Superior Chimney has had some ‘interesting’ service calls already this season. Some of these calls could be avoided with the right information whether it be a gas or wood burning fireplace. So, to help our customers and hopefully soon to be customers, we thought we’d share some safety tips for using your chimney and fireplace.

A Few Avoids

1. Starting a Fire with Newspaper: Not just newspaper, but other types of paper products as well. Pieces of ignited paper can carry up the chimney and land on your roof or ignite other combustible parts of your home. Be sure to use small pieces of wood or proper fire starters to start the fire instead. If you have a gas fireplace, be sure it is fully turned off so gas doesn’t keep releasing into your home.
2. Wood burning Fireplaces need Seasoned Wood: One reason to use seasoned wood is because the more moist the wood, the more smoke and creosote it builds. When this builds in your chimney, it can become a hazard to your home. Creosote is quite flammable if not removed each year. That’s where a chimney sweep comes in. During the inspection and sweep, we’ll remove the creosote build up to ensure the chimney starts the season worthy of use.
3. Falling Asleep with the Fire Burning: If you are alone in the room, it is best to avoid falling asleep. I know, it is a dream come true to take a good nap with the fire a glow. In addition, if you are going to sleep for the night, be sure that you have put out the fire and the damper is open. This way it will help cool down the fireplace.
4. Renters: If you are a renter in the place you live, be sure to take care of the chimney and fireplace. If you just moved in, be sure to get it inspected with the Superior Chimney 14-point inspection. You don’t want to start something that you can’t stop. Check with the owner the last time it was tended to. If you see a few cobwebs, that will be a sure sign that it hasn’t been done in a while. Give us a call at 877-CHIM-FIX (877-244-6349) to get it inspected and swept.

A Few Other Safety Tips

Here are a few more tips that are always good practice. We want to be sure you and your family enjoy the fireplace and all of its warm offerings.

1. Keep a screen or glass doors in front of the fireplace. This can be used to keep the sparks and snapping of the fire where it belongs.. in the firebox and they are great decorative pieces as well.
2. Flammable items away from the fireplace. For the holidays, birthdays and crafts, keep these items away from the fireplace. These items are highly flammable. We certainly don’t want to ruin the occasion. Safety professionals say three feet away from the firebox.
3. Keep the flue or damper open when you start the fire.
4. Be sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors. You never know what may happen when you turn your back.
5. Lastly, know where the fire extinguisher is at. Keeping it in the kitchen, if close by, is a good spot. This way you can access it for both active rooms.

Be sure to use our safety tips for using your chimney. Contact Superior Chimney today at 877-244-6349.

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

A fire feature is the romantic or selling feature for your home. Basically, it’s your fireplace. However, let’s not belittle the benefits of the fire features as they bring warmth to a Chicagoland winter (and boy, do we need it), but it also brings mental health and physical well-being, especially during the crazy holiday season and the constant running around during non-holiday times.

Mental Health and the Fireplace

Studies have shown that fire features, your fireplace, whether it be gas or wood burning, shows that it can decrease a person’s blood pressure and encourages relaxation. You don’t need to be sitting at a beach in Hawaii to encourage relaxation, you can get it right in your home with the warmth of the fire, and the sound of the crackling wood.

But let’s not get stressed out if you feel a cold draft coming from the outside. That’s why a yearly chimney sweep/inspection is needed in order to help you maintain the comfort and relaxation of the fireplace. The chimney sweep/inspection, or commonly known as a chimney cleaning, by a certified chimney professional ensures that a 14-point inspection is completed – Critical aspects of the chimney and fireplace are inspected for safety. Remember, gas or wood burning, it is a fire in the middle of your living room, and in order to enjoy and lower your blood pressure, the system has to be worthy of containing the fire & its hot exhaust. That’s the benefit of what Superior Chimney brings to your home.

Physical Health and the Fireplace

There are even more studies that show that a fireplace, or the fire feature, also has physical health benefits as well. We all have some aches and pains, even kids that are playing sports. Something ends up hurting by the end of the day. That’s where the fireplace comes in… again!

