Monthly Archives: March 2024

What to do After Severe Weather Has Affected Your Roof

Before inspecting your roof, make sure that it is safe to do so. Wait until the weather has completely cleared, and there is no risk of falling debris or unstable conditions. As you wait for the weather to clear, check your home’s interior for signs of water damage. Look for water stains on ceilings, walls, or in the attic. Leaks and dampness can also indicate roof damage.

When safe to do so, examine your roof from the ground. Binoculars and drones are helpful. Look for indicators of damage, including missing or lifted shingles, cracked or damaged roofing material, or debris such as branches or tree limbs. Take pictures and/or videos of any damage to the roof and property. These will be necessary for filing your insurance claim.

After you’ve assessed the damage, reach out to your home insurance company, as they often will cover repair and replacement costs. Then, call the best local roofer. In Philadelphia, PA, that’s us, so dial 267-622-7158 now.

What causes most chimney deterioration?

A chimney begins to deteriorate the first time you light a fire in it, and each time it is used , it will deteriorate a little bit more.  The lifespan can vary based on the type of chimney and how frequently it is used. However, by keeping it well maintained, you can extend its lifespan and useability while eliminating the need for expensive chimney repair. 

A chimney made of concrete will be strong, but you need to consider the intenseness of the heat from the fires you build, as well as the weather conditions it is exposed to outside. Some other factors that contribute to the deterioration of a fireplace include: 

• A fire can produce corrosive components that erode the silicate hydrates that bond the concrete, weakening the surface so that moisture can get inside, leading to cracking and spalling.

• Flue gases leach into the area between the chimney’s shell and the liner, causing it to corrode. Over time, the liner’s coating begins to break down, allowing the hot flue gases to leach through to the chimney shell.

• Carbonation is a process that will cause extreme amounts of carbon dioxide. That carbon dioxide comes in contact with the concrete, causing it to weaken. That in turn causes the reinforcement steel to start rusting. Over time, this puts the structure in jeopardy. 

While it will take years before you begin to see these effects damage your fireplace, when they do become apparent, you can be sure that the chimney repairs will be costly! You can avoid this expense by having a professional chimney sweep inspect and clean your chimney each year either after or before winter use begins. 

Can a chimney with cracks be repaired?

A chimney that is well-built and well-maintained will give you years of enjoyment and warmth. However, if your chimney begins showing any indication of damage, it’s just a matter of time before you can experience more than expensive chimney repairs. 

When it comes to small cracks that aren’t zigzagging throughout the chimney, it isn’t in any immediate danger of collapsing. However, it is prone to water infiltration that can lead to more serious damage and costly chimney repairs. Just like the streets we drive on, once the water has infiltered into the cracks of a chimney and the temperature drops, that water freezes, expands, and expands the crack. 

From there, it is just a matter of time for the concrete to expand, and eventually, the melted ice water will gain access to the inside of the chimney. So, yes, even the most minor of cracks can be addressed by you. You can use a waterproof coating that fills and seals the crack, following the package instructions. Or if you’re not one to climb on the roof, or the cracks are large enough and the bricks are crumbling, call a professional chimney repair service. 

How is a crumbling chimney repaired?

A crumbling chimney isn’t always related to poor maintenance. They can be constructed with poor quality materials (bricks or mortar), or poor labor and crumble.  So, you see some crumbling or spalling on the chimney, it can sound frightening, but if you address it quickly, either doing your own or having professional chimney repairs done, it will save the chimney and your home. 

If you want to try your chimney repairs, we can give you the steps to follow, starting with inspecting and assessing the situation. This will allow you to isolate the problem so that you make targeted chimney repairs. Before you begin your chimney repairs, determine if it is a widespread issue or if you can’t identify the problem, stop right there and call a professional. 

If you see that there is just a handful of crumbling bricks in one location, inspect all around the areas, checking the mortar, chimney cap, and crown. Check the sealing around the cap and crown, and if you don’t see sealant, apply a waterproof sealant. 

Next, chisel out any mortar where the bricks are crumbling, and replace them with new mortar, new bricks if they are completely or over 25% crumbled. 

Will homeowners’ insurance cover a cracked chimney liner?

Maybe, maybe not, it will depend. Any chimney repairs needed due to a sudden, unexpected incident are typically covered by homeowner’s insurance. However, if the insurance adjustor deems that the chimney repair is needed simply because the chimney has been worn out based on normal use, your homeowner’s insurance will not pay. They will also not pay if the adjustor deems the chimney and fireplace have been neglected. 

