Stone or brick masonry, gas or wood burning…There are many types of chimneys out there! Are you wondering what type of chimney you have in your home? Knowing the type of chimney you have is important for proper maintenance. In this article, we will discuss the different types of chimneys, their characteristics, and how to identify which type you have in your home.

Stone vs. Brick Masonry Chimneys

There are lots of different styles and designs of chimneys. You might have noticed a few of them while walking around your neighborhood. The most popular chimney type is brick masonry. This type of chimney is great if you like a more traditional home look. Maintenance and upkeep of a brick masonry chimney can be challenging, as the materials such as mortar and brick are porous. Over time, the constant exposure to the elements deteriorates the masonry and brick. In the Chicagoland area, this can be a real challenge, with spring and summer storms and winter snow.

Another common chimney type you might have seen around your neighborhood are stone chimneys. Stone chimneys aren’t too structurally different from brick chimneys. Stones are held together with the same porous mortar, which deteriorates over time.

Gas Chimneys

Gas chimneys are different from stone and brick masonry chimneys. Gas chimneys have a different structure, inside and out. On larger buildings, like apartments, you might notice small pipes attached to a gas heater inside which then leads to a small vent outside. The vent looks like a metal pipe sticking out of the building. This type of chimney generally experiences the least amount of water damage. 

Metal Chimneys

Metal chimneys are best made of stainless steel and are used with modern fireplaces. They are lightweight, but don’t provide as much insulation as stone or brick chimneys.

Is there “a Best” Chimney Type? Your preference is what chimney type is best for you! Let’s find out what that is. Aesthetically pleasing stone or brick masonry chimneys that are pleasing to the eye, or a metal chimney that looks more contemporary and cleaner. However, whatever your preference is or chimney you currently have, you still must have your chimney inspected once a year. A certified technician will help with inspecting the inside and outside of your chimney to make sure that it’s fireworthy and in good, working order. Though a metal chimney requires less repair, it’s still important to get it swept and checked by a certified technician once a year. Leaks happen to all chimney types and build up occurs as well. If you are interested in looking into the type of chimney you have and want to keep it in good working order for the coming fall and winter, call Superior Chimney for an inspection today at 877-244-6349.

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

When you get a bigger project done such as tuckpointing the chimney, or partially rebuilding the chimney, it seems like it was just completed yesterday.

A customer recently called and asked for one of our masonry tech experts to inspect the chimney. When we looked up the customer’s name and address, we found that the project was completed just about ten years ago. When we shared that with the customer, she said, “What? That was ten years ago!” “It seems like yesterday when you were here repairing the chimney.” We take that as a compliment.

It’s Lonely at the Top

When a company, like Superior Chimney, takes quality of work seriously, comments like this customer are regularly shared. That’s because ‘Peace of mind’ and trust are important. Homeowners don’t get to climb up on the roof to ‘see’ what’s going on. Homeowners don’t think about the chimney unless you find water stains on your walls or hear dripping water in the fireplace. That’s why Superior Chimney is important to the overall health of your home.

Start from the Outside

The chimney is the highest point on your home. It stands tall each day through all of the rain, sun, snow, wind, hail and whatever else Mother Nature has in store. Those elements hit, slam and pound at the chimney from every direction, challenging its integrity. One slip up, and the water, debris and animals are coming in!

• Tuckpointing the chimney is critical! Missing mortar is like a door that just swung open and said, “come on in!” Clearly, we’re open.
• Loose Bricks or Stone – When there’s missing or loose mortar, you can be sure the bricks or stones are loose as well. What happens when the bricks or stones are loose? They can fall away from the chimney exposing the interior of the chimney, and encouraging much faster deterioration.

How Do You Know the Above Problems Exist?

During the inspection, the certified chimney technician takes pictures of the chimney. We point out the good and the areas that need repair. With the pictures, we discuss what the issue may be, explain what we do to repair it and discuss what it will look…and perform like in the end.

We believe this is a critical part of the ‘peace of mind’ and trust that we build with our customers. With every satisfied customer, we know that when you have a question, you’ll be giving us a call, just like the customer we shared at the beginning of our story.

Be a part of the Superior Chimney family. Contact us today.

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

According to estimates from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), creosote is the leading cause of one-fourth of home fires in the US, with 25,000 incidents reported every year.

One of the reasons for this is that many homeowners don’t hire chimney cleaning services to clean their chimney as often as they should.

When you have a chimney fire, you might wonder what to do. Well, there are several precautions you should take. These precautions include:

Get everyone out

Everyone should leave the house as soon as possible if you suspect a chimney fire has started. By doing this, you’ll be able to limit the quantity of oxygen that the fire can absorb and prevent larger flames from spreading.

Getting everyone outside will also stop pets from escaping into the burning rooms. If you have children living in your house, this is especially crucial.

Using the right fireplace tools whenever you use a wood stove or fireplace is a way to avoid chimney fires. Doing so can help produce an updraft that will force the smoke up the chimney and out of your room.

Along with following these simple guidelines, you can hire a cleaning expert to clean your chimney regularly, which will help avert chimney fires before they start.

This is a crucial step since chimney fires can be quite dangerous, especially those that burn slowly.

