Need help on this venting issue

Archive Public Archive
1

Originally Posted By: rharrington
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.


http://www.nachi.org/bbsystem/usrimages/D/DSCF0850.JPG ]

–
Rick A. Harrington


Central Ohio Home Inspections


www.patchhomeinspections.com

2

Originally Posted By: Peter Seiler
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.


The surface of the brick indicates moisture damage. Like you said, there was no cap on top of the poor chimney. Most likely you will be able to carve the chimney with a butter knife. If so, then the bricks have aged and are not structurally sound anymore. 108 year old bricks turn into dust when they are exposed to constant water flow. Whether a chimney cap save the house depends on further testing.


Sometimes building a new chimney (using modern construction techniques) is cheaper and safer than trying to repair old brick. Further shifting is to be expected, which could cause life-threatening leaks.


Peter Seiler


http://www.yourhomeinspections.com[/quote]

3

Originally Posted By: dandersen
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.


I would recommend running a metal flue pipe to the top and cap everything.

4

Originally Posted By: kmcmahon
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.


There are a couple of things to consider here.


This looks like a basement photo (photo of the chimney starting in the basement), so it’s doubtful it’s a moisture issue that made the crack. Looks more like a settlement crack at the penetration, which is minor.


Is there terracotta flue tile in the chimney? If it’s a double wall chimney then its a minor issue corrected by simply sealing the crack. If the metal fue extends out of the roof, then you’re probably ok.


If it’s a single wall chimney (brick only) then there is more than one issue and will need to be corrected by installing a metal flue up the chimney.

–
Wisconsin Home Inspection, ABC Home Inspection LLC


Search the directory for a Wisconsin Home Inspector
5

Originally Posted By: rharrington
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.


Thanks for all the scenarios.


The flue is terra cotta. Chimney is located directly in the center of the basement and continues surrounded by brick through the roof.

Recommended evaluation for repair by a licensed contractor.

Thanks

Rick

--
Rick A. Harrington
Central Ohio Home Inspections
www.patchhomeinspections.com