Fall Winds & Rain Bring Out the Chimney & Fireplace Issues. Here are the Top 5.

The harshness of Fall is beginning to settle in. High winds, rain, dropping temperatures all have an effect on your chimney and fireplace. Before you get cozy by the fireplace, don’t delay any longer, get it cleaned and checked. Here are 5 Common Chimney Issues to watch for:

1. Crack in the Flue – chimney liners serve an important purpose. The chimney flue controls or contains the heat, gases and creosote – it is a firewall. The certified chimney technician will inspect the flue searching for cracks, deterioration or spalls. If you didn’t have the chimney flue replaced or have record of any repairs, have it checked before you go to use the fireplace.

2. Exterior Chimney Masonry – the mortar keeps the outside elements from coming into the home. When the mortar is compromised, meaning the mortar has deteriorated, cracks have formed and/or the bricks have begun to shift, rain water and/or cold air have a clear path inside. The technician will check the exterior chimney ensuring the integrity of the bricks and mortar.

3. Chimney Cap & Chimney Crown – The chimney cap and crown are located at the top of the chimney and is the first line of defense from weather, debris or furry critters. The technician will check to ensure the chimney cap is in place and will also check for any cracks or deterioration in the chimney crown.

4. Blockage in the Chimney – If you haven’t used your chimney or fireplace in a year or so, it’s best to get it checked. There could be a bird’s nest, leaves (especially from the high winds) and other debris. One of our jobs is to check and clear the passage to the outside.

5. Creosote – for those wood burning lovers, you know how important it is to check the fireplace and chimney for any creosote buildup. Creosote is a highly flammable material and can prevent proper venting of the chimney. When a Superior Chimney certified technician comes out, he’ll use professional tools that can remove creosote from the flue lining.

Now that you have the top 5 issues and reasons to have your chimney checked, get it cleaned and inspected by a Superior Chimney certified technician so you can enjoy the warmth of a fireplace for months to come with pace of mind. Click here to view the full 14-point inspection.

This post first appeared on https://www.superiorchimney.net