We’re already cold, so the last thing we want to do is to place a cold compress on the already cold muscles. Sometimes what we need is to get warmed up. The fireplace warms up the body and allows you to carefully work out those tired muscles and aches and pains. Better yet, when will the next time be before your hands and feet are warm. Spring? The fireplace will help you work out those cold hands and feet so you can feel like yourself again… even for a little while. It certainly helps us to feel positive and make it through the day with something to look forward to again.  The warm fire in the fireplace.

Get the Fireplace Inspected for Stress Relief

There’s nothing like knowing the fireplace is worthy of use to make you feel relaxed and happy. Then when friends and family come for the visit, you’ll show them how it’s done. Rest and relax with good conversation. Be sure to contact Superior Chimney to ensure the safety of your home by contacting us at 877-244-6349.

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

As a responsible homeowner, you want your chimney to be as safe as possible, right? And it’s possible. You only need to consider these tips:

Clean the chimney regularly.

Maintaining a clean chimney is critical for optimal performance of the chimney and preventing chimney fires. One of the leading causes of chimney fires is the accumulation of creosote, a highly combustible material produced when wood is burned.

Regular chimney cleaning is necessary to eliminate this hazardous waste and maintain a safe environment in your house. You can clean the chimney yourself or hire the services of chimney cleaning services.

If you have the time and the necessary tools, here are some tips for cleaning your chimney you should follow:

Safety first: Before you begin cleaning your chimney, make sure you have the required safety equipment, such as goggles, gloves, and a dust mask. You should also wrap a drop cloth or sheet around the fireplace to catch any debris that falls during the cleaning process.

Choose the appropriate time: You should clean your chimney at the end of the heating season when the fireplace is not in use. This will give the chimney enough time to cool down before the next heating season begins.

Use the appropriate tools. A chimney brush is the most essential piece of equipment for cleaning. Choose a brush that fits the shape and size of your chimney flue. You may also require a chimney rod to guide the brush through the chimney.

Begin cleaning from the top of the chimney. Climb carefully onto the roof and locate the chimney cap. Remove the cap and use the chimney brush to remove any debris, soot, or creosote accumulation. Make sure you brush both sides of the flue thoroughly.

Clean the firebox: After cleaning the chimney from the top, make sure to clean the firebox as well. Using a tiny brush and dustpan, remove any ash or particles. You can also vacuum the firebox to clean it more thoroughly.

Dispose of debris: Once you’ve finished cleaning, make sure to properly dispose of the debris, which may still contain flammable creosote. Seal the waste in a plastic bag and dispose of it safely and appropriately.

Remember that chimney cleaning can be a nasty and potentially dangerous undertaking. If you’re hesitant or uncomfortable cleaning your chimney yourself, engage a professional chimney sweep who can ensure a complete and safe cleaning.

Inspect the chimney regularly.

Regular chimney inspections are critical to ensuring your chimney’s safety and function. While you may be meticulous in cleaning your chimney, there are hidden problems that only a professional chimney sweep can uncover, so you should hire one.

To be on the safe side, hire a chimney expert at least once a year, particularly before the colder months when you’ll be using your fireplace more often.

However, if you use your fireplace frequently or burn a lot of wood, it is best to schedule inspections more regularly, such as every six months.

A certified chimney sweep will inspect your chimney’s flue, liner, damper, crown, and cap for signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks, or deteriorating mortar.

They will also check for blockages or creosote buildup, which can lead to chimney fires. In some cases, they might use specialized tools, such as a video camera, to inspect hard-to-reach areas.

Investing in frequent chimney inspections allows you to discover and solve any possible concerns early on, saving you from costly repairs or, worse, the risk of fire. Remember that preventing problems is always preferable to dealing with them later.

Understand your chimney and how it works.

The more you know about your chimney and how it works, the better you will take care of it.

