There’s nothing more beautiful, warm and inviting than a
wood burning fireplace. It’s frequently featured in family pictures and is
often the center of attention in a home. That’s because a wood burning
fireplace is special. Some enjoy watching the flames and listening to the
crackles of the burning wood. Others enjoy tending to the fire, often picking
up the poker to adjust the log by an inch. Children often lay in front of the
fireplace to feel its warmth.

As much attention as we give a fireplace, it’s critical to
place the same amount of devotion to the care of wood burning fireplaces. On
our website,
we report on chimney
fires. Our intention is to educate and prevent fires, injury and damage to
your family and home. In the month of December, there were over 70 fires
reported in the online news, a few were right here in Park Ridge, Deer Park and
Libertyville.

Common Cause & Prevention of Chimney Fires

Last article
or post, we (and Santa) talked about keeping holiday wrappings and the
Christmas tree away from the fireplace as they both are highly flammable. We’ve
also talked about the build-up of creosote for good
reason. It’s the most common cause of chimney fires. So, how can you keep the
build-up of creosote to a minimum? Here are a few tips:

• Have Superior Chimney clean and check your
  fireplace and chimney each year
• Keep the damper
  open to allow proper airflow
• Minimize the amount of wood burning in the
  firebox at one time
• Use seasoned wood, as it removes moisture
  allowing for a better and safer burn

What are the Signs of a Chimney on Fire?

Superior Chimney is often asked, “How do I know if my
chimney is on fire?” This is a great question. If you know what to
listen…look…or smell for, that can help.

• Listen: the fireplace can have a loud crackling
  sound or a popping sound. It may even sound like a freight train or an
  airplane.
• Look: the chimney can have flames shooting out
  from the top, or lots of dense smoke entering your home.
• Smell: the fireplace can have a hot intense
  smoky, bad smell.

It’s true that the article talked about prevention before
the signs of a fire, and it’s for a good reason. Superior Chimney wants you to
get the most enjoyment from your wood burning fireplace in the safest way
possible. So if you haven’t cleaned your
fireplace and chimney yet, now’s the time to get it done so you can ring in
the New Year with family and friends by the fireplace…safely.

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

Although every type of fireplace burns fuel and provides a degree of warmth, not every fireplace is the same. Depending on the type you have, certain maintenance tasks will be necessary to keep it safe and operating at peak levels. Let’s look at the most popular fireplace styles.

Open masonry fireplace

These are the traditional fireplaces, built into a wall by a mason and often surrounded by brick, stone or other materials. Unless the fireplace has been retrofitted, it burns wood logs.

Masonry fireplaces look fabulous and add a rustic touch of charm to a home, but they’re not particularly good heat producers. The open design of these fireplaces allows about 80% or more of the heat they create to be lost up the chimney.

Maintaining a masonry fireplace centers around cleaning and inspection. Wood fires produce creosote, which builds up in your flue and can ignite and start a chimney fire. Certified chimney sweeps use specialized tools to remove creosote and other obstructions from your chimney to keep it safe for use.

Gas & wood Inserts

Inserts are built in factories and are sized to fit directly into the fireboxes of masonry fireplaces. Fireplace inserts are powerful heat producers and add a stunning decorative accent to your home.

Gas inserts should be inspected annually to ensure that the components and gas line connections are in good shape.

 

 

Wood inserts, like any wood-burning appliance, need yearly service from a chimney sweep to remove creosote and soot from the vent pipe. Fireplace inserts require venting, but not with the existing chimney. Custom vent pipes are included with both styles of inserts.

Zero-clearance gas and wood fireplaces

These appliances get their name from their heavy-duty insulation properties that make them safe to install within virtually any wall in the home with no clearance required between the unit and adjacent wall materials and flooring. Similar in performance to fireplace inserts, ZC fireplaces are self-contained units that are installed in places other than the firebox of an existing fireplace.

Zero-clearance fireplaces retain the heat they produce – as much as 80% to 90% of it – and send the heat into the room rather than up the vent pipe. A gas model needs annual safety inspections; a wood-burning model needs inspection along with professional cleaning of the vent system that comes with the unit.

Gas log sets

Gas logs are used in an existing wood-burning fireplace. When professionally installed, these devices create safe warmth and a lot of beauty, with logs that look remarkably similar to real wood.

A gas log set gives you lovely fires but none of the mess and professional cleaning requirements of a wood fireplace.

