After Murfreesboro’s spring storms roll through, inspect your chimney’s masonry for cracks, eroded joints, or blocked passages. If you find shifting bricks, damp stains on the interior walls, or a sagging clay tile liner, call a certified sweep immediately, older homes with their century-old brickwork are especially prone to hidden damage that worsens over time. Never light a fire until a specialist confirms it’s safe.
What is a post-storm chimney inspection, and why older Murfreesboro homes need one
A post-storm chimney inspection is a thorough check of your chimney’s structure, liner, and connections after high winds, hail, or ice storms. Murfreesboro’s older brick homes, especially those built before the 1980s, often have original masonry that’s more prone to storm damage. Unlike newer homes with metal liners, older chimneys rely on mortar joints and brickwork to stay intact. After a storm, even small cracks or displaced bricks can let in moisture, which weakens mortar over time and creates fire hazards.
The Chimney Safety Institute of America CSIA recommends inspecting your chimney after any severe weather, but Murfreesboro’s clay-heavy soil and frequent summer-to-winter temperature swings make this even more critical. If your chimney has a crown (the top cap) made of concrete or mortar, storms can chip or crack it, allowing water to seep into the flue. Over time, this leads to spalling, where bricks flake off, and can compromise the entire structure.
What to look for immediately after a storm: - Loose or missing bricks, especially near the crown or smoke chamber. - Gaps in the flue or mortar wider than a dime’s thickness. - Debris (leaves, branches, or even small animals) lodged in the flue. - Rust stains or water streaks inside the chimney, signaling leaks. - A sagging or misaligned flue liner, which can happen if the masonry shifts.
If you see any of these, shut down the fireplace until a sweep examines it. Instead, call a licensed chimney sweep who specializes in older brick homes, like those in Murfreesboro’s historic neighborhoods near Old Fort Park or Downtown Square. A professional can assess whether the damage requires a repointing (mortar repair), tuckpointing, or even a full chimney rebuild. For a free estimate on storm damage repairs, contact us today, we serve Murfreesboro and nearby areas like La Vergne and Franklin.
Step 1: Check the chimney crown: Murfreesboro’s #1 storm damage hotspot
The crown is the most storm-vulnerable part of your chimney, yet homeowners often overlook it. In Murfreesboro, where summer storms bring hail and high winds, a cracked or eroded crown is a common issue. A properly sloped crown (at least 1/4 inch per foot) directs water away from the flue, but storms can chip it or wash away mortar, creating a direct path for water to enter.
How to inspect your crown: 1. Safety first: Use a sturdy ladder and wear gloves. Never stand on the roof, if the crown is severely damaged, you risk falling debris. 2. Look for: - Cracks wider than 1/8 inch. - Missing chunks of mortar or concrete. - A crown that’s sunk in or uneven (signs of water erosion). - Spalling bricks (bricks with flaking edges) near the crown. 3. What it means: - If the crown is minorly cracked, it may need a mortar patch or a new waterproof cap. - If it’s severely damaged, the entire crown may need replacement. A DIY fix won’t last. Murfreesboro’s humidity and freeze-thaw cycles will accelerate deterioration.
Pro tip: If your chimney crown is made of mortar (common in older homes), it’s more prone to cracking than a metal or slate cap. Metal caps are more durable but can rust if not properly sealed. For historic homes, a brick chimney cap with a clay tile overlay is the most traditional and long-lasting option.
Cost to repair: A new crown in Murfreesboro typically ranges from $300 to $800, depending on materials and chimney height. If the damage extends to the flue liner, expect to pay $1,000–$3,000 for repairs. Learn more about chimney repair costs in our pricing guide.
Step 2: Inspect the flue liner, hidden damage that leads to fires
A damaged flue liner is one of the most dangerous post-storm chimney issues, yet it’s invisible from the outside. In older Murfreesboro homes, many chimneys still have clay tile liners or no liner at all, which are highly susceptible to storm-related cracks. A broken liner can’t contain heat or gases, increasing the risk of a chimney fire, which can spread to your home’s roof or walls in minutes.
How to check for liner damage: - From the fireplace: Look up the flue with a flashlight. If you see rust stains, soot buildup in odd patterns, or glowing embers when burning wood, the liner may be compromised. - From the roof: If you can safely access the smoke chamber (the area where the flue meets the roof), look for blackened or charred spots, signs of a past fire caused by a cracked liner. - Listen for: A hissing or popping sound when burning wood, which means hot gases are escaping through cracks.
What to do if you suspect liner damage: - Do not use your fireplace. Even a small crack can let carbon monoxide into your home. - Call a chimney sweep with a flue camera. A standard inspection won’t catch hidden cracks, you need a Level 2 inspection (which includes removing debris and using a camera to inspect the liner). In Murfreesboro, homes near Stone’s River or in older neighborhoods often have liners installed in the 1950s–70s, which are past their lifespan.