The chimney is made up of numerous main elements, each with a distinct purpose. The most important parts are:

The flue is the inner lining of the chimney that directs smoke and combustion gasses out of your home. It limits heat transfer to nearby combustible objects, thereby ensuring safety.

The damper, located slightly above the firebox, regulates airflow and avoids drafts when the fireplace is not in use. You can open or close it manually or by a mechanism, depending on the design.

The Crown: Located at the top of the chimney, the crown serves as a protective cap. It prevents water from entering the chimney structure and causing damage. An adequately maintained crown is critical to the longevity of your chimney.

The Cap: Located on top of the flue hole, the cap protects against rain, snow, debris, and even animals. It helps to prevent moisture problems, animal infestations, and obstructions.

Understanding the structure of your chimney allows you to identify and handle unique maintenance needs for each component. Recognizing the importance of these components will help you keep your chimney in good working order.

Be on the lookout for any signs of damage.

Regular maintenance and timely repairs are critical to maintaining your chimney in top condition. Recognizing chimney problems early on might assist in preventing additional deterioration and risks. Here are some frequent indicators to watch out for:

Check the exterior of your chimney for fractures or holes in the bricks or mortar. These can let water soak in and cause additional damage if you don’t fix them early enough.

Crumbling brickwork: If you observe bits of brick or masonry breaking off, it may signal underlying structural problems. It is critical to handle this immediately to avoid additional worsening.

Deteriorating mortar: Examine the mortar joints between the bricks. If you see crumbling or missing mortar, it indicates that the chimney needs to be repaired.

Water Damage: Look for water spots or discolorations on the walls or ceiling around the chimney. This could signal a leak in the chimney system that you must repair to avoid further harm.

Smoke or odor: If you smell smoke or foul aromas inside your home after using the fireplace, this could indicate a chimney obstruction or ventilation problems. You need to fix this promptly to avoid a fire hazard.

It’s crucial to note that chimney damage can increase over time if not corrected. If you see any of these indicators, you should swiftly contact a professional chimney sweep Bowie or skilled specialist for a comprehensive inspection and repairs.

The post Tricks to Ensure Your Chimney Is Safe first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

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

A certified Superior Chimney technician was on vacation in London. The technician had a conversation with the Royal London guard about Santa and all of their numerous chimneys about sweeping the chimney. Let’s find out who ended up being covered in soot…

Christmas Eve in London

The story begins on Christmas Eve in a rainy and foggy London, when Santa Claus was preparing to take his sleigh to deliver the presents. It looks just like it does in the movies. There are so many chimneys reaching for the sky, all in a row looking like the Royal London guards in the well-known Hampton Castle. 

Chimneys, hundreds of years old made of very old brick and mortar, line every room. Every year, Santa has to choose the correct chimney to go down and deliver the presents. If he chooses the wrong one, the guards will catch him, and throw him out. This is tight security. Certain chimneys are swept regularly and others are not, so if Santa chooses the wrong one, he will be covered in soot! That’s why sweeping chimneys is so important. 

Trouble in the Hampton Castle

The Hampton castle in London has many guards which have been stationed in the same posts for hundreds of years. Even with all this knowledge, each year, Santa lands on the Hampton Castle’s roof to deliver presents on Christmas Eve. In typical London fashion, it was a foggy night, with a light rain. Santa was instructed to choose the largest chimney in the center of the castle which leads right to the main Christmas tree. As you can imagine, there are many in the castle.

Santa remembered that it was the same chimney as last year. But because of the rain and fog, Santa went down the wrong chimney! To his surprise, he landed with a big bump into a dark and damp room. Not one candle or light was on. He felt the presence of a person in the room. Slowly stepping out of the chimney, he jumped in surprise to see two giant statues of guards. Santa looked down at his hands to find that he and his presents were covered in black soot. Santa knew he came down the wrong chimney and landed in the wrong room! 

