Chimney Sweeping & Repair in Norfolk, VA

The Norfolk Intl Ap station averages 41 nights a year at or below 32°F and 4 at or below 20°F.^1,2 Repeated freeze-thaw cycles open small masonry cracks; an inspection should include the crown, the cap and the condition of the flue tiles. The median home in the city of Norfolk was built in 1964, older than the U.S. median of 1980 and older than the Virginia median of 1984.³ Older masonry chimneys may be unlined or have cracked clay tile liners; a Level 2 camera inspection is the standard way to confirm the liner before the first fire of the season.

The stock is old by national standards: 67% of Norfolk's housing units were built before 1980 (U.S. 50%), and only 9% since 2010.³ Rainfall is substantial: about 49 inches a year, 13 days of it an inch or more.^1,2 Heavy rain tests the flashing and crown; most chimney leaks enter there rather than through the brick, and the inspection report should say which. Snowfall averages about 6 inches a year.^1,2

Heating and cooling loads are both real: about 3,070 heating and 1,873 cooling degree days a year (base 65°F).^1,2 With both heating and cooling seasons, assemblies are specified for moisture movement in both directions. Building permits in Norfolk are normally issued by the city, which is not part of a county.^4,5 Where a liner or rebuild needs a permit, the contractor files it with the city before work starts.