When you light fires in the hearth’s firebox, you want to enjoy the warm ambiance and pleasant aroma of firewood. Unfortunately, your house has an unpleasant smell that makes the house uncomfortable to live in and it’s not fun for anyone.

There are plenty of reasons your house will have an unpleasant smell. These reasons include:

Creosote accumulation

You’re probably aware that creosote poses a fire risk to your home, and you make it a point to get your chimney swept by an experienced chimney sweep before the fire-burning season each year to keep it safe.

Creosote also poses another risk: it can produce a strongly unpleasant odor that permeates from your chimney into your home. The creosote in your chimney, particularly during the humid summer months or when rainy weather causes water to enter your chimney, can fill your home with an unpleasant, barbecue or asphalt-like odor.

To get rid of this smell, you only need to hire a cleaning professional to clean the unit.

High moisture levels

A smell as a result of high moisture levels is difficult to define yet instantly identifiable. The musty odor of dank fireplace ash combined with humidity creates a weird, damp, smokey odor that lingers long after the fires have died down.

In most cases, humid, moist air can exacerbate any odor. Even still, chimney dampness has an old familiar fragrance. The musty odor, caused by unnoticed condensation, only worsens with time. Leaks are often always the source of the problem.

You should get this checked and treated right away to avoid breathing problems caused by mold or mildew in your house.

House airflow problems

Almost everyone knows the term “backdraft,” No, we don’t mean Ron Howard’s famous 1991 film, but rather what happens to fireplaces. Backdrafting is a major cause of foul-smelling chimneys.

A new roof, ventilation fans, new windows or skylights, and combustion appliances can all result in negative air pressure in your home. To help regulate the air pressure in your home, air can be drawn down the chimney and into it, carrying with it the scents that your chimney emits.

Cracking open a window, turning on a fan, closing your chimney’s damper, or closing your fireplace doors can all assist in preventing air from being drawn in through your chimney.

Dead animals and debris

There is never a shortage of critters attempting to enter your chimney. What animals leave behind after entering vents (such as chimney flues) is a nasty side effect. Assuming the animals make it out alive, they often don’t carry out their stuff.

Any sticks or leaves brought in by birds, bats, or other flying pests can become a blockage in your flue.

Larger animals, such as raccoons, squirrels, possums, cats, and small rodents like moles, can enter your chimney and make their home at the bottom.

Either they will rest on top of a closed chimney damper, or they will climb down (or fall) into your firebox and establish a cozy little home for themselves and their young.

Sometimes, these animals get stuck in your flue. The mother animals can occasionally enter and exit to excrete waste; however, the young animals are trapped in the chimney and must use their fireplace as a restroom, which makes the situation worse.

If you have determined you have animals in your chimney, you should get in touch with the relevant authorities in your area and ask them to come and remove these animals.

Tricks to get rid of the fireplace smells

Keep the chimney clean all the time

You shouldn’t wait until the day that a chimney cleaning professional comes to clean your unit. You should always exercise best practices that keep your unit clean at all times.

When you put out the fire, make sure that you sweep up all of the debris and ash; otherwise, it will leave a horrible smokey smell.

You should use a chimney cap or cover since it is an amazing or sensible way to ensure that nothing from the outside enters your property and also prevents moisture from entering.

Finally, maintain your chimney’s cracks to a minimum; otherwise, the chimney cap and other hacks will be ineffective.

Absorb the smells using charcoal.

A natural product that can absorb odors is charcoal. What you should do is move a bucket with charcoal briquettes and damp bits of old newspaper closer to the fireplace, then allow the charcoal to do the work.

Deodorize your chimney with vinegar.

Did you know vinegar is a powerful deodorizer and a natural way to get rid of the harsh soot and ash stink around your fireplace?

There are several ways to use vinegar for cleaning, and they all assist in controlling the foul odor of the fireplace, such as:

• A dish of vinegar will absorb all of the aromas emanating from a fireplace.
• Mix water and vinegar in a spray bottle and sprinkle the fireplace surround.
• Alternatively, spray it on a towel and wave it.
• If you choose to deodorize it with vinegar, make sure not to combine it with bleach or ammonia. In this circumstance, it emits a noxious gas that may be dangerous or even fatal.