Poor disoriented Santa heard some rustling, and right before him were two guards dressed in old fashioned clothing, holding flashlights and their swords. Covered in black soot, the guards couldn’t make out who Santa was! “Who is this person who fell through the chimney?” one guard commented sarcastically. Santa was taken by the elbows and removed promptly from the castle. The guards didn’t recognize Santa and promptly returned to their posts. 

What was It?

One guard mentioned he saw something in the fireplace. It was a small gift wrapped in red packaging with a beautiful green bow on top. Before he left the room with Santa, he took the box from the fireplace and placed it in his pocket, thinking he’d look at it later.

The guards kept talking about it. Something didn’t seem right. Finally, the two guards put the clues together and realized they kicked out Santa Claus! Worried, they grabbed the soot covered box and went right into the kitchen, hoping to win Santa’s favor with cookies and milk. They grabbed the goodies and ran into the cold winter air waving their arms. Santa was already on the roof (again), brushing himself off and wishing he had chosen the correct chimney, or at least a clean one. Hearing the guards, Santa stopped to talk to the guards and let them know all is good and safe! “We are sorry, we didn’t know who you were, covered in all that soot! We come with peace, cookies and milk! Please come back and deliver the presents!” A guard shouted.

Santa’s sharp nose caught a whiff of the cookies and milk, and saw the wrapped gift. “It’s time for a chimney sweep!” He laughed heartily and jumped off the sleigh, thanking the guards with a big hug.

The next morning, the guards in the Hampton castle awoke to an extra present…and a few cookie crumbs in the dirty fireplace.

Preparing for Santa This Year

Be sure to sweeping the chimney for Santa so he doesn’t get covered in all that black soot.  Call a Superior Chimney professional today at 877-244-6349.

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

The image of Santa Claus descending a chimney on Christmas Eve is one of the most iconic aspects of holiday folklore. But have you ever wondered why Santa chooses this unconventional method of entry? The tradition is steeped in historical and cultural significance, blending ancient myths, practical considerations, and a bit of whimsical imagination.

Ancient Hearth Traditions

The chimney’s association with Santa has its roots in the significance of the hearth in ancient cultures. For centuries, the hearth was the heart of the home, providing warmth, light, and a place for families to gather. Many European traditions regarded the hearth as a sacred space, often linked to deities or spirits. For example, in Norse mythology, the goddess Frigg was associated with the hearth and home, while in Roman mythology, Vesta was the goddess of the hearth.

Folklore often depicted household spirits or magical beings entering homes through the hearth to bestow blessings or mischief. These tales may have inspired the idea that a benevolent figure like Santa could enter through the chimney to deliver gifts and goodwill.

Saint Nicholas and Sinterklaas

The modern Santa Claus is heavily influenced by Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop known for his generosity and secret gift-giving. In Dutch tradition, Saint Nicholas evolved into Sinterklaas, who was said to deliver gifts to children by entering homes through chimneys. This practicality arose because chimneys were often the only accessible entry points in locked homes, especially in medieval times when front doors were fortified.

The tradition of Sinterklaas’s chimney descent was brought to America by Dutch settlers, where it merged with other cultural influences to shape the Santa Claus we know today.

“A Visit from St. Nicholas”

Clement Clarke Moore’s 1823 poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” (commonly known as “Twas the Night Before Christmas”) cemented the image of Santa coming down the chimney in popular culture. The poem describes Santa as a “jolly old elf” who enters homes through the chimney to leave toys in stockings hung by the fireplace. This depiction resonated with readers and helped solidify the chimney as Santa’s preferred route.

Symbolism and Practicality

The chimney also serves as a symbolic entry point, representing a magical and non-invasive way for Santa to enter homes. Unlike doors or windows, which might be locked or guarded, the chimney suggests a sense of trust and openness during the holiday season. It reinforces the idea that Santa’s visit is magical, leaving no trace of entry except the gifts and joy he brings.

