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While it is still quite hot in Georgia, as the cooler months start to approach, many Georgia homeowners begin dreaming of cozy evenings by the fire. But before you light that first log or turn on your gas logs, there’s one critical question to ask: Is your chimney ready for winter?

At Southern Chimneys, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners in the Atlanta area and throughout Georgia keep their fireplaces safe, functional, and beautiful year-round. A neglected chimney can cause serious issues—from smoke and draft problems to dangerous chimney fires or carbon monoxide drafting into your home.

Here are the top signs your chimney needs repairs before winter hits, so you can stay warm and safe this season.

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1. Visible Cracks in the Chimney or Firebox

If you can see cracks in the masonry or brick panels, either on the exterior of your chimney or inside the firebox, don’t wait. Cracks allow moisture to seep in, especially during Georgia’s rainy season, which accelerates deterioration and weakens the structure.

• Exterior cracks could mean shifting, water damage, or foundation issues.
• Interior firebox cracks may indicate worn-out refractory panels or heat damage.

Southern Chimneys often sees this issue during pre-winter inspections and catching it early can prevent far more expensive repairs later.

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2. White Staining (Efflorescence) on the Chimney Exterior

White, chalky stains on your chimney may look harmless, they’re actually a sign of serious trouble. This substance—called efflorescence—appears when water passes through your masonry and dissolves natural salts. When the moisture evaporates, it leaves behind a visible residue.

This is a major red flag for moisture intrusion, one of the most destructive forces for chimneys in Georgia. Moisture can deteriorate mortar, rust components, and even cause mold or mildew in your attic or walls.

Fix it before winter—or risk worsening the problem as freezing temps expand trapped water inside your masonry.

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3. A Strong Odor Coming from the Fireplace

Does your fireplace smell like campfire, burnt wood, or even something worse—like a musty, sour smell?

If so, you could be dealing with:

• Creosote buildup (a leading cause of chimney fires)
• Moisture and mold
• Animal nesting or debris blockages

In Georgia’s humid climate, even an unused chimney can develop moisture and odor issues, especially during summer storms. If it smells bad now, just wait until you light a fire.

This is where chimney cleanings and camera scope inspections become essential. A professional chimney sweep from Southern Chimneys can remove buildup, address venting issues, and ensure everything is clean and odor-free before winter.

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4. Smoke Backing Up Into the Home

If smoke isn’t venting properly, it’s not just annoying, it’s dangerous. Poor draft or improper airflow can lead to carbon monoxide buildup, which is odorless and potentially deadly.

Common causes of backdraft include:

• A blocked or damaged flue
• Creosote or soot buildup
• Incorrect damper operation
• Structural damage, such as a collapsing flue liner
• Chimney height

If you’re experiencing smoke inside the house—even just a little—it’s time to call the pros. This should be addressed before fireplace season starts to avoid delays, major safety risks and to ensure your fireplace is ready for use once those chilly nights hit.

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5. Rust on the Firebox or Damper

Noticing rust flakes or brown/orange streaks around your fireplace? That’s a sure sign of excess moisture and metal corrosion.

Rust can:

• Compromise the damper, causing poor airflow and energy loss
• Weaken metal components in the firebox or flue
• Signal a larger moisture problem that may already be affecting your masonry or roof

If your fireplace maintenance schedule doesn’t already include an annual check for rust and water intrusion, now’s the time to start.

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6. Water Leaks or Stains Around the Fireplace

Water is your chimney’s worst enemy. If you see water stains, peeling paint, bubbling drywall, or moldy smells around your fireplace, these are red flags that water is getting in.

In Georgia, this is often due to:

• Missing or damaged chimney caps
• Cracked crown seals
• Failing flashing around where the chimney meets the roof

If your home is in Atlanta or the surrounding areas, the combination of rain, humidity, and winter temperature swings makes waterproofing and cap repair a critical part of chimney care.

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7. Loose or Missing Bricks and Mortar

Chimney bricks and mortar don’t last forever—especially with repeated exposure to moisture, heat, and freezing temperatures. If you notice:

• Spalling bricks (bricks with flaking faces)
• Loose or crumbling mortar joints
• Gaps between bricks

…it’s time for tuckpointing or masonry repair.

Southern Chimneys offers comprehensive masonry restoration throughout Georgia. Don’t let a small crack become a costly rebuild.

