Cracks, Creaks & Leaks: 7 Signs Your Chimney Needs Repair Before Winter

Your fireplace may look fine from the living room — but up on the roof, your chimney might be telling a different story.

As temperatures drop, moisture, heat, and freeze-thaw cycles take a toll on brick, mortar, and flue liners. Ignoring those small issues now could mean big repair bills (and chilly nights) later.

At BrickHaus Chimney, we’ve seen every type of chimney problem Chicagoland weather can throw — from cracked crowns to leaning stacks. Our team inspects, repairs, and restores chimneys so they draft properly, stay safe, and last for decades.

7 Warning Signs Your Chimney Needs Attention

• Cracked or crumbling mortar joints – Water seeps in, freezes, expands, and causes even more damage.
•  White staining (efflorescence) – A sign moisture is trapped inside your masonry.
• Rust on your damper or firebox – Water is finding its way in from the top.
• Spalling brick (flaking or breaking apart) – Usually caused by moisture or poor waterproofing.
•  Leaning or separating chimney: Structural red flag  don’t wait on this one!!!!
•  Smoke backing into your home – Your flue or draft system may be blocked or damaged.
•  Pieces of tile or debris in the firebox – Often means a failing flue liner, which can be a fire hazard.

If you’ve spotted one (or more) of these signs, it’s time to call in the pros. A full chimney inspection can catch minor issues before winter weather makes them worse.

Whether you need tuckpointing, waterproofing, or a total rebuild, Brickhaus Chimney has you covered — literally from crown to hearth.

 Schedule your fall chimney inspection today!

We’ll identify any damage, give you clear repair options, and make sure your chimney’s safe, efficient, and ready for another Chicago winter.

Picture this: it’s December, the snow’s falling, your fireplace is roaring and your chimney is in perfect working order. No drafts, no leaks, no worries. That’s the Brickhaus way: a safer, warmer home that’s built to last. If your chimney’s starting to lean like it’s trying to see over the neighbor’s fence… it’s probably time to call us.