From a practical standpoint, early depictions of Santa imagined him as small and elf-like, making the chimney a fitting route. Over time, even as Santa grew larger in cultural portrayals, the magic of the chimney remained intact, allowing him to navigate fireplaces of all sizes effortlessly.

Modern Interpretations

In today’s world, where many homes lack traditional chimneys, the story has adapted. Parents often explain that Santa uses magic to create a temporary chimney or enters through other means, ensuring his visit remains believable for children.

Conclusion

Santa’s journey down the chimney is a cherished part of Christmas lore that blends ancient traditions, practical storytelling, and festive imagination. It connects us to a time when the hearth was the center of the home and reminds us of the magic and generosity that define the holiday season. So, whether you have a chimney or not, the hearth remains a symbol of the season, and the spirit of Santa’s visit remains alive in the joy of giving and the wonder of Christmas.

Give us a call at Southern Chimneys today to make sure Santa has a safe and clean chimney this Christmas Eve!!

678.744.4046

[email protected]

Happy holidays!

The post Why Does Santa Come Down the Chimney? first appeared on Southern Chimneys.

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

As the holiday season draws near, many of us are looking forward to cozy nights by the fire, hot cocoa in hand, and the warmth of family gatherings. But before you light that first fire and get comfortable, it’s essential to make sure your chimney in the winter is in tip-top shape. A well-maintained chimney ensures safety, efficiency, and peace of mind, especially with the festive Christmas season ahead. 

At Best Chimney Services, we offer a range of services, for both residential and commercial chimneys, from inspections to chimney waterproofing. Our goal is to ensure your chimney is operating efficiently, so call us today to confirm your chimney is ready for the winter. In this post, we’ll outline the top five signs that your winter chimney needs attention, so you can avoid costly repairs or safety hazards.

1. Poor Draft or Smoky Fireplace

If you’ve noticed that your fireplace is smoking, it’s a clear sign your chimney needs a professional inspection. A poor draft could be caused by a blockage, such as creosote buildup or debris, or it could indicate an issue with the chimney’s structure. In either case, it’s critical to have your chimney inspected and cleaned before using it this Christmas.

2. Excessive Creosote Buildup

Creosote is a natural byproduct of burning wood, but over time, it can accumulate in the chimney flue and create a fire hazard. If you haven’t had your chimney swept in a while, excessive creosote buildup is a major concern. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends having your chimney cleaned at least once a year, and around the holidays is the perfect time to schedule a cleaning to ensure everything is ready for your holiday fires.

3. Visible Cracks or Damage to the Chimney Structure

During routine use, chimneys can develop cracks or damage, especially after a long period of neglect. If you notice cracks in the masonry, loose bricks, or signs of deterioration, don’t wait until the first chill of winter to act. Even minor cracks can lead to serious issues, such as gas leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning, making it crucial to have a professional inspect your chimney before you light your first Holiday fire.

4. A Strange or Unpleasant Odor

If your chimney smells musty, sour, or like burning wood even when the fireplace isn’t in use, something is amiss. A bad odor can be a sign of moisture buildup in the chimney, which can affect air quality in your home and lead to dangerous situations. A professional chimney inspection can determine the cause of the odor and help prevent further damage.

5. Birds or Animals in the Chimney

While you may associate chimney cleaning with Santa Claus, it’s also a common place for birds, squirrels, and other small animals to build nests or seek shelter. If you hear scurrying noises or see signs of animals entering your chimney, it’s time to act. Not only can this cause blockages, but animals can also damage your chimney liner. Scheduling a chimney inspection ensures that any nests are safely removed and that your chimney is secure before the holidays.

Prepare your Fireplace for a Long Season 

Now is the time to book a thorough inspection with our dedicated, experienced team. We’ll ensure your chimney is clean and ready for all your holiday festivities. Don’t wait—schedule your chimney inspection and ensure that your chimney this winter is in working order before the holiday season begins!

