Winter in New Hampshire puts chimneys through a lot. Bitter cold, heavy snow, salt air on the NH coast, and constant freezing and thawing all take a toll. Every year, we help homeowners across Portsmouth, Dover, Rochester, and Somersworth fix chimney problems that have been quietly building all season long. The good news is that most winter chimney issues are completely preventable with the right maintenance and timing. Below are the most common chimney repairs we see each winter in NH, what causes them, and what you can do to protect your home before the damage sets in. If you’re already noticing problems, our team provides complete chimney repair in NH and can help you get ahead of larger issues.
1. Cracked Chimney Crowns
(The First Place Winter Damage Starts) Your chimney crown is the concrete “roof” that keeps water out. When temperatures bounce between freezing and thawing (which happens a lot in New Hampshire), tiny cracks expand fast.
Why it matters:
Once water gets in, it can travel down into the bricks, mortar, or even your liner.
Early signs:
• Hairline cracks on top
• Water in the firebox
• Ice forming around the top of the chimney
Prevent it:
• Seal the crown before winter
• Install a quality chimney cap
• Schedule an annual chimney cleaning so issues are caught early
2. Loose or Missing Chimney Caps (Snow + Wind = Trouble) NH winters can be rough on chimney caps.
Strong coastal wind gusts, heavy snow, and ice are the biggest reasons caps come loose.
Why it matters:
A missing cap allows rain, snow, animals, and debris to fall directly into your chimney. That leads to fast deterioration and expensive repairs.
Prevent it:
• Install a stainless steel cap
• Have the cap inspected yearly
• Replace warped or bent screens If your cap is missing or damaged, we can replace it during any chimney repair service.
3. Freeze–Thaw Masonry Damage (The Most Common Winter Issue)
Brick and mortar naturally absorb moisture. When that moisture freezes, it expands and slowly breaks the masonry apart. This is one of the top reasons NH homeowners need chimney repairs in the winter.
Typical signs:
• Flaking bricks
• White staining (efflorescence)
• Gaps in mortar joints
• Pieces of mortar or brick on the ground
Prevent it:
• Waterproof the masonry
• Repair cracks before snow season
• Keep snow from sitting against the chimney
• Add a cricket to divert water if needed If your chimney already shows surface damage, a professional chimney repair is the safest route.
4. Cracked or Damaged Flue Liners (Silent but Serious)
Clay flue liners are tough, but winter puts them under a lot of stress. Cold temperatures cause the liner to contract, hot fires make it expand, and moisture freezes inside small imperfections.
Signs of liner damage:
• Bits of clay in your firebox
• Excess smoke
• Strange odors when not in use
• Difficulty drafting Prevent it:
• Only burn seasoned wood
• Avoid sudden high-heat fires
• Keep the chimney dry with a good cap
• Get your flue inspected during your yearly chimney cleaning
5. Wood Stove Drafting Issues (Very Common in NH Homes)
New Hampshire has tons of older homes, and many rely on wood stoves. Winter creates the perfect storm for drafting issues, especially in Seacoast towns where wind patterns are stronger.
What causes the problem:
• Cold air blocking the flue
• Negative pressure inside the home
• Creosote buildup
• Improper venting Prevent it:
• Warm the flue before starting a fire
• Make sure your stove meets NH installation standards
• Keep your chimney cleaned
• Have the stove piping inspected If your stove is hard to light or keeps smoking back into your home, our team can help with wood stove installation in NH or adjust your current setup for better draft.
6. Chimney Leaks From Snow and Ice (Often Misdiagnosed as Roof Leaks)
People are surprised how often chimney leaks show up in mid-winter. Snow melts, refreezes, pushes into tiny gaps, and makes its way into the attic or walls.
Most common causes:
• Cracked flashing
• Damaged mortar joints
• A missing chimney cap
• Poor roof-to-chimney sealing
Warning signs:
• Ceiling stains
• Water near the fireplace
• Musty smells in the attic
• Damp walls around the chimney If you suspect a leak, call right away. Water damage spreads quickly and often needs chimney repair services before the next freeze.
How NH Homeowners Can Protect Their Chimney All Winter
If you want to keep your chimney strong through every snowstorm, here are the top steps:
• Get your chimney cleaned yearly
• Repair cracks before freezing weather
• Install a quality chimney cap
• Waterproof exterior masonry
• Keep snow from piling around the chimney
• Book a mid-season check if you burn wood daily
For fast help, visit our contact page to schedule service. Serving NH’s Seacoast With Reliable Winter Chimney Repairs Frechette Chimney Sweeping serves homeowners across Portsmouth, Dover, Rochester, Somersworth, South Berwick, and the surrounding NH Seacoast. New England winter weather can be tough on chimneys, but early maintenance and fast repairs can make all the difference. To learn more about our services or book an inspection, visit our homepage or call anytime.
Frechette Chimney Sweeping
1550 Main St, Sanford, ME 04073
(207) 608-0564
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