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8. Animals or Debris in the Chimney

Raccoons, birds, squirrels—you name it. Animals love to take shelter in unused chimneys. If you’re hearing scratching, chirping, or notice leaves and twigs falling into your firebox, your flue might be occupied.

An animal blockage can:

• Completely obstruct airflow
• Introduce parasites or bacteria into your home
• Lead to chimney fires when nests are ignited

A quality chimney cap will prevent this, and a professional sweep can remove any existing debris safely and clean up any mess these cute birds/animals may have left.

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9. Your Chimney Hasn’t Been Serviced This Year

Even if you don’t see obvious damage, not following a consistent fireplace maintenance schedule is a risk in itself. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), all fireplaces should be inspected annually and cleaned as needed.

That’s why Southern Chimneys encourages every Atlanta-area homeowner to schedule a chimney cleaning before winter. This ensures:

• Your fireplace is safe and functional
• Your home is protected from smoke, fire, and moisture damage
• You avoid last-minute service delays during peak season

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10. Want to Upgrade or Elevate Your Space

If your fireplace looks outdated, doesn’t match your current style, or you simply want to breathe new life into your living room, now is the perfect time to consider a fireplace upgrade before winter.

A fireplace is often the centerpiece of your home, especially during the colder months. It’s where families gather, where guests are entertained, and where lasting memories are made; but an old or unattractive fireplace can drag down the entire feel of your space.

At Southern Chimneys, we specialize in fireplace renovations and aesthetic upgrades for homeowners across Atlanta and surrounding area. Whether you’re dreaming of a sleek modern gas insert, a timeless stove insert, or a custom herringbone firebox, we can help you design a look that fits your taste and lifestyle.

Here are a few ways we can help upgrade your fireplace:

• Convert a wood-burning fireplace to gas logs for a cleaner, more efficient heating option
• Install a gas insert or stove insert that fits your style and aesthetics
• Upgrade your firebox to a herringbone or a small brick pattern

Southern Chimneys is Atlanta’s trusted source for fireplace remodeling, let’s make your vision a reality.

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Why Pre-Winter Chimney Repairs Matter in Georgia

Winter might not be brutal in Georgia, but fluctuating temperatures, rain, and humidity can wreak havoc on damaged masonry or neglected flues. If your chimney is already compromised, the freeze/thaw cycle will make it worse.

Plus, the moment the weather cools down, service demand skyrockets—which can mean longer wait times for repairs. That’s why we recommend booking your cleaning and camera scope inspection appointment with Southern Chimneys in late summer or early fall.

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Schedule Your Chimney Inspection Today with Southern Chimneys

Southern Chimneys is proud to serve Atlanta, GA and surrounding communities with expert chimney inspection, repair, and cleaning services. We’re family-owned, fully certified, and committed to giving every customer the safest, cleanest, and coziest fireplace experience possible.

Don’t wait for the cold to catch you off guard. Be proactive and:

• Schedule your chimney inspection
• Stick to your fireplace maintenance schedule
• Fix any chimney issues before they become expensive hazards

Call Southern Chimneys today at 678.744.4046 to make sure your fireplace and chimney is winter-ready!

The post Winter Chimney Repair: Top Signs Your Chimney Needs Fixing Before Cold Weather first appeared on Southern Chimneys.

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

The Hidden Dangers of Summer Sun Exposure

Masonry Under Siege

Your chimney’s bricks and mortar face a constant battle against thermal expansion. As temperatures soar during the day and cool at night, this repeated expansion and contraction creates stress fractures that can compromise your chimney’s structural integrity. Meanwhile, UV radiation slowly breaks down the chemical bonds in mortar, weakening what should be your chimney’s strongest defense.

Crown Deterioration

The concrete crown at the top of your chimney serves as your first line of defense against the elements. Under relentless sun exposure, this protective barrier can dry out and develop cracks, creating pathways for water infiltration that can lead to expensive interior damage.

Aesthetic Decline

Beyond structural concerns, prolonged sun exposure causes painted and coated surfaces to fade and deteriorate, affecting your home’s curb appeal and potentially impacting its value.

The Rust Factor: A Growing Concern

Your chimney’s metal components—including caps, dampers, and chase covers—face their own set of challenges. When rust takes hold, the consequences can be severe:

Water Infiltration: Rust creates holes in protective metal surfaces, allowing moisture to penetrate your home’s structure and potentially cause thousands of dollars in damage.

