Minnesota’s Changing Climate is Wreaking Havoc on Your Chimney’s Masonry – Here’s What Hennepin County Homeowners Need to Know
As Hennepin County experiences the effects of climate change, homeowners are discovering an unexpected consequence: accelerated deterioration of their chimney masonry. The variability in weather that Minnesota is known for between warm and cool and wet and dry will still be a staple of our climate, with projections showing that in some ways the climate will become more variable. This increased variability puts increased strain on residents, communities, businesses, county operations, and the natural environment.
While Minnesota’s winters have become warmer overall, the real threat to masonry structures lies in the increased frequency of temperature fluctuations around the freezing point. These changes are creating a perfect storm for chimney damage that many homeowners don’t see coming until it’s too late.
The Science Behind Climate-Driven Masonry Damage
The primary culprit behind accelerated chimney deterioration is the freeze-thaw cycle. The freeze-thaw process is based on one unique characteristic of water — it expands by nine percent when it freezes. In a more moderate climate, water seeps into cracks and openings in rock during the day and freezes overnight. This process is particularly destructive to masonry because when this water refreezes, it expands, causing cracks and the lifting of surfaces, resulting in potholes, among other things. Freeze-thaw events in the ground can also accelerate the degradation of wood, weaken stone foundations and affect masonry.
In Hennepin County specifically, Bloomington experiences Minnesota’s harsh weather, from icy, snowy winters to warm and humid summers. It’s this dramatic seasonal shift that places a heavy burden that can cause problems for chimneys. The county’s climate creates conditions where freeze-thaw cycles can occur daily in many climates where the temperature drops below freezing at night and rises above freezing during the day.
How Climate Change is Making Things Worse
Recent climate data reveals concerning trends for masonry structures. Results indicated that in the recent 40 years (i.e., 1981-2020), Minnesota winters have become warmer by 1-2 °F daytime and 2-5 °F nighttime temperatures. However, this warming doesn’t necessarily mean less damage to masonry structures.
Research shows that researchers found an increase in precipitation of 0.5 to 1 inch both before and at the end of the cold season. More moisture can exacerbate heaving in the pavement and subgrade. This increased moisture, combined with more variable temperatures, creates ideal conditions for masonry deterioration.
Additionally, rapid temperature fluctuations and melting snow can exacerbate existing cracks and weaknesses. Also, our hot, humid summers can accelerate masonry deterioration and promote mold growth within the chimney.
Common Signs of Climate-Related Chimney Damage
Hennepin County homeowners should watch for these warning signs of climate-induced chimney deterioration:
- While stones are much harder than bricks, the first to erode is often the mortar, a softer, more porous material. Once the mortar starts to decay, it’s only a matter of time before bricks or stones fall to the ground.
- Cracked chimney crowns, deteriorated mortar joints, water infiltration, damaged chimney liners, brick spalling (surface flaking), white staining (efflorescence), and dangerous creosote accumulation in wood-burning systems.
- Flaking or crumbling masonry. Damaged or rusted chimney cap. Draft issues or smoke backing up into the home.
The interconnected nature of these problems means that water damage can accelerate mortar deterioration, making early intervention crucial for cost-effective repairs.
The Importance of Professional Assessment and Repair
Given the accelerating pace of climate-related damage, professional chimney services have become more critical than ever. The gaps in the joints from mortar erosion provide channels for moisture to get inside the chimney, leading to extensive internal damage. Repointing or tuckpointing stops the damage in its tracks and helps protect from further water damage.
For Hennepin County residents facing these challenges, Chimney Masonry Repair Hennepin County services provided by experienced professionals like Suburban Chimney Solutions can make the difference between minor repairs and major reconstruction. We are a local, family-owned and operated company that is focused on caring for our customers. Our team relentlessly works to improve our service, products and value which is what our customers deserve.
With years of experience in the industry, we have established ourselves as trusted experts in residential chimney work, delivering high-quality services and solutions to our valued customers. Our team consists of professional and certified technicians who are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of workmanship and safety, ensuring that your chimney receives the care and attention it deserves.
Preventive Measures for Climate Resilience
Homeowners can take several steps to protect their chimneys from climate-related damage:
- Schedule annual inspections to catch problems early
- Ensure proper waterproofing to prevent moisture infiltration
- Address mortar joint deterioration promptly through repointing
- Install proper chimney caps and crowns to shed water effectively
- Consider professional waterproofing treatments designed for Minnesota’s climate
Professional-quality repairs using appropriate materials can last 20-50 years or more, with many factors affecting longevity. Regular annual inspections and prompt attention to minor issues significantly extend repair lifespan and prevent costly emergency situations.
Looking Ahead: Adapting to Climate Reality
As Hennepin County continues to experience the effects of climate change, homeowners must adapt their maintenance strategies accordingly. The combination of increased precipitation, more variable temperatures, and intensified freeze-thaw cycles means that traditional maintenance schedules may no longer be sufficient.
Serving Twin Cities, MN and the surrounding areas, Suburban Chimney Solutions provides professional and friendly chimney service in Saint Paul, MN and the local surrounding area’s. Their comprehensive services include everything from routine maintenance to major repairs, helping homeowners stay ahead of climate-related deterioration.
The reality is that climate change isn’t just an environmental issue – it’s a home maintenance issue that’s affecting thousands of Hennepin County chimneys right now. By understanding the science behind the damage, recognizing the warning signs, and working with qualified professionals, homeowners can protect their investment and ensure their families’ safety for years to come.
Don’t wait until minor issues become major problems. With Minnesota’s increasingly unpredictable weather patterns, proactive chimney care isn’t just recommended – it’s essential for protecting your home and family.