News from the Bricks
Beyond the Chimney: Masonry Maintenance Tips for Oregon Homeowners
Your chimney isn’t the only masonry exposed to Oregon’s wet weather. Brick walls, stonework, steps, walkways, and retaining walls can all develop cracks, deteriorating mortar, and moisture damage over time. Learn the warning signs of masonry deterioration, when tuckpointing or repairs may be needed, and how regular inspections and preventative maintenance can help protect your home’s brick and stonework.
What Is Spalling Brick—and Why Should You Never Ignore It?
Flaking, cracking, or crumbling bricks may be signs of spalling, a common masonry problem caused by moisture exposure and deterioration. While it may start as minor surface damage, untreated brick spalling can lead to costly chimney and masonry repairs. Learn how to recognize the warning signs, what causes bricks to deteriorate, and why addressing moisture problems early can help protect your home.
Why Water Is One of the Biggest Threats to Your Chimney
Water is one of the biggest threats to masonry chimneys, especially in Oregon’s wet climate. Over time, moisture can cause cracked bricks, deteriorating mortar, damaged crowns, and costly structural repairs. Learn where water enters your chimney, the warning signs to watch for, and how professional inspections, waterproofing, and routine maintenance can help protect your chimney for years to come.
Firewood Selection: What You Need to Know
How to Choose the Best Wood for Your Fireplace or Wood InsertThe wood you burn matters more than many homeowners realize. The right firewood can help your fireplace or wood insert burn hotter and cleaner, while the wrong wood can create excessive smoke, poor...
Essential Chimney Care Before Winter
As winter approaches in Oregon, it’s crucial to inspect and clean your fireplace and chimney. Regular maintenance can prevent chimney fires caused by creosote buildup and other hazards. The National Fire Protection Association recommends annual inspections to address potential issues, ensuring safe and enjoyable use of your fireplace throughout the season.
Tuckpointing, Sealing, or a Roofline-Up Rebuild? How We Decide What Your Chimney Actually Needs
Tuckpointing, Sealing, or a Roofline-Up Rebuild? How We Decide What Your Chimney Actually NeedsWhen homeowners notice cracks in mortar, loose bricks, or water getting into a chimney, one of the biggest questions is: Do I need tuckpointing, sealing, or a full rebuild?...
Is Something Living in Your Chimney? Why Chimney Caps Are Essential for Oregon Homeowners
Why you should have a Chimney CapIf you’ve ever heard scratching, chirping, or rustling sounds coming from your fireplace, you’re not imagining things. Birds, raccoons, squirrels, and other wildlife commonly find their way into uncapped chimneys, especially in the...
Spring Cleaning Starts at Home: Chimneys, Dryer Vents & Masonry You Shouldn’t Overlook
Spring Cleaning Starts At HomeEvery spring, homeowners across Tualatin and the greater Portland area break out the mops, tackle the garage, and deep clean the house from top to bottom. But there’s a short list of home maintenance items that almost always get skipped —...
Don’t Wait Until Winter: Why Spring & Summer Is the Best Time for Chimney Inspection, Cleaning & Repair
INTEGRITY CHIMNEY | SPRING & SUMMER CHIMNEY GUIDE Your chimney works hard all winter keeping your home warm and your family comfortable... but once the last fire burns out, most homeowners simply forget about it until the cold returns. That’s a mistake that can...