gaps and cracks, allowing hot embers to escape and ignite surrounding materials, leading to chimney fires that can spread to the rest of the house.
- Water Leakage: A leaning chimney often develops gaps and openings that allow water to seep into the walls and ceilings, causing water damage, mold growth, and deterioration of the chimney's masonry.
A leaning chimney is a serious problem that should not be ignored. The risks associated with structural instability, potential collapse, fire hazards, water damage, and health concerns make it imperative to address the issue promptly. Seeking professional assessment and repair is essential to ensure the safety and integrity of your home. Don't hesitate to take action to avoid more extensive and costly damage down the line.
How Common Are Leaning Chimneys in Houston?
Leaning chimneys can occur in any area, including Houston, but their prevalence can vary depending on factors such as soil composition, weather conditions, and the quality of construction. In Houston, where the soil is predominantly clayey, which is prone to expansion and contraction due to moisture changes, foundation issues can be relatively common. These soil conditions can contribute to foundation settlement problems, which may, in turn, affect chimneys and cause them to lean or tilt over time.
Why Should I Hire A Professional for Leaning Chimney Repair?
It is best to hire a professional Houston chimney repair contractor with experience in dealing with leaning chimneys. It is not recommended to attempt a leaning chimney repair as a DIY project. The structural stability of the chimney is essential, and improper repairs can worsen the problem or lead to further damage.
You can look for foundation issues on the inside and outside of your house. There are many things that can cause foundation damage. So while you are out checking up on your chimney, be sure and look around your home for damage.
If you have any questions about leaning chimney repair in Houston, TX, contact us or give us a call at (713) 597-8970!