HPC of South Bend and St. Joseph County - Standards Update Draft

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City of South Bend and St. Joseph County Historic Preservation Guidelines 81 For More Information: Chimneys A functional part of a building installed to remove smoke from an interior fireplace, on the exterior, historic chimneys are often distinctive features that contribute to the overall architectural look of the building . Today, many chimneys are no longer functional but should be retained for their character. However, their non-use can create problems as the hot gasses and moisture that used to move up through the flue are no longer present to keep mortar pliable. Since chimneys are masonry constructions—it is best to follow guidance about masonry repair and maintenance when considering a project . The National Park Service offers the following when embarking on any masonry repairs here . Best Practices • Maintain chimneys to avoid future roof damage . • Unused chimneys should be capped with masonry caps which maintain their design . This will help keep water and critters from entering . • Decorative shapes can include corbeling—the slight projection of different rows of bricks—or perhaps a clay chimney pot. • Since chimneys are exposed to the elements on all four of their sides, the masonry will deteriorate faster than other surfaces and parts of a building, necessitating regular maintenance and repair . • Not all chimneys are important, though . Some were added to the side of a building when a later boiler or furnace was installed . These are not important to retain and can be removed . • Tuckpoint a chimney as soon as mortar joints begin to show evidence of deterioration . • Cover a roof during masonry repairs to avoid damaging the covering . • Keep flashings around a chimney/roof connection watertight. Return to the Table of Contents Chimneys DRAFT