Chimneys serve to expel smoke and fumes from your home’s fireplaces and woodstoves. They are also used in commercial properties for the same purpose, expelling smoke and fumes from furnaces and stoves.  Your chimney works to keep your property safe from potential dangers such as fire or outdoor elements. In a home, a warm and cozy fireplace if often the reason for a chimney as the two element of design go hand in hand. For your home there are a variety of chimney types, so choosing the one right for your home is key. Let’s explore the different types of chimneys along with their advantages and disadvantages.

Masonry Chimneys

Masonry chimneys are the ones which most often come to mind when you picture a chimney. Masonry chimneys are made from stone, bricks, masonry blocks, and concrete brick, and is usually paired with an open log fireplace. Their charm and warmth make them popular choices for homeowners looking to add character and value to their homes. Masonry chimneys, when built and maintained properly deliver durability and safety. 

Masonry chimneys offer a number of benefits including appearance and function, lasting for decades when properly maintained. They also allow homeowners to personalize the look, providing unmatched character to the home’s style. Masonry chimneys increase the resale value of your home. Masonry chimneys have a few disadvantages, such as requiring a heavy foundation and roof space, and being more costly than prefabricated models to install.

Prefabricated (Factory-Built) Chimneys

Prefabricated chimneys are factory-built chimneys usually made of sheet metals. They are crafted offsite, come in a variety of contemporary designs, and installed as a pre-made unit onsite. The most common prefabricated chimneys are double-walled, mass-insulated, but factory-build chimneys include air-cooled chimneys and air-insulated chimneys.

While more economical, prefabricated chimneys don’t deliver the aesthetic appeal of masonry chimneys. On the plus side, pre-fabricated chimneys are easy to install and deliver a low maintenance option for homeowners. On the downside, prefabricated chimneys are not as durable as masonry chimneys, don’t have the charm and curb appeal, and are more frequently installed improperly than other chimneys. 

Stove Chimneys

Freestanding wood-burning stoves may be connected to special masonry chimneys or prefabricated specialty chimneys designed for the purpose. Freestanding wood-burning stoves can also be connected the existing chimney. Most wood-burning stove chimneys are crafted of stone, metal, or prefabricated which can withstand the extreme heat and is often dependent on the type of stove.

Wood-stove chimneys are efficient, offer a number of designs, and can fit nearly any budget. The disadvantages include more space is required for stove and chimney, and walls can be damaged when not properly maintained.

Chimney Shapes and Styles

In addition to chimney types, chimneys are also classed according to shape and styles. Among the most popular are paired chimneys or double chimneys. Paired chimneys are often seen on homes crafted in Georgian style. Double chimneys are place near the roof center in cooler climates to radiate heat, but placed near end walls in warmer climates to ensure heat dissipation. Another unique chimney includes those now as a play of angles chimneys, often used on homes with roofs featuring unusual angles. Curved top chimneys, made of stone, feature an arched cap designed to ward off rain. 

Call on Turnbull Masonry for Your Chimney Installation

Whatever chimney you prefer, the professionals at Turnbull Masonry have the knowledge and expertise to install and maintain your chimney, keeping your home safe and warm. Call today for the highest quality chimney installation, inspection, maintenance, repair, and more from Turnbull Masonry – the best in the business in Toronto and the surrounding area.