The post The Top 5 Signs Your Chimney in the Winter Needs Attention appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Chimneys are more than just the structures that carry smoke away from your fireplace. They are complex systems with several critical components that work together to ensure safe, efficient operation. Whether you’re a homeowner who uses a fireplace occasionally or regularly, understanding the parts of a chimney can help you maintain it better and avoid costly repairs down the line.

Routine inspections by a professional chimney service can help identify potential problems before they turn into expensive repairs or hazardous situations. At Best Chimney, our team of experts is ready to ensure your chimney is ready for use, efficient, and built to last for many years to come! Contact us today for your first inspection with us. In the meantime, learn about the basics of a chimney below!

1. Chimney Cap

One of the easiest parts of a chimney to remember is the chimney cap because it’s at the very top of the chimney and typically visible from the ground. It serves as the first line of defense against debris, rain, and animals that might try to enter your flue. The cap is designed to keep water out of the chimney and prevent leaves, twigs, or birds from clogging the system. A proper chimney cap can also improve draft and reduce the risk of downdrafts, which can bring smoke or gases back into your home. If you notice signs of aging, like your chimney cap rusting, give us a call!

2. Chimney Crown

Sitting just below the chimney cap is the chimney crown. It is the slab that covers the top of the chimney, helping to prevent water damage. The crown is usually made of concrete or mortar, and it directs water away from the chimney to prevent erosion or cracking. Over time, the crown can crack due to exposure to the elements, leading to water infiltration and structural issues.

3. Flue

The flue is the inner passageway of your chimney where the smoke, gases, and byproducts of combustion are funneled out of your home. It is typically made of clay, metal, or ceramic tiles. The flue needs to be kept clear of any obstructions, such as soot, creosote, or animal nests, as blockages can lead to dangerous situations like chimney fires or carbon monoxide spillage in your living space.

4. Mortar Joint

This is the space between two masonry units (like brick or clay tiles) in your chimney where mortar is applied. Mortar is a mixture of sand, water, and cement that bonds the tiles. The joint itself is the area where the mortar fills the gap between each unit, and it provides both structural strength and stability to the chimney.

5. Smoke Chamber

The smoke chamber is one of the parts of a chimney that is just above the firebox and below the flue. It serves as a transition zone, guiding smoke and gases from the fire into the flue for proper ventilation. The shape and size of the smoke chamber are crucial for the chimney’s ability to draft properly—helping the smoke rise and exit through the flue.

6. Chimney Flue Damper

The damper is a device located just above the firebox and is the mechanism used to control airflow into and out of the chimney. When closed, the damper discourages heat from escaping up the chimney when the fireplace is not in use. When open, it allows smoke and gases to exit the chimney. Regular inspection and proper use of the damper are important for energy efficiency and safety.

 

Book Your Chimney Inspection Today!

Your chimney is an integral part of your home’s safety and comfort. Keeping it in top condition doesn’t have to be difficult—regular inspections and cleanings will ensure that it functions safely and efficiently for years to come. Our experienced chimney technicians are ready to inspect every part of your system and make any necessary repairs. Don’t wait for a problem to arise—schedule your chimney inspection today!

The post Breaking Down the Parts of a Fireplace Chimney appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Did you know that in Europe, the person who does a chimney cleaning wears a full suit with a top hat? Yes, in this very year, chimney sweeps still dress like this! Over one hundred years ago, chimney sweeps were revered for their work. The legend has it that in 1066, King William was rescued from death by a chimney sweep. He invited the chimney sweep to his daughter’s wedding. Ever since, it’s considered good luck to have a chimney sweep at a special occasion or as a visitor in your home. Because of their lucky nature, they are permitted to wear top hats by the King, thus making the profession respectable in the eyes of society.

Additionally, we did not have the same safety measures as we do today, and the public knew this. Young children used to climb up the chimneys and push the creosote and soot out using special techniques that would leave them covered from head to toe in flammable black dust. As time passed, safer measures were taken in the 1700s to prevent people from getting hurt and inhaling the deadly creosote.

