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.

The post December News: Make This Holiday Season Safe, Warm, and Memorable appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Winter is here. People with fireplaces are looking forward to cozy nights by the fire. While fireplaces give warmth and an ambiance you can’t get with other heating systems, they can be dangerous. Statistics suggest there are over 25,000 chimney fires annually, many of them going undetected. However, with proper maintenance and precautions, you can prevent a disaster. Here’s how to protect your home and family against chimney fires.

What Causes Chimney Fires?

Most chimney fires happen because of creosote buildup. Creosote is a byproduct of burning wood. It starts as a powder and builds to a thick, sticky coating that’s extremely flammable. Creosote builds up in the flue over time, especially if you burn the wrong wood. Chimney fires range from a slow smoldering burn to an explosive blaze that could spread to the entire house.

Tips for Preventing Chimney Fires

Schedule a Professional Inspection and Cleaning

The most important thing you can do to keep your home and family safe is to hire a professional chimney sweep to clean and inspect your chimney. Pros can identify potential problems, such as creosote buildup and structural damage, that could put you at risk of a fire.

Pros have the proper tools to clean the flue of creosote and obstructions that can lead to a disaster.

Burn the Right Kind of Wood

Seasoned firewood is the best to burn in your fireplace. Oak, hickory, or maple, for example, are dense and, when properly dried, provide long-lasting heat. Softwoods like pine can be good for kindling but are less efficient for heating.

Green or unseasoned firewood contains too much moisture, creating more smoke and faster creosote buildup. As mentioned, creosote is dangerous and a major cause of chimney fires. Always burn wood that’s been seasoned for at least six months to ensure high heat output and less smoke.

Also, don’t burn trash in the fireplace. Trash, painted, or stained wood can release toxins and leave a residue in the flue.

Install a Chimney Cap

Chimney caps are inexpensive but vital components. They prevent leaves, debris, and animals from getting in and causing blockages. During a professional inspection, ask the chimney technician to check the cap for damage and fit.

Use the Fireplace Correctly

Using the fireplace correctly can significantly reduce the chance of a fire.

Build small fires. Overloading a fireplace with too much wood creates a dramatic fire but produces more smoke and creosote. Always ensure the damper is open before lighting a fire to create a good draft and prevent smoke from flowing back into the room. Lastly, consider using a fireplace screen to prevent sparks and embers from flickering into the room and causing a fire.

Clear the Fireplace and Chimney Area

Keep a “safe zone” around the fireplace by keeping flammable materials, like furniture, rugs, toys, and curtains, at least three feet away. Also, never leave the fire unattended. An errant spark can become a disaster in a few minutes.

Watch for Warning Signs

These warning signs indicate a potential problem with the chimney:

• If your fireplace produces excessive smoke, it could be due to a blockage or insufficient airflow.
• A roaring or rumbling noise from the chimney could indicate a fire.
• A strong, ashy odor could mean you have a dangerous creosote buildup.

Install Smoke Detectors

The National Fire Protection Association released a study showing that “nearly three out of five home fire deaths were caused by fires in properties with no smoke alarms or with smoke alarms that failed to operate.”

Like a chimney cap, smoke detectors are inexpensive but essential for people who use a fireplace.

Upgrade the Chimney Liner

Chimney liners are protective barriers between the house and the chimney’s hot gases. If the liner is old, cracked, or damaged, it could put your home at risk. Modern stainless steel or clay liners are more efficient and may be required by your local building codes.

Preventing chimney fires is easy and inexpensive. A well-cleaned and maintained chimney is a safe chimney.

Call Northeastern Chimney Inc

to get your chimney winter-ready. We’re members of the National Chimney Sweep Guild and the Chimney Safety Institute of America. We proudly serve residents throughout Hartford, Tolland, and Litchfield County.

The post How To Prevent A Chimney Fire This Winter appeared first on .

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

It’s vital that you clean and inspect your chimney regularly. The reason for this is that regular chimney inspection and cleaning ensures that your chimney is clean at all times. A clean chimney also gives you peace of mind as you know that there are minimal things that can go wrong with your unit.

For you to keep your chimney clean, there are a number of things you should know. These things include:

Be on the lookout for chimney scams.

When budgeting for an annual chimney cleaning and inspection, don’t make the mistake of looking for the lowest possible price. Chimney sweeping is an unregulated activity; therefore, anyone can enter it, regardless of expertise, skills, or equipment.

It is common for scammers to take advantage of the lack of industry restrictions. Some will coerce homeowners into paying exorbitant fees to address nonexistent issues.

Others will accept cash for a pricey repair that may or may not be required, then disappear without completing the work. The worst-case scenario is when scammers who are unfamiliar with chimney sweeping actually execute the service, giving homeowners false hope that their system is in good working order when it is not.

Chimney cleaning and maintenance can be the difference between life and death; thus, it should not be left to inexperienced workers.