No matter what type of fireplace you have, it can bring you many years of pleasure and enjoyment. The key to getting the most out of your fireplace is to stay on top of maintenance, which means regular inspection and necessary repairs. For wood-burning units, proper maintenance includes chimney/vent pipe cleaning once a year.

High’s Chimney Service of Gaithersburg, MD, is ready to help keep your fireplace safe and running at peak efficiency. We offer CSIA-certified chimney sweep services, fireplace and chimney inspection and repairs on all types of fireplaces and heating stoves. Call us today at (301) 519-3500.

 

The post What Type of Fireplace Do You Have? Here’s how to Tell. appeared first on Highs Chimney.

Do you want to update your fireplace or add a new fireplace in your home? When you buy an EPA-approved fireplace, you are getting an efficient heating appliance that can help you cut your winter utility costs. Zero-clearance fireplaces can be installed in virtually any room of your home. Below, learn about a great way to upgrade your fireplace and also possibilities for new, modernized fireplace installations.

Improve Efficiency and Appearance

Do you have a traditional masonry fireplace? If so, you may have noticed that it doesn’t add much as far as heating your home. As lovely as these types of fireplaces can be, beauty and the ambiance created by fires are typically their only benefits. The efficiency rating of a masonry fireplace is, at best, a mere 10%. What that means is that 90% of the heat escapes through the chimney.

If you have a wood, gas, or pellet fireplace insert installed, the efficiency of your appliance will increase to 70% minimum. A fireplace insert is a closed-combustion firebox that is built specifically for an existing fireplace. It is essential to have a professional install the fireplace insert inside the opening of the current masonry fireplace.

Fireplace inserts come in many designs so that you can find a style to match your décor, including rustic, contemporary, traditional, and modern.

A New Fireplace Installation

Fireplaces are popular among homeowners everywhere, and the possibilities for installing fireplaces in your home are better than ever. You can have a wood or gas zero-clearance fireplace safely installed in your home virtually next to combustible materials such as wood, paneling, and sheetrock. Linear gas fireplaces offer an entire line of sleek products that can be perfect for any home, including minimalist modern.

When a new fireplace is installed, you can opt for a stand-alone model or one with a mantle, stonework, modern tile, and a hearth extension. You can choose the style that you desire. Because the fireplaces are zero-clearance appliances, you can enjoy a fireplace in your kitchen, bathroom, office, and bedrooms. To get the full benefits of zero-clearance fireplaces, turn off central heating and only use the fireplace in the room you’re in. This can help you safe a considerable amount of money on heating costs.

If you choose a wood-burning fireplace, you get the beloved ambiance that only real crackling wood and wood smoke can create. If you enjoy the convenience of gas, turning the heat on and off is as simple as adjusting a thermostat or using a remote control.

You don’t have to go with faux gas logs, though models available today can be very realistic, mimicking many different types of wood. A more modern look is achieved if you choose glass media. The colors available may include royal cobalt, ancient amber, brilliant ice, or others. Rocks are also a nice option, and they bring a favorite element of nature into the home.

Among the options for a gas fireplace is interior electric lighting, which can enhance the beauty of the flames. Depth and texture are also added when built-in recessed lighting illuminates the interior materials in a gas fireplace.

Contact the Experts at Northeastern Chimney

Every chimney technician at Northeastern Chimney is CSIA-certified. Each of our chimney sweeps has training and continuing education. If you are ready to have a fireplace insert installed for an upgrade or if you want a new fireplace installation, our technicians have the experience to do the job correctly. Call today at 860-233-5770 to schedule a chimney inspection, chimney cleaning, chimney repair, a fireplace insert installation, or to choose a new fireplace and have it professionally installed.

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

As solidly as chimneys are constructed, if regular care and maintenance are neglected, they easily can become hazardous. If you have a home with an active fireplace, here are a few tips on how to care for your chimney.

Chimney damage

You don’t have to be a licensed, certified chimney technician to know when your chimney isn’t in perfect shape. There are certain signs to watch for and then bring to the attention of a professional.

 

 

Crumbling bricks and mortar: These are signs that the chimney is suffering structural damage, often from water infiltration.

Dampness on walls and ceiling adjacent to the

Chimney: This isn’t necessarily a sign of chimney damage, but it could be. Have it checked out.

Water in the firebox: This sign means water is somehow getting into the chimney system. Left unattended, significant damage and dangerous operating conditions could result.