Undertake monthly inspections

You should make it a habit to undertake a monthly inspection to eradicate odors from your fireplace. For example, if you performed all of the cleaning measures outlined above but the smell is still there, the issue is with airflow in your room.

That is why you must schedule a chimney inspection Elicott City. The inspection will uncover the actual problem with your unit.

You can do the inspection by yourself but for the best outcome, let a professional do it for you.

The post Reasons Your Chimney Is Smelling and What You Should Do About It first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

This post first appeared on https://www.firstclasschimneyservices.com

While you soak in the summer sun and enjoy outdoor cookouts, it’s easy to forget about your chimney. But it’s important that you take a moment to check for any chimney damage and address it before it worsens during the winter months. Regular maintenance and awareness can prevent costly repairs and ensure that your chimney is safe.

At Best Chimney Services, our top priority is making sure your chimney is safe. Our team of knowledgeable and personable technicians is dedicated to teaching our clients what to look out for and to lean on us when problems arise. Schedule your chimney inspection with us to make sure your chimney is in good condition for the upcoming seasons. In the meantime, here are some key signs of chimney damage to look out for this summer:

Cracked or Spalling Bricks

One of the most visible signs of chimney damage is cracked or spalling bricks. This occurs when water enters the bricks, freezes, and causes the surface to peel, flake, or pop out. Over time, this can lead to structural issues. If you notice any deterioration, it’s essential to address it promptly to prevent further damage.

Damaged Mortar Joints

Inspect the mortar joints between the bricks. Damaged mortar can allow water to seep into the chimney, leading to further erosion and potential structural instability. Repointing, or replacing the damaged mortar, is crucial to maintaining the chimney’s integrity.

White Staining (Efflorescence)

Are you noticing that your chimney is turning white? Well, that’s a sign of excess moisture inside your chimney. White staining, also known as efflorescence, appears as white, chalky residue on the exterior of the chimney. While it can be mostly cleaned off, it’s only temporary.  It’s important to address the underlying moisture problem to prevent it from returning or more severe damage developing.

Rust

Rust on the damper or firebox is a clear indication of excessive moisture within the chimney. Rust can cause the damper to operate improperly and may lead to further deterioration of metal components. If you spot rust, it’s a sign that your chimney needs professional attention.

Firebox Damage

Despite being the most visible, many homeowners forget to check on their firebox. We recommend inspecting the firebox for any cracks or signs of wear because damage in the firebox can reduce the efficiency of your fireplace and pose a safety risk. or Repairing the firebox can restore its function and ensure safe operation for the winter.

Unpleasant Odors

If you notice a strong, unpleasant odor coming from your chimney, then give us a call immediately. This could be a sign of creosote buildup, animal infestations, or moisture issues. If creosote buildup is the case, then this could put you at risk for a chimney fire. A professional chimney sweep can diagnose the cause and clean the chimney to eliminate the odor.

Book an Inspection with Best Chimney Services this Summer

Summer is the perfect time for chimney repairs and cleanings, so don’t wait to schedule an appointment! Regular chimney maintenance is essential for the safety of your chimney and your home, so stay vigilant and address problems before they can become severe. If you’ve noticed any of the chimney damages we mentioned above, don’t hesitate to give us a call so we can take care of the necessary repairs. Check out our blog post for more summer chimney problems to look out for.

The post Signs of Chimney Damage to Look Out for this Summer appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

As you work through your summer home maintenance to-do list, don’t forget about adding your chimney to that list! Many homeowners are unaware that summer is actually the perfect time to take care of chimney repairs and cleanings. Why is that, though? Well, the summer provides chimney professionals with the ideal conditions to ensure your chimney is ready for the colder seasons ahead.

At Best Chimney Services, we’re a team of licensed, experienced professionals who have extensive knowledge in both residential and commercial chimneys. Since 1989, we’ve been serving the Boston area to ensure homeowners receive top-quality and personalized service. Schedule an appointment with us today to ensure your chimney is in good condition! In the meantime, keep reading to learn why the summer is the perfect time for chimney maintenance.

Dry Weather Conditions

Unlike the dampness of Spring or Winter, dry weather allows for better adhesion of sealants and materials used in chimney repairs. It also reduces the risk of moisture seeping into the chimney structure during maintenance, which can cause damage over time. When you address chimney issues during the summer, you can lessen the chances of water damage and ensure your chimney is ready for the harsh fall and winter weather.

