Fireweed atop a chimney

• Posted on August 1, 2016
• by mikew
• in Fix It & Use It
• No Comments.

Here’s a fascinating little picture from a recent home inspection. Interestingly, I found fireweed growing out of a crack in a chimney. It was a solitary piece of life higher than any point on the house. I’ve heard these weeds are named after their ability to be one of the first things to grow after a forest fire. These are also a favorite of honey bees and a beautiful wild flower.

I did not have the heart to pull this little weed out. But I did recommend my client remove this weed and seal the crack in the chimney cap to protect the chimney from moisture penetration and further deterioration of the brick materials. Brick, concrete and mortar can last a long time. Our keeping them free from moss and vegetation and moisture will prolong their life.