Chimney leaning to the side: A leaning chimney means there’s some kind of structural damage to the bricks and mortar. If you notice that your chimney is leaning, call a chimney repair technician immediately.

Strong, musty odors: Excess dampness in the flue can cause stronger-than usual odors when it mixes with soot and creosote. It’s important to know why the dampness exists, because it could be due to a leak within the system.

These are all common signs of chimney damage that should be addressed by a CSIA-certified chimney expert.

Annual chimney sweep

Wood-burning fireplaces add flammable creosote to the chimney flue every time a fire is burned. Because creosote can ignite and start a chimney fire, all fire-safety agencies in the U.S. recommend yearly chimney sweep services.

Some chimney fires are obvious; others are small and brief, often unnoticed by the homeowner. But

The sound of rumbling, similar to a distant train

An odd ticking or clicking sound

Excess amounts of dense smoke coming from either end of the chimney

An intense burning smell inside your home

If you notice any of these signs, call local emergency services and extinguish the fire in the fireplace, if possible.

Schedule annual chimney inspections

Chimneys that run year after year can become damaged to the point they’re no longer safe to operate. Water damage, structural damage and damage to the chimney’s various components all can create an unsafe chimney.

Fortunately, an annual chimney inspection can detect early signs of chimney damage and recommend the proper repair procedures before the problem becomes expensive and difficult to fix.

There are three recognized levels inspectors often increase their visibility with video technology that allows them to view still photos and live video of the chimney’s interior.Remember that chimney cleaning, chimney inspection and chimney repair should be performed only by experienced, licensed technicians who hold advanced industry certifications. While you as a homeowner can spot common signs of chimney damage, it’s not safe for you to attempt to repair it.

Fluesbrothers Chimney & Fireplace of Kansas City, KS, is here to help with all your chimney service needs. Our experts are CSIA-certified and have the tools and training to do the job right the first time. Call us today at (913) 236-7141.

The post Why It’s Dangerous to Neglect Chimney Maintenance appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.

A fully functional chimney is a safe chimney. A damaged chimney can be dangerous. Fortunately, you can spot many signs of chimney damage and arrange for the necessary repairs before the problem gets out of hand. Here are four areas of chimney damage/chimney issues to be on the lookout for.

Leaky chimney signs

Water in the firebox: If you see water inside your firebox, likely it means there’s a leak somewhere in the system.

 

White stains on masonry: White stains (efflorescence) are caused by naturally occurring salt and mean that water is getting into the masonry.

Foul smells coming from the fireplace: Excess moisture inside the flue often is caused by a leaky chimney. Moisture mixes with soot and creosote and produces strong odors.

Structural damage 

Crumbling on the roof: Masonry damage often leaves areas of crumbling on the roof near the base of the chimney.

Leaning chimney: If a chimney has begun to lean to one side, it indicates a significant level of damage that needs to be addressed before using the fireplace again.

Missing bricks: When bricks fall completely away from the chimney or parts of the bricks are missing, water damage is often the reason.

Black staining at the top of the chimney: This could be caused by the excess, thick smoke produced by a chimney fire.

Damage to chimney components

Damaged chimney cap: Any compromise to the vented areas of a chimney cap mean that unwanted obstructions could get into the flue and cause drafting issues.

Cracks in the chimney crown: Crown damage commonly begins with small cracks, which expand over time due to freeze-thaw cycles. Water inside the crown structure eventually can destroy it.

Flashing problems: The flashing that blocks the gap between the chimney and the roof should be flat and secure in order to keep water from running down into the home. Warped or deteriorated flashing needs to be replaced.

Chimney liner damage: If the chimney liner begins to break apart or degenerate, you may notice pieces of it in the firebox. You also may be able to visually see some parts of the liner to determine if damage is present.

Issues inside the flue

Aside from what’s listed above, two serious issues can take place inside the flue.

1. Excess creosote buildup: Creosote is formed when wood burns. The substance is flammable and responsible for most chimney fires in the U.S. each year.
2. Outside obstructions: Things such as small-animal nests, dead small animals, leaves, twigs and other debris can narrow the smoke passage and cause smoke and carbon monoxide to back up into the house. In both these cases, professional chimney sweep services are called for.