More Availability for Chimney Technicians

Summer is often a slower season for chimney technicians because homeowners are less likely to use their chimneys during the warmer months. This means that chimney technicians are more readily available and can schedule appointments more quickly in the summer, and therefore, are able to work around your schedule better. By scheduling chimney repairs and sweeping during the summer, you can avoid the rush of appointments that typically occur in the fall and winter, ensuring that your chimney receives prompt attention from qualified professionals. This is especially important if you cannot remember when your last chimney inspection was. Book an inspection before any problems can occur or grow!

Preparing for When You Use Your Heating System

While thinking ahead to the winter may seem like overpreparation, it’s actually never too early to prep your home for the cold, harsh weather months. Addressing chimney repairs and sweeping in the summer allows you to fix any problems before you begin relying on your fireplace and heating system again. This proactive approach ensures that your chimney is in optimal condition when you start using it regularly, while also reducing the risk of chimney fires, carbon monoxide leaks, and other safety hazards.

Preventative Maintenance

Regular chimney repairs and sweepings, as well as inspections, are essential for preventing chimney fires and maintaining indoor air quality. The buildup of creosote, a highly flammable substance that accumulates in chimneys over time, poses a significant chimney fire risk if not removed regularly. Ensuring that debris such as bird nests and leaves are removed as well is important because they can block chimney flues which leads to poor ventilation and potential carbon monoxide spillage. By scheduling chimney inspection and sweeping during the summer, you can address these issues proactively and ensure that your chimney is safe and functional year-round.

Call Best Chimney this Summer for Your Chimney Repairs and Cleaning

While it’s easy to let the summer get away from you with vacations and outdoor adventures, it’s important to take care of your chimney maintenance to prevent future, costly problems. Call us today if you think your chimney needs repair or inspection.

The post Why the Summer is the Perfect Time for Chimney Repairs and Cleaning appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Masonry chimneys, with their sturdy structure and traditional charm, often serve as homes to a variety of creatures, including the fascinating chimney swifts. However, as much as these aerial acrobats add to the ecological diversity, their presence can pose challenges for homeowners. In this article, we’ll explore the dynamics of chimney swifts nesting in masonry chimneys, the issues they bring, and responsible approaches to managing this unique situation.

Understanding Chimney Swifts:

Chimney swifts (Chaetura pelagica) are small, insectivorous birds known for their remarkable aerial abilities. With slender bodies and long, curved wings, they navigate the skies with precision, feeding on flying insects such as mosquitoes, flies, and beetles. Historically, they nested in large, hollow trees, but with the decline of such habitats, they have adapted to urban environments, utilizing chimneys as substitute roosting sites.

The Predicament of Masonry Chimneys:

While chimney swifts play a vital role in controlling insect populations, their choice of nesting sites can present challenges for homeowners. Masonry chimneys provide ideal roosting spaces due to their vertical shafts resembling natural hollows. However, the presence of swifts brings with it several concerns, including odor, noise, and potential health risks associated with their droppings.

Addressing Concerns and Legal Implications:

It’s essential for homeowners to understand that chimney swifts are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This means that disturbing or removing them without proper authorization can lead to significant fines and even criminal charges. Therefore, proactive measures are necessary to mitigate any issues arising from their presence in chimneys.

Responsible Management Strategies:

When chimney swifts are discovered nesting in masonry chimneys, it’s crucial to adopt humane and legal approaches to address the situation. One such strategy is to close the damper to prevent the birds from entering the living space while allowing them to continue their nesting cycle undisturbed. Additionally, scheduling the installation of properly fitting custom masonry chimney cap can deter/prevent swifts from re-entering the chimney after migration.

The Importance of Timing:

Timing plays a critical role in managing chimney swifts. Since these birds are migratory, they typically depart for Central and South America in the fall. Therefore, scheduling chimney cleaning and cap installation for this period ensures minimal disruption to both the birds and homeowners. By waiting until the swifts have migrated, homeowners can address chimney maintenance needs without interfering with the birds’ natural behaviors.

