Chimney Lining – Acid Attack!
As HETAS-registered and Trading Standards Approved chimney specialists serving Cambridge and surrounding areas, we regularly identify and assess acid damage in chimneys across our region’s diverse housing stock. Understanding the signs and implications of acid attack is crucial for maintaining your chimney’s safety and integrity.
What is Chimney Acid Attack?
Acid attack occurs when flue gases react with moisture in your chimney, creating acidic compounds that damage the structure. Common in properties across Cambridge, Ely, Newmarket, and surrounding areas, this issue particularly affects:
- Victorian terraced houses
- Period properties
- Properties with unlined chimneys
- Chimneys with poor ventilation
Signs of Acid Damage
Our HETAS-approved sweeps regularly identify several indicators:
- Staining on chimney breasts
- Damp patches appearing
- Mortar deterioration
- White salt deposits
- Debris in the fireplace
Critical Areas of Concern
Internal Damage
The acid attack process can:
- Deteriorate cement mortar
- Cause expansion and crumbling
- Create breaches between flues
- Weaken structural integrity
- Lead to dangerous gas leakage
Mid-feather Problems
Victorian chimney design often includes vulnerable areas:
- Single-brick thickness between flues
- Unstacked bricks susceptible to damage
- Accelerated deterioration from dual exposure
- Potential for internal collapse
- Sweeping complications
Professional Assessment Methods
Our services include:
- Advanced CCTV surveys
- Thorough internal inspections
- Structural integrity checks
- Ventilation evaluation
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes chimney acid attack?
Acid damage occurs when flue gases combine with moisture, creating corrosive compounds that attack mortar and brickwork.
How can I identify acid damage?
Watch for damp patches on chimney breasts, staining, crumbling mortar, and debris in fireplaces. Professional CCTV inspection can confirm internal damage.
Can acid damage be prevented?
Regular maintenance, proper ventilation, and professional sweeping help prevent acid damage. Our HETAS-approved sweeps can advise on specific preventive measures.
Professional Maintenance Recommendations
Regular maintenance should include:
- Annual CCTV inspections
- Professional sweeping
- Ventilation checks
- Expert evaluation
Contact Your Local Chimney Experts
We offer comprehensive chimney services across Cambridgeshire, Suffolk, Essex and Hertfordshire:
- HETAS-approved chimney sweeping
- CCTV chimney surveys
- Cre-away creosote removal
- Emergency support
- Bird nest removal
- Flue cleaning for Agas, gas appliances, and boilers
Contact us for Trading Standards Approved chimney services and advice:
- 01223 627012
- hello@ablewight.co.uk
Our HETAS-registered and Trading Standards Approved professionals can advise on your chimney’s specific needs and maintenance requirements across Cambridge, Ely, Newmarket, Royston, Saffron Walden, St Ives, Huntingdon, St Neots, and Bishop’s Stortford.
Why Choose Ablewight?
- HETAS registered professionals
- Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps certified
- Trading Standards Approved
- Extensive local experience
- Comprehensive chimney services
- Expert advice
