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City of South Bend and St. Joseph County Historic Preservation Guidelines 81 <br />For More Information: Chimneys <br />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. <br />Since chimneys are masonry constructions—it is best to follow guidance about masonry repair and maintenance when <br />considering a project . <br />The National Park Service offers the following when embarking on any masonry repairs here . <br />Best Practices <br />• Maintain chimneys to avoid future roof damage . <br />• Unused chimneys should be capped with masonry caps which maintain their design . This will help keep water and critters from entering . <br />• Decorative shapes can include corbeling—the slight projection of different rows of bricks—or perhaps a clay chimney pot. <br />• Since chimneys are exposed to the elements on all four of their sides, the masonry will deteriorate faster than other surfaces and parts of <br />a building, necessitating regular maintenance and repair . <br />• 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 . <br />• Tuckpoint a chimney as soon as mortar joints begin to show evidence of deterioration . <br />• Cover a roof during masonry repairs to avoid damaging the covering . <br />• Keep flashings around a chimney/roof connection watertight. <br />Return to the Table of Contents <br />Chimneys