As a homeowner, you can keep a close eye on your chimney and its components and be able to tell when something is wrong. However, your “novice” inspections are no replacement for professional chimney inspections performed by certified technicians. If you watch your chimney and schedule annual inspections by a pro, you’ll be taking a big step toward keeping your chimney safe and running optimallyHigh’s Chimney Service of Gaithersburg, MD, provides everything you need for a safe chimney including certified chimney sweep, professional inspection and expert repair services. Call (301) 519-3500 with questions or to schedule an appointment.

 

 

The post Damaged Chimney Signs & Symptoms appeared first on Highs Chimney.

Winter can be a beautiful time of year. But it can also be a turbulent time for your fireplace and chimney. Years of exposure to the constant rain, sleet, and snow can damage even the most well-built chimneys. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prepare your fireplace, heating stove and chimney to weather the dangerous winter storms that may lie ahead.

Chimney Inspection

If you haven’t done so already, now is the time to get a chimney inspection. Hiring a chimney professional for a chimney inspection is vital to make sure your fireplace, heating stove, and chimney are ready for any dangerous winter storms that might occur during the season. The examination will reveal if any repairs need to be made, especially to vulnerable areas like the flashing and chimney crown, where water leaks commonly occur. If your chimney has spalling, leaking, rusting, a damaged crown, or other issues, a winter storm can worsen the problem leading to more extensive repairs after the storm. The inspector will also advise if you need chimney cleaning to remove any obstructions or excessive creosote.

Chimney Cleaning

It would be best if you also had a professional chimney sweep clean your chimney. The chimney sweep will remove the soot, ash, and creosote that has been accumulating in the chimney and fireplace. An accumulation of 1/8″ or more of creosote is a fire hazard and should be removed, according to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). The chimney sweep will also remove any leaves, pests, and other obstructions in the flue that could interfere with the venting of dangerous fumes. Also, high winds from winter storms can create a dangerous downdraft. The sudden gust of wind can push soot and ash through the fireplace and onto the flooring, furniture, and nearby objects. So, it’s a good idea to clean your chimney ahead of any winter storms.

Masonry Repairs & Waterproofing

Because of aging and years of exposure to snowy and rainy conditions, it is not uncommon for chimneys to have some signs of weather damage such as cracked or missing bricks and deteriorated mortar joints. This type of chimney damage should be repaired before approaching winter storms. It is a primary source of water leaks and left unrepaired will only continue to worsen. Severe masonry damage can even cause structural problems. Once masonry repairs are made, ask your chimney professional to apply a waterproof sealant. It will provide additional moisture protection during winter storms.

Replace Worn Damper

The chimney damper is supposed to form an airtight seal when closed. If it doesn’t close tightly, rain, snow, and debris will get inside the flue where it can cause water damage to interior masonry and rust internal components. It also helps prevent drafts and wasted energy when the fireplace is not lit. Replace worn or corroded dampers promptly.

Install a Chase Cover and Chimney Cap

The chimney crown is the uppermost portion of the chimney that bears the brunt of any winter storm. When cracks develop in the surface, water can leak into the interior walls of the stack. Installing a chase cover will protect the cement surface of the chimney crown and provide the chimney with additional moisture protection. A chimney cap should also be installed. A chimney cap is like an umbrella for the flue. It helps prevent moisture, pests, and debris from damaging or obstructing the flue while allowing smoke and exhaust to vent. Chimney caps should have a wire mesh screen that contains a spark arrestor to prevent flying embers from starting a fire on the roof.

The post How to Prepare Your Fireplace for Dangerous Winter Storms appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.

Chimney leaks are one of the most common problems your chimney can have. According to chimney contractors, the leaks are brought about by many factors that include:

Lack of chimney cover

It goes without saying that when your chimney doesn’t have a chimney cover, it allows water to get in. Properly installed fireplace covers not only keep off rain, but they also keep birds, debris, and animals out.

If your chimney doesn’t have a cover, all you need to do is to install one. Unless you are an expert, you should leave the installation work to a chimney technician.

Cracks in the chimney crown

Your chimney will also leak if the chimney crown has cracked. The chimney crown is the cement part at the top of the fireplace. Its role is to prevent rain and snow from falling in and around the chimney tiles.

Cracks in the chimney come about when the chimney shifts or shrinks. As you might guess, when the chimney crown has cracks, water goes right through the cracks.

How you fix a cracked crown depends on how badly damaged the crown is. You should note that even if your crown has a small crack, you have to repair it. This is because it’s the small cracks that get worse over time, and you end up with enormous problems.

