Hey neighbors! There's nothing better than a cozy fire on a chilly Barco evening, especially when a nor'easter is blowing off the Currituck Sound. But that same coastal weather we love can be tough on our homes, and your chimney takes a direct hit. As your local chimney experts, we see the same specific issues pop up in homes from Waterlily to the mainland. Here are the top three chimney problems unique to our beautiful corner of North Carolina.
Problem #1: The Salt and Moisture Assault
Our air isn't just fresh; it's salty and humid. This combination is a nightmare for brick and mortar. The constant moisture seeps into porous bricks, and when the salt in the air crystallizes within them, it can literally pop the faces off the bricks—a process called 'spalling.' You might also see a white, powdery stain called efflorescence, which is a clear sign of water intrusion.
A cracked chimney crown or deteriorating mortar joints act like an open door for this moisture, leading to rusted dampers, a weakened flue, and a compromised chimney structure. This is a far more aggressive process here than it is for homes further inland.
Barco Tip: Don't just seal your deck; seal your chimney! Ask a professional about specialized masonry water repellent. It creates a vapor-permeable barrier that lets the chimney breathe out but stops our damp, salty air from getting in, dramatically extending its life.
Problem #2: Wind, Rain, and Storm Damage
We're no strangers to high winds here in Currituck County. Tropical storms and strong nor'easters can wreak havoc on the top of your chimney. The most common casualty is the chimney cap. A missing or damaged cap is more than just an eyesore; it's an open invitation for gallons of driving rain to pour directly down your flue. This water damages the interior flue tiles, rusts the damper assembly, and can even seep into your home's walls and ceiling.
Flashing—the metal seal between your chimney and roof—is another weak point that high winds can lift and tear, creating a direct path for leaks.
Barco Tip: Schedule a chimney inspection before hurricane season begins. Ensuring your cap is secure and your flashing is intact can prevent a small, inexpensive repair from turning into a major water damage disaster during the next big storm.
Problem #3: Feathered and Furred Intruders
Our rural, coastal environment is full of wildlife looking for a safe, dry place to call home. An uncapped chimney is the perfect high-rise apartment for squirrels, raccoons, and birds. These critters bring in flammable nesting materials like twigs and leaves, which can easily cause a dangerous chimney fire. Worse, a nest can completely block the flue, preventing smoke and deadly carbon monoxide from escaping your home when you light a fire.
We often find nesting Chimney Swifts, a federally protected species. It's illegal to remove them during nesting season, so prevention is absolutely critical.
Barco Tip: The single best solution is a professionally installed, top-sealing damper or a chimney cap with sturdy mesh siding. It keeps animals out permanently while still allowing smoke to escape freely.
Living in Barco requires a little extra vigilance. Your chimney isn't just dealing with soot; it's battling salt, wind, and rain year-round. A regular inspection from a sweep who understands our local conditions is the best way to ensure your fireplace is safe and ready for that next cozy evening. Stay safe and warm!