Cracks in mortor joints.

[Vern Heiler]

1941 House with wood burning fireplace. Very limited view of the flue from the fireplace and no view from the roof. Only these small cracks in the chimney, about 5 - 6' down from the top and only on one side. Could this have been cause by a chimney fire, or is it typical cracking? Should I call for further inspection?

[Eric Barker]

In my area we experience sub-freezing temps and that's bad news for chimneys that have separations in the mortar. I always report the condition and recommend repair.

[John Kogel]

I will call out any wood-burning fireplace and chimney, and certainly a chimney that age needs a thorough inspection by a specialist. It may be brick-lined, cracked inside as well.
Hard to say why the crack is there, but good you picked it up.

If they plan to burn wood, they could have a metal liner and an airtight insert installed.

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[wayne soper]

Did you look down the flue?
Are the flashings above at the roof connection to the chimney leaking and causing water to enter behind the brick and freeze.
That's my guess from the pic.

[Vern Heiler]

Did you look down the flue?
Are the flashings above at the roof connection to the chimney leaking and causing water to enter behind the brick and freeze.
That's my guess from the pic.

Chimney height and rain cap prevented looking down, smoke chamber angle prevented good view looking up! Flashing is new and looks in good condition. Cracks are on the far side from the wall/roof connection.

I'm going to recommend further inspection and repair of the cracks just to be safe.

[Raymond Wand]

Could be the result of subsidence of the chimney footing.