As Beverly’s summer heat and humidity rise, older brick chimneys—especially in homes built before 1980—face hidden risks. We’re seeing a spike in moisture damage and liner failures in masonry work. Schedule a free inspection today to avoid costly repairs before the peak season hits.
Check 1: Brickwork for cracked mortar and spalling in Beverly’s older homes
Beverly’s historic homes often have chimneys built with lime mortar that wasn’t designed for modern humidity swings. Look for white, chalky efflorescence on bricks or gaps wider than a credit card in the joints. These aren’t just cosmetic issues—they let water seep in, freeze, and split bricks apart. If you spot these signs near your serving Beverly and nearby towns, don’t wait for the next nor’easter. A licensed sweep can assess whether tuckpointing is needed before the summer storms roll in. See our tuckpointing checklist for Beverly homeowners.
Check 2: Flue liner condition before summer fireplace use
Many Beverly homes built in the 1950s–70s have clay tile liners that crack under heat stress. A quick flashlight check from the firebox can reveal gaps or missing chunks. If your liner is compromised, burning wood this summer could send heat into the brick structure, risking a chimney fire. Older metal liners often corrode at the seams, especially near the damper. We recommend a Level 1 inspection before your first summer fire. Learn what a Level 1 inspection covers.
Check 3: Cap and screen for summer critters and debris
Beverly’s coastal humidity attracts birds, squirrels, and insects that nest in uncapped chimneys. A missing or damaged chimney cap lets leaves and pine needles pile up, blocking airflow and trapping moisture. Check the screen for holes—even small ones let pests squeeze through. Upgrading to a stainless steel cap with a fine mesh screen also prevents water from pooling in the flue, a common cause of liner failure in older masonry. See 7 local reasons to upgrade your Beverly chimney cap.