What Richardson chimneys usually need
Neighborhoods like Richardson Heights, Canyon Creek and Cottonwood Heights were built mostly in the 1950s through the 1970s, with solid brick chimneys and clay tile flues. After 50 years of North Texas heat, freezes and hail, three things come up most:
- Crowns. Many original crowns were built as thin mortar washes. They crack and let water into the brick. See crown repair.
- Mortar joints. Worn joints at the top of the chimney, where weather is worst. See tuckpointing.
- Clay liners. Cracked or shifted tiles that only a camera inspection finds.
Foundation movement
The City of Richardson warns that dry North Texas clay can make foundations shift or sink, and recommends watering around the foundation in dry spells. A chimney that moves with its own footing can pull away from the house. A gap between the chimney and the wall, or cracks that step up through the brick, are worth having checked.
Codes in Richardson
Richardson enforces the 2021 International Residential and Fuel Gas codes. If your job needs a permit, we'll tell you before we start.
Questions from Richardson homeowners
Is my 1970s brick chimney safe to use?
It can be. Have it inspected with a camera first if you haven't in years, because cracked clay tiles are common at that age and can't be seen from the firebox.
My chimney is pulling away from the house. What should I do?
Stop using the fireplace and have it inspected. We'll check the flashing, the gap and the flue. If it's a foundation issue, we'll tell you so you can call a foundation specialist.