Safety Risks: A compromised system can trap dangerous gases in your home, while weakened structural components may fail when you need them most.

Costly Repairs: What starts as surface rust can quickly escalate into major structural issues requiring extensive repairs or complete component replacement.

Visual Impact: Rust stains create unsightly orange streaks on your chimney’s exterior, signaling maintenance issues to neighbors and potential buyers.

Your Protection Strategy

The encouraging news is that these problems are mostly preventable with proper maintenance. Professional-grade sealants offer comprehensive protection by creating a barrier against UV radiation, moisture penetration, and the oxidation process that leads to rust formation.

Our Recommendation

If your chimney hasn’t received professional attention in the past year, we strongly recommend scheduling an inspection and sealant application. This proactive approach typically costs a fraction of major repairs while ensuring your family’s safety and protecting your investment.

Summer’s intense conditions make this the ideal time to address these concerns before they escalate. An investment in preventive care today can save you thousands in repairs tomorrow while giving you peace of mind knowing your chimney system is properly protected.

Ready to protect your home? Contact us to schedule your free estimate for a sealant application at 781-893-6611 or www.bestchimney.com under the Schedule an Appointment tab

The post What Does the Blazing Sun Do to Your Chimney? And Why Sealants are a Must appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Summer has finally reared its head. We have been waiting a long time, some folks longer than others. Living in New England, we can be hit by some good winter storms. Property damage, whether it is to trees or structures, is common. But don’t let your guard down. 

Summer is also a time when stormy weather hits New England. A hurricane is common to see throughout the summer. We have also seen a tornado come through our hills. All the reasons to be prepared. Being prepared means making sure that your chimney is intact without any issues of cracks, leaks, or other damage.

Professionals suggest that an annual Chimney sweep and inspection be conducted. When a problem arises, the best plan is to tackle it as soon as possible. This will cost you much less than if you let the damage to the fireplace and bricks go on too long.

Now is a great time to have your yearly chimney inspection. Our highly trained professionals will look over all aspects of your chimney and fireplace and repair any damage before you experience any summertime storms. 

Water damage from storms and humidity, animal infestations, as well as musty odors due to the lack of ventilation, are just some of the issues that fireplace owners deal with in summer. 

Damages That May Occur With Summer Storms

• Masonry Leakage – Bricks are porous. They tend to take in water and are damaged in the winter with the freeze/thaw effect. If not sealed, additional water can seep in and form cracks in the bricks.
• Spalling bricks – Moisture can cause bricks to spall (crumble or flake), leading to structural problems.
• Chimney Crown Damage – The chimney crown is the cement structure designed to shed water away from your chimney. Intense storms with wind and rain can damage them. This is something to watch for.  
• Flashing dislodged – The flashing is the metal sheet that is at the base of the chimney and roof. Winds, hail, and rain can dislodge the flashing, causing water to seep in. 
• Blockages – During the summer, small animals try to find shelter. As the chimney isn’t being used, it seems to be the perfect place to shelter down. They bring in twigs and leaves to nest, which can cause blockages. 
• Structural Damage – Heavy wind, along with hail and rain, can whip around your chimney and cause structural damage. Especially if the chimney needs repair. 

Prevention

• Be aware – Always keep an eye on any visual repairs that may be needed.
• Regular maintenance – An annual chimney sweep and inspection are recommended to keep your chimney in the best working order.
• Water Repellant – Once the chimney is completely dry, a water repellent can be applied. Our technicians are trained to tackle this job. They know the appropriate time to apply and use the best products. 

Schedule your inspection or cleaning soon by calling Northeastern Chimney. We service all of Hartford, Tolland, and Litchfield Counties. All our chimney technicians are trained and qualified. We are active in the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG).

The post Summer Storm Damage  appeared first on .

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

Moisture. We’re in a constant battle with moisture. It doesn’t help that we live in the Chicagoland area, and there’s always moisture, or humidity in the air. Now we’re battling hot days, storms, hot days and more storms. And that leads to more moisture and humidity in the air. That constant hot temperatures in the summer and cold weather in the winter with snow and rain storms mixed in, the chimney takes a beating. The best way to protect the chimney, is to apply a chimney saver, a waterproof agent that repels water. Why is chimney saver a good idea?