Conclusion:

Chimney swifts nesting in masonry chimneys present a unique challenge for homeowners, balancing conservation efforts with practical concerns. While their presence may initially raise issues such as odor and noise, it’s important to approach the situation with understanding and responsibility. By adhering to legal regulations, implementing humane mitigation strategies, and scheduling maintenance tasks appropriately, homeowners can coexist with chimney swifts while ensuring the safety and functionality of their chimneys. Through thoughtful management, we can appreciate the beauty of these remarkable birds while maintaining the integrity of our homes.

The post Fascinating Chimney Swifts and your home in 2024 first appeared on Southern Chimneys.

This post first appeared on https://southernchimneys.com

Chimney rebuilds are necessary when the exterior chimney is beyond repair. Take a look at the pictures included. When there’s a pile of bricks that doesn’t even look like a chimney, that will be a chimney rebuild. If you see large holes or gaps in the structure, that will also be a chimney rebuild. But sometimes when you look at the chimney and you say, “the top is bad, but how about the bottom part of the chimney” as you see in the picture, that will need an evaluation. That will be the difference between a chimney rebuild and a partial chimney rebuild.

Other Structural Mishaps that are Hard to Tell

Take a walk around your neighborhood and look at the various chimney conditions. Do you see a chimney that is leaning to one side? If it is no longer standing straight and tall, this may need a complete chimney rebuild or maybe a partial rebuild. The best way to know, is to have a certified chimney technician evaluate the structure to determine if some of the chimney can be saved.

Another case is when there are large visible cracks in the bricks of the chimney. The cracks can be very big, as in the picture, or maybe not as wide but the structure has been like this for a longer period of time. Again, it is one of those situations where the professional masonry technician will need to evaluate the integrity of the structure. Can any of it be saved or does it require a complete rebuild of the chimney.

What is a Partial Rebuild?

A partial chimney rebuild means that not every part of the chimney will need to be torn down and replaced. As in the cases stated above, if the chimney shows damage, beyond repair, in some parts but not in others, then the masonry professional will only replace the part that needs to be rebuilt and keep the rest in place.

The masonry professional will also assess the metal parts of the chimney, evaluating if it has been rusted out and needs to be replaced. For a full determination of the extent of the damage, an inspection to the chimney will help in the process.

Avoiding Damage in the Future

Prevent chimney rebuilds moving forward by scheduling an annual chimney inspection. If you use your fireplace more often, then a more frequent inspection might be in order. This will help to identify problems before they get out of hand and the cost of repairs increase. But once you do get the chimney repaired or rebuilt, it is recommended to get a chimney waterproofing solution applied or sprayed onto the chimney. Superior Chimney uses Chimney Saver, which lasts for years. It repels water keeping it out of the mortar and bricks which are porous materials and can absorb water. This process can speed up the deterioration process causing repairs to creep up again, especially in the freeze and thaw cycles of winter! Now that you’re back from your walk around the neighborhood, give us a call and let’s get that chimney inspected!

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

Now that it’s summer, this is a perfect time to get the furnace flue inspection done. Furnace flues play an important role in the operation of your home’s heating system. Without proper care, it can lead to serious hazards, meaning build up and the release of carbon monoxide. Let’s take a look at the importance of scheduling regular furnace flue inspections with a Superior Chimney Certified Technician.

Why are Furnace Flue Inspections Important?

Furnace flue inspections are important as it is the escape route for harmful byproducts from combustion from inside the home furnace. If the byproducts are not safely removed from the home through the furnace flue, then you can have buildup or backup of carbon monoxide.

Furnace Flue inspections are done by trained, certified professionals who specialize in the maintenance and sweeping of chimney systems. While many homeowners assume that their furnace flue is maintained by a heating and air company, the reality is that it is the responsibility of the homeowner to ensure that their furnace flue is in good working condition.

What are the Hazards of an Uninspected Furnace Flues?

Furnace flues that have not been inspected can lead to several problems that can pose serious risks to you and your home. One of the most common issues is blockage, which prevents gases from properly exiting the furnace flue and can result in a blowback of carbon monoxide and deposits into your home. This can create a mess and it can also increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. As you may know, carbon monoxide is an odorless, tasteless, and invisible gas that can be deadly if not detected in time.

The Importance of Proper Venting

Another important aspect of furnace flue inspection is ensuring there is a clear exit for the venting system. The size of the flue plays an important role in the safe operation of your furnace, as incorrect sizing can lead to excess moisture and condensate in the combustion gases. Moisture is the biggest enemy of a chimney and furnace flue system, as it causes deterioration and blockages that pose serious risks.