Repair options: - Stainless steel liner replacement: The most durable fix, costing $1,500–$4,000 depending on chimney height and complexity. - Ceramic liner repair: Cheaper but less long-lasting ($800–$2,000). - No liner? If your chimney has no liner, you must install one before using it, older brick chimneys can’t safely contain heat without one.
Why this matters in Murfreesboro: The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) NFPA 211 states that 25% of chimney fires start because of a cracked or missing liner. If your home was built before 1980, there’s a high chance your liner needs updating. Schedule a Level 2 inspection to check your liner, we use high-definition cameras to spot cracks you can’t see.
Step 3: Assess the masonry, brick and mortar damage after storms
Murfreesboro’s older brick homes often have original masonry laid with lime mortar, which is softer and more prone to erosion than modern cement mortar. After a storm, check for: - Loose or missing bricks (especially near the smoke chamber or base). - Crumbling mortar joints (if you can fit a pencil into a joint, it’s time for repointing). - Bulging or leaning bricks (signs of structural weakness). - Water stains on the exterior bricks (indicates leaks).
What this damage means: - Minor cracks (less than 1/4 inch): May need tuckpointing (replacing damaged mortar) or a mortar patch. - Major cracks or shifted bricks: Could require brick replacement or chimney underpinning (a costly but necessary fix for safety). - Efflorescence (white powdery residue): A sign of moisture damage, if ignored, it can lead to spalling (bricks flaking apart).
Costs for masonry repairs in Murfreesboro: | Repair Type | Cost Range | When Needed | |--------------------------|----------------------|------------------------------------------| | Mortar patching | $150–$400 | Small cracks, loose mortar | | Tuckpointing | $500–$1,200 | Widespread mortar erosion | | Brick replacement | $300–$800 per brick | Missing or severely damaged bricks | | Chimney rebuild | $3,000–$10,000+ | Structural instability, major damage |
Pro tip: If your chimney is leaning, it’s a red flag. In Murfreesboro’s clay soil, foundations can shift over time, especially after heavy storms. A structural engineer may need to assess whether the entire chimney needs underpinning or rebuilding.
DIY warning: Never attempt masonry repairs yourself unless you’re a licensed mason. Poorly done repairs can make damage worse, especially in older brick chimneys where the mortar is historically matched. For licensed masonry repairs, contact our team, we’ve worked on historic homes in Smyrna and Franklin with similar issues.
Step 4: Clear debris and check for blockages: Murfreesboro’s storm aftermath risks
After a storm, your chimney may be filled with leaves, branches, or even small animals (like squirrels or birds). In Murfreesboro, oak and hickory trees shed heavy debris, and high winds can push branches into flues. A blocked chimney is a fire hazard, creosote buildup mixed with dry leaves creates a tinderbox.
How to safely clear debris: 1. From the roof: If you can safely access the smoke chamber, remove large debris with a grabbing tool (never your hands). 2. From the fireplace: Use a chimney brush (if you’re comfortable doing this yourself) or a vacuum with a long hose to suck out fine debris. 3. Check for nests: If you hear scratching or scurrying in the chimney, there’s likely an animal inside. Do not try to remove it yourself, call a professional. We offer emergency animal removal services.
Warning signs of a blockage: - Smoke backing into your home when burning wood. - A strong, foul odor coming from the chimney. - Soot stains on the fireplace walls (indicates poor draft). - Unusual sounds (popping, crackling) when the fire is lit.
Cost to clear a blocked chimney: A professional sweep in Murfreesboro charges $120–$250 for a standard cleaning, but if the blockage is severe (e.g., a nest or heavy debris), expect $200–$400. Get a free estimate for storm-related blockages.
Why this matters: The EPA’s Burn Wise program EPA warns that a blocked chimney can cause creosote fires, which burn at 2,000°F, hot enough to melt a steel flue liner. If your chimney was already damaged by the storm, a blockage can turn a minor issue into a major fire risk.
Step 5: Test the chimney’s draft and carbon monoxide risks
A storm can disrupt your chimney’s draft (the upward flow of smoke), leading to smoke spillage or carbon monoxide (CO) buildup. Older Murfreesboro homes with single-wall masonry chimneys (common in pre-1980 builds) are especially vulnerable because they lack the insulation of modern double-wall systems.
How to test for draft issues: 1. Light a small fire (if the chimney is clear of debris). 2. Observe the smoke: - Good draft: Smoke rises straight up the flue. - Poor draft: Smoke lingers or backs into the room. - Reverse draft: Smoke blows into the house (a dangerous sign, extinguish the fire immediately). 3. Use a draft gauge: A chimney draft gauge (available at hardware stores) measures airflow. A healthy draft should be 0.01–0.03 inches of water column (WC). If it’s negative, your chimney isn’t pulling smoke upward.
What causes poor draft after a storm? - Cracked or missing crown (lets wind blow down the flue). - Damaged flue liner (restricts airflow). - Blocked chimney (debris or nests). - High humidity or cold temperatures (Murfreesboro’s fall weather can reduce draft).
