Chimney Chatter - Black on side of chimney

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Topic: Black on side of chimney (Read 106 times)

suggi
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Black on side of chimney
« Thread Started on Apr 7, 2009, 10:52pm »

My chimney needs repointing where it slops out on the side and it looks blackish. Is this mold????

I was going to try to get up on a ladder and clean it but am afraid to as I am allergic to mold. How do I find a good chimney repair person in Massachusetts?

Any thoughts on the black? If it is mold I don't want it washing down in the mulch.

Thaniks much.

suggi

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supersweeper
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Re: Black on side of chimney
« Reply #1 on Apr 8, 2009, 2:07pm »

It could be mold, or it could just be soot. If the chimney vents an oil furnace and is near the top it is most likely soot. But i do alot of mold on the outside of chimneys and it's either black or green. A Step in Time will likely be servicing your area soon and definatley this fall.

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suggi
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Re: Black on side of chimney
« Reply #2 on Apr 8, 2009, 4:25pm »

Thanks for the input. Hope I can wait until then as it looks like there are a few deep holes where the grout or whatever used to be. I noticed there is green in with the black too.

I am more worried about the holes and hope water is not getting in there. I am 71 and afraid to get up on a ladder although the slope is not too high up. I wouldn't know how to fix it anyway and have had such bad luck with contractors I do not know who to call.

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henryshousework
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Re: Black on side of chimney
« Reply #3 on Nov 6, 2009, 10:32pm »

If it's black and on the shoulder of the chimney its probably a biological growth called Gleocaspa Magma Algae. It can be removed with a bleach and soap solution. If the bleach won't remove it, then it's probably carbon or soot deposits (There may be a leak in the chimney) That can be removed using an acid based cleaner called PRO BRC. A company called Sun Brite Supply sells it.

If its carbon deposits I would highly suggest contacting the company that owns this BBS, or a local chimney inspection company to make sure you don't have a leak that smoke and possibly fire may come through.

If anyone has questions about pressure washing, or exterior cleaning services feel free to email me.

Henry Bockman
President, Henry's Housework

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