Life
expectancy...
Estimated Life Expectancy of Materials
Exposed to Normal Weathering
Regular inspections and maintenance of your
chimneys are essential to extending the life of your building. The following
table lists common external chimney components and their estimated life
expectancy of the materials when exposed to normal weathering. Periodic and
routine inspections are valuable for determining the condition of these
materials and their behavior. Inspection records and conditions should be kept
to aid in determining possible "trouble spots" and needed repairs.
Without proper maintenance, moisture buildup
or penetration can occur, causing interior and exterior problems including
efflorescence (mainly salt crystal buildup), mortar deterioration, cracking,
corrosion, mildew and algae growth and damaged finishes.