Moisture is a Problem for Masonry

Ensuring that your chimney is healthy means keeping the chimney maintained annualy. This means keeping the water and moisture out! When it rains, and we all know it will, the materials soak up moisture and because it is a porous material, water invites itself in and slowly begins to deteriorate the bricks and mortar.

Remember we talked about the freeze – thaw cycle? When water freezes, the pores expand. When the water thaws, it leaves a little bit larger space for the water to enter the next time. As this continues to repeat itself each year, the bricks become unstable, crack and eventually fall out.

How Does the Chimney Saver Work?

Using a chimney treatment like our Chimney Saver solution, is one of the best, most affordable ways to prevent rain water from absorbing in the bricks, stone and mortar. What does the chimney treatment do?

1. Prevents cracking of the bricks, stone and mortar
2. Keeps water out so leaks don’t form
3. Maintains the chimney structure
4. Extends the life of the chimney

When is it Best to Apply the Chimney Saver?

It’s best during the Spring, Summer and Fall months when it is mostly dry so the sealant is absorbed deep into the bricks and mortar for maximum protection. Chimney Saver is a spray application that gets quickly absorbed into the materials.  While we are in the hot summer months, contact us today at 877-244-6349 to get your Chimney Saver applied to the chimney today.

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

It’s challenging to determine if the chimney has problems because its height makes it difficult to observe or see everything clearly, and it’s hard to know what to look for or how often to check. We’ve developed a few important signs to check in order to know if your chimney needs repair. Let’s take a look at our top 5.

1. White Stains or Efflorescence

We’re starting with this one as most homeowners aren’t aware that the white stains or efflorescence means your chimney needs repair. If you have white stains on your exterior chimney, this means that there is excess moisture in the chimney. The white stains will go away, most often, with a good wash, but it does mean that a certified chimney professional needs to evaluate why there is excess moisture in your chimney.

2. Mortar Joint Deterioration

Most chimneys are made of bricks or stone. In between the brick and stone is mortar. Because both the brick, stone and mortar are porous materials, it deteriorates over time. When this gets damaged, moisture from humidity, rain, and snow flows into the cracks, even the smallest hairline cracks, and enters into the chimney, making its way down into the structure. It is important to get the exterior chimney inspected each year, because if the chimney is left with the mortar joint deterioration too long, the chimney can collapse.

3. Spalling or Flaking Brick, Stone and Mortar

Spalling on the chimney is when pieces of the chimney, the brick, stone and mortar, weaken to the point it comes away from the chimney and falls on the roof. This means that there is water damage. When the chimney is left unchecked, damage begins to form and continues to erode over time. This means a certified professional will need to determine if the chimney needs repairs, a partial build or a completely new chimney.

4. Chimney Crown Damage

The chimney crown is the slab of concrete that sits and extends over the bricks or stone chimney. It serves the purpose of protecting the chimney from the weather elements, drawing it away from the chimney itself. The chimney crown is also a porous material where over time, cracks can form allowing moisture into the chimney and home. During an inspection, this will be checked ensuring that it’s constantly working to protect the chimney and your home.

5. Rusting on the Damper

Yes, rusting can occur on the damper or even the firebox. When rusting happens, it is a clear indication that moisture is present. During the time of an inspection, the certified technician will check the operations and sealant of the damper. Moisture inside of the chimney can be a sign of more complications.

These top 5 are a great way to know if your chimney needs repair. Contact us today at 877-244-6349 to schedule an appointment to have your chimney inspected by a certified professional.

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

A yearly chimney inspection is essential for many reasons. The most prominent being around safety, efficiency, and maintaining the integrity of the chimney and your home. Professionals recommend a yearly chimney inspection for these reasons. 

Our technicians at Northeastern Chimney are professionally trained in every aspect of chimney cleaning and repair. You are in good hands when you choose to call Northeastern Chimney. 

When you think of yearly maintenance for your home, don’t forget the need for attention to your chimney and fireplace. Over time, if not with regular cleaning and inspections, you may find that your chimney starts to deteriorate or even starts to crumble. Masonry does not last forever. Often, a process called repointing or tuckpointing is needed to replace mortar between bricks and stones.

Professionals suggest that an annual Chimney sweep and inspection be conducted. When a problem arises, the best plan is to tackle it as soon as possible. This will cost you much less than if you let the damage to the fireplace and bricks go on too long.