Best Times to Schedule a Furnace Flue Inspection Now that warm weather is here and the furnace and fireplace is quiet, now is the perfect time to schedule a furnace flue inspection… Only the water heater is venting into the flue (year round).  What if you are getting a new furnace for the home? Yes, you will need to get the furnace flue inspection completed to ensure clean, properly sized efficient operation.

Schedule up your furnace flue inspection today to be ready when the cold hits us… as fast as the 90 degree days just did.

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

A clogged chimney can quickly become a serious health and safety risk for your family and home, so annual chimney inspections and cleaning by chimney cleaning services providers is essential.

How can you tell that your chimney is blocked? Here are some of the warning indications of a flue obstruction:

• Your CO detector raises an alarm.
• The fireplace fills with smoke.
• Difficulties starting a fire
• Fire burns fast
• Black, tarry flakes within the flue.
• Strange odor in the firebox

Another indicator of a clogged chimney is the presence of hot embers, sparks, or heavy black smoke. This hazardous situation demands prompt attention from a skilled chimney technician. The professional will come in handy in preventing a chimney fire from coming about.

Pay special attention to your outdoor chimneys during the winter. A substantial frost or ice buildup could indicate an obstruction, as moisture in a clogged chimney can freeze.

Make sure there are no visible symptoms of obstructions or damage to the chimney’s architecture. It may include cracks and loose bricks, contributing to more blockages.

During the winter, take extra precautions to protect your chimney. There is a potential that the moisture can become stopped and freeze, resulting in a noticeable buildup of ice or frost, which could indicate a blockage.

You should note any evident damage to the chimney’s construction, such as cracks or loose bricks, because they might cause blockages and jeopardize the chimney’s structural integrity.

What can cause a chimney blockage?

Animals inside the chimney

Animals will not only clog a chimney but also emit a bad stench. Birds, raccoons, and bugs are among the most common offenders for freeloading off your fireplace unit.

They will build a nest inside the unit when hunting for a home. When they accomplish this, they will begin to store their food inside, resulting in numerous types of droppings lining the inside of the chimney.

Creosote buildup

Almost anything can accumulate inside your chimney. Creosote is one of the most bothersome substances. This is produced when you burn untreated wood inside your fireplace. These particles will then ascend via the chimney and clump together along the edges of your flue.

Natural causes

Consider when a storm or severe winds pass across your neighborhood. Your lawn chairs wind up three doors down, and you have a yard of leaves to rake.

What you don’t consider is how the airborne particles can become stuck inside your chimney. This is frequently the same debris in your gutters, including garbage, leaves, and twigs.

What can go wrong when your chimney is blocked?

When your chimney becomes obstructed, air cannot move through efficiently. This creates a draft, trapping heat and smoke within the home.

When heat becomes trapped and interacts with the blockage, it might produce sparks that ignite the chimney or flue fire.

This also permits dangerous gases, such as carbon monoxide, to become trapped within your home.

CO is odorless and colorless, so you won’t know how much is around you until you start to feel the symptoms.

When you breathe it in, it begins to combat oxygen levels in your bloodstream. Doctors equate CO poisoning symptoms to those of the flu without a temperature.

If you consume even a small amount, you will experience headaches, nausea, and balance and visual issues.

If you breathe in too much, it can impair your breathing and necessitate an oxygen mask and a brief hospital stay.

If you believe that the location you are in is experiencing this problem, flee immediately. Don’t bother about turning off the unit. Even if you can do so, the room will take a long time to air out, so you are better off just staying outside.

To avoid being caught by surprise, install CO alarms inside their houses to alert them when levels go too high.

You should use these in conjunction with smoke detectors. You should distribute them throughout the floor layout and on several floors if the house has more than one storey.

You also should have a chimney cap fitted to protect the open hole at the top. A chimney cap will serve a variety of purposes.

Chimneys are extremely sensitive to mold, so keeping water out of them is essential.

If your chimney catches fire, a chimney cover will help keep as many sparks as possible from spreading to neighboring objects.

How to remove a chimney blockage

Hiring a chimney sweep Bowie is the most effective approach to clear a blockage. You should have at least one per year, but having two is a good idea if you use your chimney frequently during the season.