Due to this, you should be ultra-cautious when hiring a cleaning professional. To be on the safe side, only work with those certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) or any other relevant body. They will be a little expensive than the uncertified ones but they will be worth it.

Inspect and clean your chimney annually.

An annual inspection ensures that your chimney is clean and free of obstructions. To prevent dangerous gases and pollutants from escaping into your home, clean and inspect your fireplace, furnace, and chimney on a regular basis. Reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning or a chimney fire with a free inspection and sweep from a team of experts.

When you are hiring the cleaning team, ensure that they have the relevant chimney cleaning tools.

Vacuums, brushes, and chemicals are among the tools used by chimney sweeps. Chemical products are used to eliminate the most difficult-to-clean creosote. A long wire brush is the most basic type of brush that chimney sweeps use.

The long wire brush is flexible and strong, allowing it to reach all of the tight spots that need to be cleaned. Chimney sweeps scrape away creosote using sharp flat wire bristle brushes. There are also hand brushes that the contractors use to clean narrow locations like chimney caps and smoke chambers.

Professional chimney sweeps use vacuums to ensure that pollutants do not enter your property during cleaning. Cleaning a chimney without using this tried-and-tested approach might leave your home’s inside unclean. And you don’t want this, do you?

There are instances when saving money is beneficial, but not when it comes to chimney care and upkeep. You should hire an experienced contractor with the right tools for the work.

Remember that a chimney sweep professional is qualified not only to clean your chimney but also to detect indicators of moisture damage and possibly dangerous deterioration of the chimney flue, flashing, or chimney brickwork. You can’t leave this to an inexperienced contractor, can you?

Prepare the chimney for cleaning.

To save time and make the work of the chimney sweep easy, you should always properly prepare your chimney for cleaning. To do this, here are valuable tips you should follow:

Ensure the fireplace is cool: Before the chimney sweep expert arrives, ensure that at least 24 to 48 hours have passed since you extinguished the last fire. The inside stonework should cool down.

If you wish to recycle your ashes in your garden, shovel them out before the chimney cleaner arrives. Otherwise, the ashes will be disposed of. To be on the safe side, ensure that the fireplace is cool to the touch before a chimney sweep can operate on it.

Clear the firebox: It will be beneficial if the firebox is empty prior to the arrival of the chimney sweep. The remaining logs should be cooled completely before being removed, along with the grate and fireplace tools. Remove any ornaments that are currently in your fireplace.

Ensure nothing is blocking the fireplace: Ensure that you have an unobstructed passage from the door to the fireplace broad enough for the chimney sweep to bring in the equipment needed for the chimney cleaning or inspection processes. Remove any tripping risks, such as toys and furniture. You should remove any furniture from the area as well.

Clear the mantel: The fireplace mantel is the complete frame that surrounds the fireplace opening, yet most people refer to it as the shelf above the hearth. If you have decorations on your mantel shelf, remove them so they don’t get knocked off while the chimney sweep is working.

Cover the furnishings: Professional chimney sweeps use drop cloths and other pieces to prevent chimney debris from entering your home’s interior. If you have the clothes, use them to cover neighboring furniture to protect against soot particles, dust, and creosote residue in the air.

Put the pets away: If you have any pets in your home who may bite or interfere with the chimney sweep’s job, keep them somewhere inside or outside your home until the work is over and the chimney sweep has left.

Parting shot

These are some of the things you should know when you are cleaning your chimney. To hire the right chimney contractors Bowie, you should take your time.

Research the firm before hiring them to examine and sweep your fireplace or furnace flues. What certificates and training do they have? What do the online review sites say? Inquire about the companies from your friends.

For you to have a great time, you need to work with an experienced and insured company. This way you are sure that in the event of any accident, you won’t be liable. You also should ensure that the company has the right tools. You don’t want the contractor to ruin your chimney with the wrong tools, do you?

The post Things You Should Know About Chimney Cleaning and Inspection first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

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

A well-maintained chimney is more than just a charming feature; it’s also crucial in ensuring efficient heating of a home. This is especially true when the home has a fireplace or wood-burning stove.

But chimneys can develop leaks over time if left unaddressed. This can lead to significant damage to both the chimney and the home. The key to avoiding costly repairs is early detection. So what are the signs your chimney needs a leak repair? 

There are Water Stains on the Ceiling or Walls

Water stains are one of the most obvious signs of a chimney leak. Keep an eye out for discoloration – usually brown or yellow –  on the walls and ceiling near the chimney. These stains indicate that water is seeping in through cracks in the chimney.

If ignored, the damage can spread, weaken your home’s structural integrity, and even lead to mold growth. So the sooner you do a chimney repair, the better. 

You Can Smell Damp or Musty Odors

Have you noticed a musty, damp smell near your fireplace? It could mean water is accumulating in the chimney flue or firebox. This doesn’t just cause unpleasant odor, it also points to a bigger issue – mold or mildew growth. Both thrive in moist environments and can pose serious health risks, including allergic reactions.