Close all the openings

The purpose of your chimney system is to keep smoke, fumes, and flammable gasses out of your house. It must, therefore, be thoroughly inspected and cleaned regularly.

The flue is the hole in your chimney where smoke travels. It should be the right size to fit the capacity and chimney height of your stove.

Dampers are installed inside the flue to help regulate ventilation and keep a fire from getting too hot. When the fire isn’t burning, they also prevent cold air from entering.

There could be major issues if you open the damper when there is a fire. Your fire will have difficulty getting oxygen, producing smoke and carbon monoxide.

While the fire is blazing, the damper can be turned off by pulling chains at the inner front of the fireplace or by pressing a lever. As long as you know what you’re doing, that method is safe.

Put out the fire

Make sure your flue and fireplace are kept clean and clean of combustible materials to prevent chimney fires. This includes burning glossy pages, cardboard, and paper, spilling chemicals up the chimney, and discharging toxins into the air.

Additionally, you should keep the duration of your fire to no more than five hours per day. You should note that spending too much time in the fire can harm your chimney and possibly ignite a fire inside your house.

It is challenging for you and your family to experience a chimney fire. A chimney fire can spread quickly and endanger the building’s structure or demolish your home’s internal walls if not put out.

First, open the fireplace damper to put out the fire. Make sure to open the damper slowly because leaving it open too quickly could result in the start of another fire inside your house.

Get in touch with the fire department.

You must notify your local fire department and get everyone out of the house when you discover a chimney fire. In addition to putting out the fire, they can determine whether it has spread to other areas of your home.

A chimney fire can potentially destroy both your house’s structure and your life. It may even result in severe harm.

There are multiple indicators that a chimney fire might be present. Some are obvious, like a strong smell coming from your house.

Flue tile damage and potential flue wall cracks might result from a slow-burning chimney fire that burns through the exterior of your chimney.

Another indication that a chimney fire has occurred is the presence of melted roof shingles and other accessories.

In addition, keep an eye out for any additional indicators of a chimney fire, such as falling ash or loose soot down your chimney or blazing materials inside your chimney.

Ways to prevent chimney fires

You can significantly lower the risk of chimney fires and guarantee the security of your house and family by being aware of these issues and implementing the appropriate safety procedures. The common problems that will prevent chimney fires include:

Frequent Chimney Sweeping: To reduce the chance of a chimney fire, schedule routine sweeping. The kind of fuel being consumed determines how often sweeping is necessary.

If you are wondering how often you should clean your chimney, here are recommendations based on fire-prone appliances:

• Oil: Yearly
• Gas: Yearly
• Twice a year for bituminous coal
• Burning wood: Four times or more annually
• Burning smokeless fuels (such as coal): At least one time annually

Prevent burning wet wood: Ensure the wood you burn has no more than 17% moisture content. Burning damp wood increases the risk of creosote buildup and chimney fires because it causes incomplete combustion.

Use a fireguard while using open fires: To avoid embers that are smoldering and sparks that are flying, generating a fire hazard, use a fireguard when using open fires. The fireguard will control any possible sparks and embers near the fireplace.

Keep combustible items and dangerous compounds out of children’s reach: It’s critical to keep combustible items and hazardous compounds out of children’s reach. To avoid mishaps, chimney contractors Columbia MD recommend keeping kids away from fire hazards.

Keep wood and fuel away from the fire to prevent unintentional ignition of nearby objects like flammable materials or supplies meant for burning by flying sparks. Ensure that you keep every igneous substance at a safe distance from the hearth.

The post What Precautions Should You Take During a Chimney Fire? first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

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

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

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

Creosote accumulation

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

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

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

High moisture levels

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

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

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

House airflow problems

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

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

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

Dead animals and debris

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tricks to get rid of the fireplace smells

Keep the chimney clean all the time

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

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

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

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

Absorb the smells using charcoal.

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

Deodorize your chimney with vinegar.

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

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

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

Undertake monthly inspections

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cracked or Spalling Bricks

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

Damaged Mortar Joints

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

White Staining (Efflorescence)

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

Rust

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

Firebox Damage

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

Unpleasant Odors

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

Book an Inspection with Best Chimney Services this Summer

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

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

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

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

Dry Weather Conditions

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

More Availability for Chimney Technicians

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

Preparing for When You Use Your Heating System

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

Preventative Maintenance

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

Call Best Chimney this Summer for Your Chimney Repairs and Cleaning

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

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

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

Understanding Chimney Swifts:

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

The Predicament of Masonry Chimneys:

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

Addressing Concerns and Legal Implications:

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

Responsible Management Strategies:

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

The Importance of Timing:

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

Conclusion:

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

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

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

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

Other Structural Mishaps that are Hard to Tell

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

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

What is a Partial Rebuild?

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

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

Avoiding Damage in the Future

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

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

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

Why are Furnace Flue Inspections Important?

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

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

What are the Hazards of an Uninspected Furnace Flues?

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

The Importance of Proper Venting

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What can cause a chimney blockage?

Animals inside the chimney

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

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

Creosote buildup

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

Natural causes

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

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

What can go wrong when your chimney is blocked?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to remove a chimney blockage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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