One should be done before the burning season to have a fresh start, but the second should be done if there is a lot of accumulation after winter.

Sweeps are typically slow at this period and may include a discount. To be prepared for their arrival, make sure all furniture has been moved away from the unit and that you have not lit a fire in at least 24 hours to allow it to cool.

Safety comes first when removing the blockage. A blocked or obstructed chimney can allow hazardous gasses, such as carbon monoxide, to accumulate in your home.

Because they are colorless and odorless, these gases are difficult to identify without specialized equipment.

Professionals have the knowledge and resources necessary to identify and manage these issues, ensuring the safety of your loved ones in your home.

Attempting to clear a chimney obstruction without the necessary skills and supplies might be hazardous.

This is because getting up on the roof or inside the chimney flue without sufficient safety precautions could result in an accident or injury.

You should hire professional experts with the necessary training to manage these circumstances effectively, decreasing the risks associated.

The post How to Tell If a Chimney Is Blocked first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

This post first appeared on https://www.firstclasschimneyservices.com

A chimney can be an obvious place where a chimney leak can occur. The chimney extends to the sky, many times as the highest point of your home. Not to mention, there’s a hole at the top that needs to be covered, and cement and bricks that are porous! It’s pretty obvious that chimney leaks can occur all year round.

What are some signs of a chimney leak?

• A pool of a water in the fireplace
• White discoloration on the outside of your chimney
• Musty odors coming from the chimney
• Dampness in your home
• The dripping sound of water
• Stains on the ceiling near the fireplace

A not so obvious or visual reason for a chimney leak include deterioration on the outside of your chimney. Do you notice any of these indicators of a chimney leak in your home? If your answer is yes, call Superior Chimney as soon as possible! As summer begins in the Chicagoland area, we will only experience more rain storms, and the damage from water leaks will only get worse with time. 

5 Reason for a Chimney Leak

1. You don’t have a chimney cap, or it’s broken. We talked a lot about chimney caps in our past blogs. A chimney needs a cap for the same reasons a house needs a roof!  They’re so important in keeping your chimney in tip-top shape. A chimney cap keeps most of the rainwater from falling into the flue, and pooling in the fireplace. A damaged chimney cap will cause water to leak into your home.
2. Cracks in the chimney crown. A chimney crown is the cement part of your chimney that keeps water from dripping onto the bricks, stone or siding. If the cracks in the chimney crown are big enough, water will drip through. Cracking on the chimney crown is not uncommon, but it’s important to keep up with the maintenance of repairing them. Hairline cracks are bad enough, the bigger the cracks get, the worse the leaking!
3. Condensation. If you’ve already replaced your chimney cap and crown and still suspect a chimney leak, then condensation might be your problem. There may be a structural problem with your chimney, and a professional will have to check to make sure warm gasses are not becoming stuck in the flue, and creating condensation leaks.
4. Gaps in the flashing. Flashings seal the base of your chimney. They’re meant to stop water from getting into your home. But, the flashing doesn’t last forever. If there’s a weathered seal, or the flashing is lifting up, water will make its way in.
5. Masonry Cracks. This is a common reason for a chimney leak. Cracks in masonry are caused by the freeze thaw cycle in fall, winter and spring. Water is absorbed in the masonry and creates cracks. The cracks become bigger over time, and eventually will lead to chimney leaks.

Repairing a Chimney Leak

Worried you have a chimney leak? Maybe you noticed something in your home. Superior Chimney certified technicians can help. Our chimney inspections are thorough and professionally presented. Call us to book an inspection at 877-244-6349.

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

Worried about removing the fireplace smell this year? Once you’ve finished with scrubbing your home from top to bottom, you might have noticed a strange smell still coming from around your fireplace. It can be a strong or subtle odor that seems impossible to get rid of! Maybe you’ve tried to put some baking powder and vinegar in the fireplace, or double dosed the fireplace with cleaning liquids, yet the smell still won’t go away. Well, recently in the Chicagoland area, we’ve had plenty of humid weather. Humid weather doesn’t help with the fireplace smell. The more rain and water the chimney is exposed to, the more intense the smell becomes. So, is it possible to remove the fireplace smell, even with this humid weather?

A Simple Answer: Yes!