Now, let’s discuss the reasons that a chimney inspection is important. 

Why A Chimney Inspection?

• Safety Hazard. When you burn wood in your fireplace, creosote —a thick, black, oily deposit —which is a byproduct of the process that adheres to the chimney liner. This becomes a fire hazard when it accumulates in your chimney. Creosote is highly flammable and can ignite. 
• Ventilation. When your chimney is properly functioning, you can be assured that harmful gases such as carbon monoxide will leave the chimney safely. If there is a blockage in your chimney, this can prevent proper ventilation.
• Water leaks. An inspection will identify water leakage. Water travels in ways that can be very damaging, not only to the structure of your fireplace, but also to your roof, walls, and ceiling.
• An inspection will identify deteriorating bricks, cracks, or other structural damage. Neglecting these issues may lead to structural integrity and deterioration.
• Some insurance policies will not cover you if there was damage to the fireplace and/ or chimney if you haven’t kept up with yearly chimney inspections.
• Peace of mind. Regular maintenance of your chimney by a professional inspector with yearly sweeps and inspections will give you the peace of mind that you have done everything possible to keep your chimney in the best working condition.
• Backdraft prevention. When a chimney is properly functioning, it will prevent backdrafts. Preventing toxic gases from being forced into your home.

For these reasons, it is important to consult a professional chimney team such as Northeastern Chimney to confirm your appointment now. Tackling any damages early is your best defense. Waiting on repairs only allows them to grow larger and more expensive. 

Schedule your inspection or cleaning soon by calling Northeastern Chimney. We service all of Hartford, Tolland, and Litchfield Counties. All our chimney technicians are trained and qualified. We are active in the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG). We are here for all your chimney needs. 

The post The Importance Of Yearly Chimney Inspections appeared first on .

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

Your fireplace may be out of sight—but it shouldn’t be out of mind and why

When summer rolls around, most homeowners shift their focus outdoors—grills get fired up, patios come to life, and the chimney and fireplace becomes an afterthought. But here’s something most people don’t realize just because your fireplace isn’t in use, doesn’t mean it’s problem-free.

At Best Chimney, we’re busy year-round for a reason. Chimney issues don’t take a vacation—and if left unaddressed during the summer, they can become serious (and expensive) problems by fall.

Why Summer Chimney Care Matters

Even when your fireplace is dormant, your chimney is exposed to the elements and vulnerable to a number of risks. Summer heat, humidity, storms, and even critters can all quietly contribute to chimney damage while you’re focused on other things. Let’s take a closer look at why now is the perfect time to get your chimney inspected and serviced:

1. Moisture Damage from Summer Storms

Warm-weather storms and high humidity can lead to water seepage in your chimney’s masonry. Over time, moisture causes cracks to expand and bricks to deteriorate. Left untreated, this can lead to structural damage, mold, and staining inside your home. A professional summer inspection can spot these issues early—before they spiral into bigger repairs.

2. Unwanted Guests: Animals & Nests

Your chimney is dark, quiet, and sheltered making it a perfect nesting spot for birds, squirrels, or raccoons during a summer storm. These nests block airflow and pose a major venting hazard when your home heating system calls for hot water. Summer is the ideal time to install a chimney cap and make sure your chimney is swept and clear.

3. Beat the Fall Scheduling Rush

Here’s a secret: Fall is our busiest season. Once the weather turns cool, we’re booked solid with inspections, cleanings, and emergency calls. Homeowners who wait until October or November are often left scrambling for an appointment. By scheduling in the summer, you can choose your preferred time—no rush, no wait, and complete peace of mind.

4. Early Action = Savings

Catching small issues now means avoiding bigger, more costly ones later. Masonry cracks, damaged liners, or blockages can be quickly and affordably handled in the summer. Waiting until fall or winter often means higher repair costs—and limited availability.

Protect Your Home, Even in the Heat

At Best Chimney, we’ve spent over 30 years helping homeowners stay safe, season after season. Whether it’s a simple sweep, a full inspection, or necessary repairs, we’ll make sure your chimney is in top shape long before you’re thinking “back-to-school”.

Don’t Wait. Book Now.

Your chimney’s not on vacation—and neither are we.

Let’s get ahead of the problems, not behind them.

