How to Protect Your Chimney From Mold
When people think of mold buildup in the home, they think of dank, cobweb filled basements. However, few consider their chimney a breeding ground for this fungal intruder. In this post, we look at what causes chimney mold, its harmful effects, and how to protect yourself.
What Causes Chimney Mold?
Before getting into the cause, let’s look briefly at what mold is. According to the EPA, Molds are a natural part of the environment and can be found almost anywhere that moisture and oxygen are present. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth often occurs.Various factors combine, creating a favorable environment for mold to grow in and on your chimney.
Moisture
As mentioned, moisture is a critical ingredient in the onset of mold growth. Because your chimney is exposed to the weather 24/7, it’s subjected to rain, snow, and ice. Water can seep into cracks in the bricks and mortar joints, or damaged flashing. The condensation caused by your fireplace or heating appliance supplies the other ingredient (humidity) to give the mold the moist environment it requires.
Poor Ventilation
A poorly ventilated chimney traps moisture inside, leading to mold. Poor ventilation happens if you have an improperly sized flue or if it’s partially blocked. Additionally, keeping your damper closed for too long can trap moisture in the flue.
Poor Maintenance
Infrequent chimney cleaning and inspection can cause creosote buildup, debris, and other obstructions, all of which trap moisture and lead to a mold infestation. Experts recommend annual chimney cleaning and inspection by a certified professional to keep it clean and reduce the chance of problems like mold and other damage from getting out of hand.
Organic Material
Besides moisture, mold thrives on organic material, like leaves, twigs, and animal nests. If you don’t have a chimney cap, it’s easy for this material to fall into your chimney and become trapped, which creates the perfect home for mold to breed.
Fluctuating Temperature
Finally, rapid temperature fluctuations can cause condensation in the chimney, giving the mold the perfect conditions to grow. This frequently happens during seasonal transitions when you use your heating appliance less often.
What Are the Effects of Mold In Your Chimney?
It’s estimated that nearly 70% of American homes have mold, and it’s one of the biggest nightmares for homeowners because of the adverse effects that come from it.
Health Risks
Mold releases spores and mycotoxins into the air, which can cause respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems, especially for people with asthma or a weakened immune system. Mold exposure causes symptoms like coughing, wheezing, sneezing, congestion, and skin and eye irritation.
Structural Damage
One aspect of mold infestations that many people aren’t aware of is the structural damage it can cause. Mold gradually deteriorates masonry, mortar, and the other chimney components, which can lead to cracks and potential collapse.
Odors
Does your chimney stink during spring and summer after heavy rain? Most chimney odors stem from mold infestation and enter your home from downdrafts. The warm, moist air increases mold growth and the resulting odor.
How to Protect Your Chimney From Mold
Now that you know how dangerous mold can be, here are a few tips to prevent it.
Hire a Professional Chimney Service
The best way to prevent mold and other chimney and fireplace issues is by hiring a certified chimney professional for annual or semi-annual cleaning and inspection. Professional cleaning removes creosote and other obstructions that can lead to mold growth or cause a fire hazard.
Keep Moisture Out
Since moisture is the number one factor in mold growth, it’s imperative that you keep it out of your chimney as much as possible. Ensure that your chimney is water tight by repairing cracks and damaged mortar as soon as possible. Moreover, install a chimney cap to prevent water from getting into the flue. Finally, inspect the flashing for damage and repair any gaps.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Keep your flue free from obstructions, and ensure it’s properly sized for your fireplace, stove, or heating appliance. Keep the damper open when using the chimney to maintain healthy airflow, and if you have drafting issues, consider installing a fan to combat them.
Keep Heating Appliances Well Maintained
Keeping your fireplace or heating appliance in good condition reduces the chance of condensation and ensures efficient combustion.
If you’re not comfortable or equipped to do this, call a chimney professional to take care of it for you.
Book Us Today
Fire N’ Stone is a full-service chimney service in Central New Hampshire with over 13 years of experience. Our certified professionals will inspect and clean your chimney and take care of necessary repairs to keep mold and other hazards at bay. And, if you need a new fireplace or stove installed, or custom stonework, we can handle that too. From frame to finish, we do it all. Book your appointment today at 603-293-4040.