An Unexpected Visit from The Chimney Sweep

The story goes (and yes, it’s a real one) that a chimney sweep service in Europe was hired to inspect and conduct a chimney sweep in an old home that is now used as a preschool. The chimney sweep professional came in a black car, and had a helper with him. They were both dressed in all black suits with a top hat and a cane. Very formal. One of the teachers saw the chimney sweep professional, and being from America, she got scared. She never saw a chimney sweep professional before, nor heard of the myth. Scared of who they were, she ran for the phone and called the police, thinking that the professional sweeps were holding canes as a weapon! As they knocked on the door, a few teachers ran up behind her to stop her from calling the police, and explained that the strangely dressed men were chimney sweeps, and they were here to help! The sweeps thought the situation was amusing, and brought out candy for all of the children. The myth is true; chimney sweeps do bring good luck. Maybe not for the scared teacher, but definitely for the children!

Chimney Sweeps in Modern Day Chicagoland Area

Now, it’s true that chimney technicians may not dress in suits and top hats in America, but we do exactly the same job. Superior Chimney technicians are here to help with your chimney sweep and inspection. Your chimney has likely been closed up all summer, and now that the weather’s cold and a perfect reason to use your fireplace, it’s important to call us for a chimney sweep and 14-point inspection before you light it to accompany your holiday feasts. This is so important, especially if you haven’t gotten it inspected over the summer. The last thing you want is for your home to be filled with smoke, cold air, or even worse, a chimney fire! Call Superior Chimney professionals at 877-224-6349 for an inspection. Who knows, we might just show up on your doorstep wearing a suit and top hat…

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

As the weather becomes more frightful, be aware of the cold air in the chimney. Have you watched Charlie Brown’s holiday specials? They are classics! In the recent Thanksgiving show, Charlie Brown says, “Thanksgiving is not just about the turkey, it’s about the moments shared.” A meaningful quote that’s true to everyone, even during non-holidays. Sharing these valuable moments is accompanied with a warm hearth and tasty food. These beautiful holidays are not celebrated in other parts of the world, so remembering to create such moments is special.

So why have them compromised? Can you imagine, sitting around the warm fireplace with your family and friends, when all of a sudden, cold air comes rushing down your chimney?  Thanksgiving, Hannukah, Christmas are notoriously chilly ones, so prepping your chimney for our meaningful holidays should be at the top of your list this year. Most importantly, you don’t want the hot meal to get cold!

If you haven’t yet experienced or heard of cold air in the chimney, then you might have some questions. For example, how do you stop cold air from coming out of your chimney? Let’s answer a few commonly asked questions:

1. I never use my fireplace. Why is there cold air coming in?
   1. Just because you don’t use your fireplace doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t focus on its upkeep. Cold air drafts are caused by a reversal of pressure in your chimney flue. It can also be caused by strong winds that blow into your chimney from the lack of a chimney cap.
2. I have a gas fireplace and there’s cold air coming in! What should I do?
   1. Brick and mortar fireplaces are not the only ones that have problems with cold air in the chimney! Your gas fireplace is still connected to a flue that leads outside. Cold air comes in that way. Try closing your damper to keep the cold air out. Don’t have a damper? Be sure to contact us to get a complete inspection done.
3. My damper isn’t getting rid of all the cold air… Is this normal?
   1. It is normal! Dampers are not perfect. You’ll still notice small amounts of cold air coming into the home, especially with extra windy weather. The Chicagoland area is already experiencing these freezing winds…
4. How do I know it’s my chimney letting cold air in and not another problem?
   1. Stand by your fireplace. Do you feel any cold air coming out? That is a sign there’s a problem with the chimney air flow. Air naturally comes through your fireplace, but it shouldn’t be enough to make the room cold.
5. Can I prevent cold air from getting into my home?
   1. Yes. Check your damper and chimney cap. If you’re missing a damper, or if it’s broken, you will want to install one as soon as possible. We can even install one at the top of your chimney instead of traditionally, at the throat. A chimney cap can also help prevent cold air from getting in.