People exposed to molds and mildew may also experience headaches, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. Doing a quick chimney leak repair can help prevent these issues and keep your home safe. 

You Can See Cracked or Spalling Bricks

Chimney leaks can cause the bricks or mortar of the chimney to crack, chip, or flake – a condition known as spalling. When you notice crumbling or falling chimney bricks, it’s a sign that moisture has deepened into the structure.

Spalling weakens the chimney and if left unchecked, can result in bigger problems or even collapse. If you spot any signs of spalling, contact a chimney repair Milwaukee specialist right away to prevent further damage. 

There’s Rust in the Fireplace Components

Rust forming in the metal parts of your fireplace like the damper, firebox, or chimney is also another warning sign. Rust isn’t just an eyesore, it also compromises the function of metal components and points to deeper water intrusion issues.

Addressing the source of a leak promptly will help secure the integrity of your chimney and fireplace. 

You Can See Efflorescence

Efflorescence might sound like a fancy word but it’s really just the white, chalky salt deposits that water leaves behind on brick or masonry. 

While it’s easy to remove, it’s also a warning sign of excessive moisture in the chimney. So if you start seeing this chalky buildup, call a chimney leak repair specialist to avoid excessive damage on your chimney. 

There’s Damage to the Chimney Crown

The chimney crown serves as a barrier, protecting the chimney from water damage. Over time, the chimney crown can crack or deteriorate allowing water to seep into the structure.

If you notice visible cracks in the chimney crown or if the crown appears to be crumbling, schedule a  chimney crown repair as soon as possible. 

Rising Heating Bills

Have you noticed a sudden increase in the heating bill? Your poor-functioning chimney might be the culprit. A compromised chimney system allows heat to escape, forcing your home’s heating system to work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures. This inefficiency causes your heating costs to increase, so it’s worth getting your chimney inspected. 

Before You Go

Don’t let chimney leaks compromise your home’s safety and efficiency. If you notice any of the warning signs mentioned above, it’s time to call in the experts at Quality Fireplace Inc. 

As the premier fireplace and chimney contractor company in Wisconsin, we  specialize in chimney inspections and repairs. We also do chimney rebuilds and roof repairs. Our team of contractors guarantees thorough cleaning and maintenance in every project. Give us a call at (262) 786-4411 or at  (608) 249-6678, and let us help keep your home safe and warm. 

The post What are the Top Signs You Need a Chimney Leak Repair? appeared first on Quality Fireplace, Roof, & Chimney Services.

It’s that time of year again! You find yourself very busy with checking your Christmas list, maybe checking it twice. You have prepared for your holiday get-togethers. The invitations are sent out. You and your family have started to decorate the house. Checking the string of lights, making sure that they all light up. It really is a beautiful time of year. It is a time for rekindling relationships. Attempting to get together with old friends as much as possible.

As you check all your lists, don’t forget the essential maintenance checklist before the colder weather sets in. Now is the time to prepare to get your fireplace and chimney ready for the burning season. 

Chimney Maintenance Checklist

Chimney Sweep. Before you start up your fire, clean it out. A sweep will clean out any debris that may have fallen into the chimney. You probably haven’t had many fires in your chimney, especially if you live in warmer climates. The fall season has been abnormally mild as well. Cleaning the build-up of creosote will help to prevent chimney fires as well. Birds and small critters take advantage of the absence of fires. They love to nest in the shelter of your chimney. 

Chimney Inspection. Now is the time to set up that last-minute chimney inspection. It is recommended by chimney professionals to have your chimney inspected annually. Our professional technicians will come in with state-of-the-art equipment and let you know if there is anything that needs to be done to have a safe burning season. They will also point out any damage that may have occurred over the summer. 

Chimney cap cleaning. The first step to ensure that nothing gets into your chimney is your chimney cap. The cap works to keep anything out of your chimney. Clean it out. Make sure that there is nothing in the opening. Proper ventilation is needed for smoke drafts as well. It can also cause chimney fires.  If you don’t have a chimney cap, call Northeast Chimney to discuss your options. 

Repair any damage as soon as possible. Once you have had your inspection, discuss the options to have any chimney repairs done. Our professional technicians can help with chimney leaks, cracked mortar, brick repair, and many other issues that may arise. To have a safe and enjoyable burning season, we suggest getting any repairs done as they occur. Leaving them may end up costing you much more. For instance, as the winter storms come around rain and snow can get into any small cracks. Once the temperatures drop the water in the brick or cement freezes and expands, making the crack even larger. This causes a bigger and more costly repair.

Contact the Chimney Pro’s

Before your holiday begins, reach out to Northeast Chimney to start the process of essential chimney maintenance. Once you have the peace of mind, you can enjoy the seasons fully.

Schedule your inspection or cleaning soon by calling Northeast Chimney. We service all of Hartford, Tolland, and Litchfield Counties. All our chimney technicians are trained and qualified. 

The post Is Your Chimney Ready for Holiday Gatherings? appeared first on .

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