Carbon monoxide risks: - If your chimney has no liner or a cracked liner, CO can leak into your home. - Symptoms of CO poisoning: Headache, dizziness, nausea, or fatigue, especially when using the fireplace. - Solution: Install a CO detector near the fireplace and never use generators or gas appliances indoors if the chimney is damaged.
What to do if draft is poor: - Call a chimney sweep to inspect for blockages or liner damage. - Avoid burning wood until the issue is fixed. - Consider a chimney cap with a draft inducer (helps in high-wind conditions).
Cost for draft testing: A professional inspection to diagnose draft issues typically costs $100–$200 in Murfreesboro. Schedule a draft test and safety check.
When to call a Murfreesboro chimney sweep, don’t wait for winter
If you’re unsure about any damage, call a professional. Murfreesboro’s older brick homes require specialized knowledge, what looks like a minor crack to a homeowner can be a structural failure waiting to happen. Here’s when to stop guessing and call a chimney sweep:
- You see any of the damage signs listed above (cracks, loose bricks, water stains). - Your chimney has no liner (or a clay tile liner older than 30 years). - You hear unusual noises (popping, crackling, or hissing) when burning wood. - Smoke isn’t rising or is backing into the room. - You suspect an animal is nesting in the chimney. - Your home’s roof or attic shows signs of water damage near the chimney.
Why hire a local Murfreesboro expert? - We understand older brick masonry, many of our techs have worked on homes in Downtown Murfreesboro and Old Fort Park with original 1800s-era chimneys. - We use flue cameras to spot hidden damage that a visual inspection misses. - We offer free estimates and same-day service for storm damage emergencies. - We provide warranties on repairs and licensed, insured work.
What to expect during a post-storm inspection: 1. Visual inspection of the crown, masonry, and smoke chamber. 2. Flue camera inspection (if needed) to check the liner. 3. Draft test to ensure safe operation. 4. Debris removal and chimney sweep. 5. Detailed report with repair recommendations and cost estimates.
Cost for a post-storm inspection: $150–$300 in Murfreesboro, depending on the scope. Book your inspection before winter, avoid last-minute rush fees.
| Issue | DIY Cost (If Safe) | Pro Cost in Murfreesboro | When to Call a Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minor crown crack | $50–$100 (hydraulic cement) | $300–$600 (new crown) | If crack is >1/8 inch or spreading |
| Mortar joint repair | $30–$80 (tuckpointing kit) | $500–$1,200 (professional tuckpointing) | If mortar is crumbling or bricks are loose |
| Flue liner crack | N/A (dangerous DIY) | $1,500–$4,000 (stainless steel liner) | Always, cracks can cause fires |
| Loose or missing brick | $100–$300 (brick + mortar) | $300–$800 per brick | If brick is shifted or spalling |
| Chimney rebuild | N/A | $3,000–$10,000+ | If chimney is leaning or structurally unsound |
| Animal removal | N/A | $200–$400 | Always, prevents further damage or fire hazards |
Frequently Asked Questions
My Murfreesboro chimney has a few small cracks after a storm. Can I fix them myself, or should I call a pro?
Small cracks (less than 1/8 inch) in the crown or mortar joints can sometimes be patched with hydraulic cement or chimney sealant, but this is a temporary fix. Older brick chimneys in Murfreesboro often have lime mortar, which doesn’t bond well with modern cement. A professional tuckpointing job will last years and prevent water damage. If the cracks are in the flue liner, never attempt a DIY fix, this requires a licensed chimney sweep to assess and replace the liner safely.
I noticed rust stains inside my chimney near the smoke chamber. What does this mean, and is it urgent?
Rust stains inside your chimney mean water is leaking into the flue, likely from a cracked crown, damaged liner, or poorly sealed joints. This is urgent, rust weakens metal components, and moisture can lead to mold, creosote buildup, or a chimney fire. In Murfreesboro’s humid climate, this damage spreads quickly. Do not use your fireplace until a chimney sweep inspects the liner and crown. A stainless steel liner replacement may be needed to prevent future leaks.
My chimney leans slightly after a storm. Is this normal, or should I be worried?
A leaning chimney is never normal and indicates structural instability, often caused by shifting soil, weakened masonry, or foundation issues. In Murfreesboro’s clay-heavy soil, foundations can settle over time, especially after heavy storms. If the lean is more than 1–2 inches, the chimney may need underpinning or rebuilding. Never ignore this, a leaning chimney can collapse, especially during high winds. Call a structural engineer and a licensed chimney repair specialist immediately.
I found a dead animal in my chimney after a storm. How do I get it out safely?
Do not try to remove a dead animal yourself, it can dislodge debris, damage the liner, or even fall into your home. Instead, call a chimney sweep with animal removal experience. In Murfreesboro, we’ve removed everything from squirrels to raccoons without causing further damage. The process involves ventilation, debris removal, and a thorough cleaning to ensure no nesting materials or odors remain. Cost: $200–$400, depending on the size and location of the animal.