Call us today at 781-893-6611 or schedule online at www.bestchimney.com

Enjoy the summer—and let Best Chimney handle what you can’t see.

The post Your Chimney’s Not on Vacation—And Neither Are We appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

If you own a home in Georgia with a fireplace, one of the most overlooked — yet most essential — components of your chimney system is the chimney cap. This small but mighty piece of hardware sits at the very top of your chimney flue and acts as the first line of defense against the elements, pests, and other potential hazards. Whether you’re in Atlanta, the suburbs, or the more rural parts of the state, installing a properly fitted chimney cap is one of the smartest investments you can make for your home.

What Is a Chimney Cap?

A chimney cap is a full coverage protective cover that sits over the opening of your chimney. It’s usually equipped with mesh sides and a solid metal top. While it may seem like a simple addition, a quality chimney cap provides multiple layers of protection for your home and fireplace system.

Why Georgia Homes Need Chimney Caps:

Georgia homeowners face unique weather and environmental challenges that make chimney caps especially important:

1. Heavy Rain and Moisture Protection

Georgia’s humid climate and frequent thunderstorms make moisture intrusion a constant threat. Rainwater entering your chimney can lead to rusting damper components, deterioration of flue liners, mold growth, and even water stains on interior walls. A chimney cap prevents rain from pouring directly into the chimney, helping preserve the integrity of your chimney structure.

2. Pest Prevention

Birds (especially chimney swifts), squirrels, raccoons, and even snakes have been known to make themselves at home inside uncapped chimneys in Georgia. Not only can this create foul odors and blockages, but it’s also a serious fire hazard. A chimney cap with a mesh screen keeps wildlife out while still allowing smoke to exit properly.

3. Spark Arrestor

Chimney caps also act as spark arrestors, preventing hot embers from escaping the chimney and landing on your roof or in nearby brush. A capped chimney greatly reduces the chance of a stray spark starting an outdoor fire.

4. Debris Blocker

Leaves, twigs, and other debris can easily find their way into an uncapped chimney. These materials can clog the chimney flue or even your utility flue, obstruct ventilation, and contribute to creosote buildup — a leading cause of chimney fires. A chimney cap keeps your flue clear and your home safer.

5. Downdraft Prevention

Strong winds and changing weather patterns in Georgia, can cause downdrafts. These downdrafts push outside air (sometimes filled with smoke or ash) back into your home. A chimney cap helps reduce this risk by blocking sudden gusts of wind from entering your flue.

Custom Caps for Masonry Chimneys

At Southern Chimneys, LLC, we specialize in custom-fabricated full coverage hipped-roof chimney caps that match the size, shape, and design of your chimney. Whether you need a black cap or a cooper cap, enhancing your home’s curb appeal, we can create the perfect fit. Our caps are installed to meet or exceed National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes and protect against water intrusion, nesting animals, and premature chimney deterioration.

Final Thoughts

Your chimney is a critical part of your home’s heating and ventilation system — and a chimney cap is critical to keeping that system safe, functional, and long-lasting. For Georgia homeowners, the cap provides year-round protection from storms, pests, debris, and fire hazards.

If your chimney is missing a cap, or if your existing one is rusted, damaged, or improperly sized, give Southern Chimneys, LLC a call. Our certified professionals can inspect your system, recommend the right chimney cap, and provide expert installation that stands the test of time.

The post Chimney Caps: Why They’re Essential for Georgia Homes first appeared on Southern Chimneys.

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

As we have all experienced in the suburbs of Chicagoland, wind can cause a lot of damage with branches from trees falling on the roof and all over the yard to finding roofing shingles and flashing on the driveway and in the yard as well. As these are cause for concern, the chimney cap blowing off is a serious one. We field many calls after a high wind day with homeowners stating that the chimney cap blew off! What do I do?

The Chimney Cap Blew Off! What Do I Do?

The chimney cap is an instrumental part of the chimney system and it is important to take care of the problem quickly. Every chimney needs a chimney cap for the same reasons every home needs a roof!  Not many homeowners have the ability to go on the roof to secure the opening of the chimney. And that’s okay. Going on the roof of the home can have safety implications. That’s why it’s better and safer for you to rely on a certified professional with years of experience working on chimney systems. When it happens, be sure to contact us 877-244-6349.

What Happens if the Chimney Isn’t Tended To?