For Further Info…

Fixing cold air in the chimney can sometimes be easy. Calling a chimney professional such as Superior Chimney should always be your first step. A Superior Chimney technician is trained to identify and fix the problem. Keep your Holiday Season filled with warmth and happy memories this year, and get your chimney checked by your certified chimney experts. We are here to help, call Superior Chimney at 877-224-6349.

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

Now is the time to prepare your fireplace for the season ahead

As the holidays approach, there’s nothing like the joy of family finally gathering—sharing meals, laughter, and stories by a cozy fireplace. This cherished time of connection deserves to be free from stress, allowing you to focus on relaxation and making memories.

At Best Chimney, we know your fireplace is more than a heating source; it’s the heart of your home during these precious moments. To fully enjoy these special times without worry, it’s crucial to address potential risks that could compromise its safety and efficiency—starting with the hidden dangers of creosote buildup.

The Hidden Dangers of Creosote and Why Action Is Essential (read more)

Creosote buildup in your chimney isn’t just a minor issue—it’s a serious fire hazard. This flammable substance accumulates over time, posing risks to your family’s safety, your home’s structure, and your peace of mind.

Soot is a natural byproduct of burning wood, it becomes creosote when it combines with moisture and adheres to the flue walls.  When there’s buildup is when there’s a problem, and buildup can occur even in dry weather or during periods of disuse due to several factors related to how chimneys and combustion work:

Residual Moisture and Humidity

Even in dry weather, humidity in the air can interact with creosote already present in the chimney, causing it to become sticky and adhere more firmly to chimney walls. This can accelerate accumulation when the fireplace is eventually used again; bonding when the warm smoke heats up the flue lining.

Restricted Airflow

During periods of disuse, airflow through the chimney is reduced, especially if dampers are closed. This lack of ventilation allows small amounts of creosote left from prior use to remain trapped, creating a sticky surface that captures particles from even minimal combustion, such as pilot lights or occasional fires.

Incomplete Combustion Residue

If the fireplace was last used with damp wood, low-burning fires, or poor draft conditions, incomplete combustion would have left deposits of creosote. These deposits can continue to harden and accumulate, even without active use.

Environmental Debris

Chimneys can collect debris like leaves, dust, or animal nests during periods of disuse. This debris can mix with existing creosote or create blockages, reducing ventilation and exacerbating creosote formation when the fireplace is next used.

Temperature Fluctuations

In dry weather, temperature changes between day and night can create condensation inside the chimney. This condensation can interact with soot and creosote deposits, leading to a sticky buildup that worsens over time.

To prevent creosote buildup during dry weather or periods of inactivity:

• Inspect regularly to identify and remove any buildup or blockages.
• Install a chimney cap to keep out debris and animals.
• Schedule routine maintenance even if the fireplace hasn’t been used recently.

This proactive care ensures your chimney remains clean, efficient, and ready for use when needed.

The Cost of Ignoring Creosote

Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to:

• Fire Risk: Creosote is a leading cause of chimney fires, endangering your family and home.
• Health Concerns: Blockages can expose your household to carbon monoxide, a silent and deadly threat.
• Structural Damage: Corrosion from creosote can weaken your chimney, leading to expensive repairs.
• Decreased Home Value: A neglected fireplace becomes a liability rather than an asset.

Why Professional Chemical Cleans Matter

Our chemical cleaning service offers a complete solution to creosote buildup, providing:

• Thorough Cleaning: Advanced treatments effectively remove stubborn deposits.
• Prevention: Regular cleanings slow future buildup, saving you time and money.
• Improved Efficiency: A clean chimney maximizes heat output and minimizes fuel costs.
• Peace of Mind: Feel confident knowing your fireplace is safe and ready for use.

Accessible Safety for Every Family

We’re committed to making chimney care easy and affordable with flexible financing options and off-season discounts. A safe, efficient fireplace is just a call away.

Schedule your service today and enjoy worry-free, cozy moments this season.

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