by Cliff Slagle | May 31, 2019 | Masonry
There are a lot of issues that can arise when you own a masonry fireplace and chimney. This is is especially true if your chimney system in older. Masonry chimneys are constructed to withstand a lot of abuse. This makes sense when you consider that your chimney has to... by Cliff Slagle | Nov 24, 2017 | Masonry
Have you noticed cracks in the masonry of your chimney? If you have, you may wonder what causes your masonry to crack as well as how it can be fixed. At Old Smokey’s we want you to know that cracking brickwork and mortar can be a serious issue that may have a... by Cliff Slagle | Jul 24, 2017 | Masonry
Picture a hot and humid day in August. It’s 89 degrees. Doesn’t ice, sleet, and snow seem like a dream, like rude memories? As you’re sitting on the porch or by your pool, a few words from last year’s chimney inspection echo in your mind: “You don’t have any... 
by Cliff Slagle | Aug 19, 2016 | Masonry
Do you indulge in daydreams of wintry ice, sleet and snow in the air-conditioned dog days of summer? Perhaps to keep cool. Nevertheless, these sweltering days are an ideal time to consider chimney problems that might affect your comfort on a cold February night. Maybe... by Cliff Slagle | May 12, 2015 | Masonry
Because of the inherent nature of the materials used to build traditional masonry chimneys, with the lone exception being those that have been adequately waterproofed, water is naturally going to soak into the bricks and mortar. This water intrusion ultimately speeds... 