The Final Dollar

If your chimney has been completely destroyed, it may be necessary to either close the fireplace off or replace the chimney.  How much does it cost to replace a chimney? That will depend on the type of material used for the chimney. You can expect on the low end to pay around $3,500 and this can go upward to $10,000 or more, with the average around $5,000 to $6,000.

Do you need chimney repair in Philadelphia, PA? If so, call us today at 267-622-7158!

Is HVAC replacement necessary?

If the following situations are happening with your current HVAC system, it is time to get a replacement unit, which will save you money in the long run: 

1. Running Longer

The older an HVAC system gets, it will often start to run longer to reach the desired temperature setting.  Schedule an appointment with a service tech, and they will inspect the unit, checking parts like the coils and blower motor. If they are in proper working order, they can advise you accordingly.

2. Loud Sounds

As the HVAC system ages, the parts get worn out and start making loud sounds. This includes the blower motor humming loudly, the furnace banging and clanking, the air conditioner rattling, and the outdoor component having loud sounds coming from it when the air conditioner is running. What can determine between HVAC repair and replacement is whether the technician finds there is a loose part or a part can be replaced at a reasonable cost. 

3. Constant Repairs

If your HVAC system needs more repairs every year, it may be time to replace the system. The expensive parts like the compressor, motor, and coils are the more expensive parts, and when you consider the labor for replacing these parts, the investment in a replacement will be more expensive upfront, but in the long run, the better choice. 

How much is a new HVAC system? 

Once you have a professional service technician inspect your system and you weigh the decision between HVAC repair and replacement, several factors have an impact on the cost of a new HVAC unit. This will start with the size of the unit, which will depend on the square footage of your home. Other factors that affect the cost of an HVAC replacement will include new duct work and the complexity of setting up the system like additional electrical or gas lines needed. The cost can range between $6,000 to $20,000, with the cost varying between companies.

Is a new HVAC system worthwhile? 

When you’re faced with the decision of HVAC repair or replacement, and you get quotes for installing a new HVAC system, you’ll have sticker shock with the replacement cost. But take some time and consider these benefits you’ll have with a new system: 

• Energy Expenses

You may not even realize how much more your current HVAC system is costing you in the energy expense category. An older system, or a system that has numerous, repetitive repairs, or expensive repairs has been using more energy just to keep up with demand. After getting a new HVAC system, you’ll notice a drop in the energy bills each month. 

• Dated Technology

The technology of HVAC systems has changed and improved over the past 25 years, including the type of refrigerant used. Where R-22 was the common refrigerant, it has been taken off the market and replaced with R-410A. This new refrigerant keeps an HVAC system running cooler as it absorbs and efficiently releases heat more than R-22 refrigerant does because it functions at a higher pressure.

The HVAC systems today are less likely to burn out because of the new refrigerant because it’s easier on the components, especially the compressor. This will give you a more reliable system and minimize the amount of allergens, dust, humidity, and mold in your home. This ensures a comfortable, healthier, and safer home for your family. 

• Increased Resale Value

If you don’t have plans to sell your home, you’ll have years of comfort in your home with a new HVAC system. But if you are considering selling your home, when it comes to deciding between HVAC repair or replacement, the replacement option will give you more value to attract potential buyers. 

How can you extend the lifespan of your HVAC system?

The first step in having a long lifespan from an HVAC system is to have professional HVAC repair and replacements. Having repairs and new installation done by a certified, licensed professional is always recommended, and when it comes to the refrigerant, it is required.  Professional service for repairs and replacement will always ensure that the job is done properly and thoroughly, including the ductwork. 

Another factor that will extend the lifespan of your HVAC system is an annual inspection by a professional. They will inspect all aspects of the system, cleaning, oiling, and adjusting as needed, replacing any parts if needed, and keeping you advised of any possible issues. 

And for your part …. Keep the air filter changed or cleaned a minimum of every 30 days. A clogged, dirty air filter will minimize the airflow, which affects the overall temperature in your home. At the same time, you address the air filter, check the drain pan and drain lines, and empty and clean as needed. Keep the exterior component clear of any debris and grass around it and check the insulation on the cooling tubes coming from the unit. 

In Closing

Nobody wants to spend large sums of money these days, and when it comes to choosing between HVAC repair and replacement, that can be a large amount of money. You need to look beyond that initial cost and consider the money you’ll save going forward, as well as the improved comfort level your family will enjoy. And remember, if you need HVAC repair and replacement in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania our team can be there to help, so give us a call! Reach out at 267-622-7158.