If the crown has small cracks, you only need to apply crown coating materials that will cover the masonry and prevent the cracks from getting worse.

If the cracks are large, the best way of fixing the problems is by removing and relaying the masonry. You can do the work if you have the skills, but if you have never done it before, let an expert handle it.

Deteriorated or poorly built chimney shoulder

The chimney shoulder is the sloped area on the stack where it transitions from a broad base to narrow. If you have had your chimney for a long time, the chances are that the masonry has deteriorated, leading to leakages.

Your chimney will also leak if the chimney shoulder is poorly constructed such that it can’t hold off rain and snow.

You need to work with an experienced chimney technician who will help you with inspecting the chimney and determining the extent of the damage.

Deteriorating mortar and masonry

With time, it’s common for the mortar and cement holding the chimney together to age and even crack. When this happens, water falls down inside the chimney and into the house.

In worse situations, the chimney walls in shaded areas stay wet for a long time after rain, and the bricks absorb the water and expel it into the house.

For you to determine if your chimney is having this problem, you should perform the masonry absorption test (MAT).

This test involves placing a test tube on the side of the chimney and gauge how long it takes for the water to get absorbed into the chimney wall.

Depending on the results you get, you will find out whether the chimney needs to be waterproofed.

If you have to seal the chimney, use specialty brick sealants that will prevent water from leaking in without trapping the water inside the bricks, causing damage.

Loose knots and cracks in the wood siding

If your chimney has wood siding, you can have two scenarios. The knots in the wood can get loose or come off. The wood can also get old, dry out, and split.

In both cases, the water can get behind the siding and leak into the chimney. For you to get rid of this problem, you need to work with an expert to inspect the siding and ensure that the siding and chimney are adequately sealed.

Missing flushing

The flashing prevents water from getting to the area where the brick structure comes through the roof. Often made from aluminum, the flashing goes between a few bricks and bends to get to the top of shingles.

To prevent water from getting into the chimney, you need to seal the flashing. Unless you are experienced, let an expert chimney sweep Bowie fix the flashing.

As a rule of thumb, go with a high-quality sealing product that will not only optimally seal the flashing, but also last for a long time.

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

If there is ever a time that you have no heat or hot water, you might be surprised to know that most boilers and furnaces, regardless of the fuel, vent through the chimney. The purpose of the chimney is to carry the flue gasses and exhaust up and out, so it doesn’t vent into the living spaces. As a safety feature, when the boiler or water heater can’t do that, it shuts down.

A chimney is designed to safely and effectively remove dangerous byproducts of burned fuel. When it becomes clogged, it can’t properly perform this important role. Birds’ nests, tree foliage, trash, and other debris can clog your home chimney, making it dangerous to use. Soot and crumbling bricks are also hazardous; if the chimney’s flue is not kept clear, your home is at risk every time the heat kicks on. Your home’s structure and age may also play a part in the overall health of its chimney.

You might think to call the plumber or the heating company, but please read here to know the warning signs of an obstructed chimney and gain a sense when you might call us!

Warning Signs of an Obstructed Chimney

A blocked chimney may be hard to diagnose on your own, but there are some telltale signs to watch for. These warning signs include:

• An exhaust smell when the heat comes on
• No heat or hot water
• Carbon monoxide detector warning
• Excessive soot at the base of the chimney

What Can Cause an Obstruction?

• There are three main causes of chimney blockages:
• An excessive build-up of soot or creosote (tar)
• Birds, squirrels, or other small animals nesting in the chimney
• The collapse of the internal chimney bricks/tiles

Chimney Flue Repair

Clearing an obstructed chimney is a job best left for a professional. We have the tools necessary to reach and remove the debris clogging the flue. How quickly and easily the chimney is cleared will depend on how small the blockage is. To prevent clogs in the future, an annual chimney sweeping is recommended. Regular cleanings will keep your flue clear while also warning you of any potential problems before they turn into costly chimney flue repairs. Installing a chimney cap on the chimney can also help limit the number of clogs your chimney experiences. Stopping debris from entering the system in the first place, can provide a proactive approach to chimney maintenance.

If you suspect an obstructed chimney, contact Boston Best, and we can help diagnose and fix the problem.

The post Signs of an Obstructed Chimney – Chimney Flue Repair appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Many homeowners give attention to their chimneys during the heating season. And it makes sense because this is the time they are using them. While there is nothing wrong with this, you should note that you also should work at keeping your chimney in good shape during the offseason.