The answer is yes! It’s entirely possible to remove the fireplace smell year round, even in humid, hot weather. Creosote is a dark, oily substance that forms when wood is burned. It is made up of various chemicals that give it a distinct, pungent smell. When creosote builds up in a chimney or fireplace, it can create a strong, unpleasant odor that can stick around in your home. A simple douse down of cleaning liquids like bleach or vinegar and baking powder won’t do the trick, because creosote is built up in the smoke chamber & chimney flue, not the fireplace firebox. The chimney flue is a long exhaust flue that connects the fireplace to the outside, removing smoke and harmful chemicals from your home. Creosote naturally builds up over the course of winter time. The more you use your chimney, the more creosote builds up. As the air from the outside moves down through the flue, it pushes down the musty smell of creosote into your home. 

Solving A Smelly Home

Luckily, our certified chimney technicians can help remove the creosote from the flue. Chimney professionals can check for pressure problems and cracks in the masonry around the flue, to make sure the creosote doesn’t get stuck in there. Did you know that if the creosote gets stuck in the cracks of your chimney, you might experience a chimney fire? Creosote does not only smell bad, but is also flammable. It’s really important to get your chimney checked by a certified technician. 

Think You Can Spot All the Cracks?

Cleaning your chimney is a bit like playing Eye-Spy, but with a twist. Chimney technicians at Superior Chimney don’t recommend you to clean the creosote on your own. If you miss a crack, the smelly creosote will become a danger when you light up your fireplace again. Take caution when checking your chimney flue for creosote buildup. Or, simply call a certified chimney professional for an inspection.

At Superior Chimney, we specialize in identifying cracks in your chimney, malfunctioning parts, or further damages. With a proper chimney flue and fireplace sweep and inspection, the smell of creosote can fade away from your home, and leave you with how your home should be smelling; like cleaning liquid and air freshener!

Call us at Superior Chimney today for an appointment at 877-244-6349 for an inspection to find out how to be rid of fireplace smells.

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

Exactly what is going on? My chimney seems to be leaning. I’ve had no weather events to cause such a lean. So, what is going on?

Most commonly it is due to the foundation, but let’s discuss other common reasons.

• Your chimney is poorly constructed. Not all companies are created equal, unfortunately.
• Age has taken over and the masonry has started to break down.
• Newer homes have cement chimney footings and are stronger. If you own an older home, you may have footings that cannot support the chimney. The weight of a chimney may be causing the lean.
• The size of the chimney footing may not be appropriately sized to support the chimney in your home. Often the material used is not the best quality. This can cause faulty footings.
• Soil erosion may be a cause of a footing being displaced, causing a lean to your chimney.
• Proper drainage can be a cause as well. If you have water that stands at the footing it can cause the soil to move.  

We talked about the causes of a leaning chimney. Now let us discuss the signs that you need to look for.

What Are The Signs Of A Leaning Chimney?

You can see that the chimney is leaning. If you notice the chimney leaning it is time to place that call to Northeastern Chimney Inc.

You may see water or condensation in your firebox. Or you may see it on the ceiling around your chimney. These are signs that you have an issue with water, and it may be contributing to a leaning chimney.

If you see that the smoke is not exiting the chimney as it used to. You may have a leaning chimney. Try to make all the adjustments that are needed to correct this. Be sure you are burning dry wood, and you have proper ventilation. Also, try warming the chimney before lighting a fire. If you have tried all the tricks to get the smoke to exit and are still having no luck. Call us for an inspection. We can give you answers.

You are starting to notice crumbling bricks and mortar. As a leaning chimney adjusts, it moves ever so slightly. This causes the bricks to shift and the mortar to become loose. 

Do you believe that your chimney is leaning?

Your best attack would be to call Northeastern Chimney Inc. for a full inspection. You don’t want something like a leaning chimney to go for too long. Once you start to see changes, it does not mean that the issues have just begun. 

Schedule your inspection or cleaning soon by calling Northeastern Chimney Inc. at 860-233-5770. We will be able to book an appointment that works with your schedule. We have all the equipment needed for all sorts of chimneys.

Our certified chimney technicians provide quality chimney sweep services including chimney repairs, chimney cleaning, and chimney rebuilding for residents in West Hartford, East Windsor, Farmington, Glastonbury, Wethersfield, Marlborough, Cromwell, and the surrounding Central Connecticut area.

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