If the chimney opening is left unattended, there are three problem areas that can occur. Let’s take a look at each one.

1. Water Damage: We have rain, and plenty of it. When it rains, water will enter the chimney opening and may lead to damage in the fireplace, masonry and the roof itself.
2. Pests and Animals: Where there’s an opening, there’s someone searching for a nice home. The opening will attract squirrels, birds, raccoons, bats and other animals that can climb right up onto the roof. You really don’t want an animal to get inside.
3. Downdrafts: This is a messy and smelly problem that occurs with a missing chimney cap. A missing chimney cap can pull smoke, soot or dusty debris from the fireplace and push it into your living space creating a safety hazard. You don’t want to breath that in, and walk on the flooring which tracks it in other areas of your home.

Schedule a Certified Chimney Inspection and Repair

When a serious issue occurs such as a chimney cap blowing off, contact Superior Chimney today to have the damages assessed. We will also evaluate the condition of the chimney cap (if it hasn’t blown a few houses down) to determine if the chimney cap can be repaired or if it needs to be replaced.

The Chimney Cap Blew Off! What Do I Do? During an inspection, we’ll also check the condition of the chimney crown, which is the concrete slab on top of the chimney that overhangs the brick or stone chimney. We’ll also check the health of the chimney liner for any issues. This can be affected if the missing chimney cap isn’t identified on time and the opening has been exposed to the elements. And of course, if the chimney cap needs to be replaced, it will be installed securely and properly by a certified professional. Check out what many customers say about us on Google, Yelp, Facebook and other social media platforms. With over 4,500 reviews, we have a 97% positive rating. Contact us today at 877-244-6349. See you soon!

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

When is the Best Time to Sweep the Chimney and Fireplace?

When we approach the month of May, we are confident that summer rolls right on in. If you are wondering where summer is, you’re not alone. These cool temperatures are inching upward, but very slowly. Many have vowed not to turn on the furnace anymore, challenging the weather to get better. Instead, in the nightly cool or cold situations, the fireplace gets kicked on again. It’s just too chilly to keep everything turned off. Phone calls have come in asking, with the cool weather looming, when is the best time to sweep the chimney and fireplace?

When is the Best Time to Sweep the Chimney and Fireplace?

A question that we receive quite frequently is when is the best time to sweep the chimney and fireplace. Traditionally, most homeowners sweep their chimney and fireplace in March, April, May followed by September, October and November. Is there a right time? Not really. Here are a few suggestions for the fastest service.

High users of the fireplace: If you are a frequent user of the wood burning fireplace, you may need to sweep it one or two times per year. The rule of thumb is once every face cord of wood burned, and that’s if everything is in balanced working order.  Because of the quick build up of creosote, any month you choose is fine. Creosote is a build up of the bi-products from burning wood in the fireplace. Because this material that builds up on the inside walls of the chimney is highly flammable, it is best to get that removed on schedule to prevent fires from igniting.

Low users of the fireplace / Non-users of the fireplace: You may say, that you can skip a year because of the low frequency or non-use of the fireplace. However, according to the CSIA, that’s the Chimney Safety Institute of America, sweeping the fireplace is essential for the safety and security of the home. You can have the sweep and inspection of your chimney done during non-busy months such as January, February, July, August, December. That is a chunk of months to choose from to get your chimney swept and inspected by a certified chimney professional at Superior Chimney.

Certified Chimney Inspection

You hear the words certified chimney inspection often from us. And for good reason. A certified chimney inspection is instrumental for the structural integrity and fireworthiness of the chimney, the performance of the chimney system which includes the fireplace and for safety. The Superior Chimney certified professionals will be able to identify and discuss in detail with you any potential hazards such as blockages in the chimney system, damages found inside and outside, creosote buildup as well as moisture intrusion. Our job is to ensure that fires don’t have the energy and characteristics they need to start and of course, ensure efficient operation.

Now that you know….

When is the Best Time to Sweep the Chimney and Fireplace? Now that you are armed with the right information to make great decisions, it’s time to schedule it on your calendar to give you the reminder when to call Superior Chimney to inspect and sweep your chimney and fireplace. Finally, when is the best time to sweep the chimney and fireplace? Take a look on your calendar. We’re also here to help. If you would like for Superior Chimney to give you the reminder call, we can help with that as well. Contact us today at 877-244-6349.

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