In addition to knowing nothing can go wrong when you properly maintain your chimney, you also have peace of mind that your fireplace is ready for winter. So, what activities can you do to keep your fireplace in top shape during the summer months?

Chimney inspection

Most homeowners might be asking, “Why would anyone inspect their chimney when they aren’t using it?” You should know chimney inspection is vital whether you are currently using the fireplace or not.

Chimneys get a beating both on the inside and outside. If you don’t have a chimney cap, the flue tends to deteriorate fast due to repeated exposure to extreme temperatures and acidic creosote.

Since you aren’t using the chimney, summer is the best time to go up the chimney and carefully inspect the flue for any signs of damage. You should fix the problem regardless of how minor it looks.

On the outside, extreme weather conditions wear away the mortar and masonry. When you inspect the chimney you are able to identify the problems early enough and fix them before they get worse.

It’s common for birds and animals to build nests in rarely used chimneys. In addition to increasing the chances of spreading diseases, birds also block the chimney flue which puts your family at the risk of suffocation.

By inspecting the chimney you are able to identify the nests and dead animals early enough and get rid of them before they cause extensive damage.

You can undertake the inspection by yourself or hire an expert to help you out.

Chimney cleaning

You might be wondering why would you clean the chimney when you aren’t using it, right? Well, there is no better time to clean the chimney than in summer.

In addition to paying less for the cleaning, you also get better services as the chimney cleaning professionals aren’t in a hurry to get the work done so they can rush to another venue.

Most contractors aren’t busy at this time; therefore, they don’t do the cleaning work in haste. They also give you better discounts as there isn’t a lot of demand for chimney cleaning services.

For you to get the best services, don’t hire a contractor based solely on the price they charge. Pay close attention to their expertise. You want a professional who will perfectly clean the chimney without leaving anything to chance.

You also should consider whether the contractor is insured. You are better off working with an insured professional as you are sure that in the event of an accident the insurance company will take care of the costs.

Install the chimney cap

The chimney cap is located at the very top of the chimney. When complete and properly installed, the cap prevents moisture, animals, birds, debris, and other materials from getting into the chimney.

The chimney cap also functions as a spark guard where it prevents the hot embers from catching the roof and setting the combustible materials on fire.

Unless you have masonry skills, you should let an expert handle the installation.

Install a cricket

Is your roof too steep that it inundates the chimney with water when it rains? You need to have cricket in place. The cricket functions like an added ridge in the roofline that diverts water. The cricket also protects and extends the life of the fireplace.

Again, if you have the skills you should install the cricket by yourself but if you have never done it before, let an expert handle it.

Upgrade the chimney with an insert

There is no better time to upgrade the fireplace than during the offseason. A fireplace insert increases the efficiency of the fireplace so when the heating season comes, you spend less to keep the house warm.

Fireplace inserts come in different sizes, colors, and designs. For you to install the right one, work with experienced chimney contractors  to help you make the decision.

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

Superior Chimney was fortunate to get time out of Santa’s
busy schedule to ask him about December 25^th. We thought it would be
best to ask an expert on chimney travels. Here’s what he had to say:

SC: Thank you Santa for allowing us to speak with you for a few minutes. We’ll share your answers with all those that celebrate the Holiday Season by the fireplace. We understand that you land on the roof with your sleigh, and make your way into the chimney. Do chimney caps stop you from entering?

Santa: Ho, ho, ho. No, chimney caps are fine for me. I prefer houses with chimney caps so critters can get their presents from me in their natural home. It also helps keep the leaves outside. Dried leaves are very noisy.

SC: Once you make your way down the chimney, what should we
watch for you make your trip easier?

Santa: For safety reasons, be sure to keep your Christmas
tree and presents away from the fireplace. The beautiful Christmas wrappings do
catch on fire quickly, so as you unwrap the presents don’t throw it into the fireplace
or keep it near the open flames. Also, when the tree and presents are not by
the fireplace, it gives me and my bag of presents more room to work.

SC: Does it help to have the chimney cleaned before you come?

Santa:  Ho, ho, ho. That creosote does end up on my red jacket! Do get it cleaned as creosote is flammable. Better to keep everyone safe!

SC: Where do you like for all your fans to place your milk
and cookies?

Santa: By the fireplace of course!

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