What is this and is it a problem?
5/11/2012 at 3:23:35 PM
Hello,
I was out in my backyard today and noticed this thing sticking out from the side. I have noticed this before and never questioned it until today because it looks like it has been pulled away from the house. I tried pushing it back into the wall but it wasn't moving at all.
I'm worried that because the hole in the wall is exposed water would be getting into the house.
My husband is away and I'm completely oblivious when it comes to these things however i would assume its connected to the furnace or the dryer...not sure?
I've attached a picture for you to get a better idea of what it is and if there is a problem that needs to be addressed. If this does need to be fixed, what should I do or what type of contractor should I call?
Any help you can provide would be fantastic!
5/11/2012 at 4:57:23 PM
Looks like an air vent for the furnace, how water vent, or other such vent. Maybe fresh air intake as well. The duct should be completely screwed and sealed to the brick to prevent water form running into your walls and ruining your interior walls and insulation.
Most construction people could screw it and reseal it for under $200. A DIY guy, $50.
If it is connected to an exhaust for gas, you MUST ensure it has not come apart inside the walls or you could be facing poisonous CO gases flooding your home that you cannot smell, you just wont wake up, ever.
Call in a heating and cooling expert and spend the few hundred to be certain.
Electrilight
5/11/2012 at 5:02:41 PM
Robert is correct. However it really looks like the vent for a gas fireplace. Either way it needs to be addressed.
5/13/2012 at 8:41:39 PM
Unless you like those creepy crawlies and rain getting in! ;)
5/14/2012 at 12:22:48 PM
Thanks for your responses. It seems that it is the vent for our gas fireplace and after further investigation by my husband it appears that this problem was caused by a restoration company issued to us last year via an insurance claim for a flood that occurred.
It seems that when they replaced our hardwood flooring they pushed our gas fireplace back a few inches which caused the vent to move away from the wall. We cannot move the fireplace back into place until the floor is cut.
I'm attempting to contact my insurance company and the company that did the repairs as they should be responsible for fixing this. My only concern is that this hole has been exposed to the elements for almost a year.
What type of damage could have occurred? Would it be best to get a third party to come in and inspect the possible damage?
5/14/2012 at 12:44:56 PM
Most, if any damage would be the journey of water (down and below that point). Animals and other insects could have made a home in there as well. Water could have made its way into the basement, but should not have caused costly damages.
You can be certain that whoever you call back in they will probably not admit to the damages caused by them. Best get in touch with your insurance company right away and notify them.
Chances are the fireplace will have to come back out to be repaired properly.
Electrilight
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