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Are Chimney Rebuilds that Obvious?

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

The Importance of Furnace Flue Inspections

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

How to Tell If a Chimney Is Blocked

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.

The post How to Tell If a Chimney Is Blocked first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

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

What To Do About a Chimney Leak?!

A chimney can be an obvious place where a chimney leak can occur. The chimney extends to the sky, many times as the highest point of your home. Not to mention, there’s a hole at the top that needs to be covered, and cement and bricks that are porous! It’s pretty obvious that chimney leaks can occur all year round.

What are some signs of a chimney leak?

  • A pool of a water in the fireplace
  • White discoloration on the outside of your chimney
  • Musty odors coming from the chimney
  • Dampness in your home
  • The dripping sound of water
  • Stains on the ceiling near the fireplace

A not so obvious or visual reason for a chimney leak include deterioration on the outside of your chimney. Do you notice any of these indicators of a chimney leak in your home? If your answer is yes, call Superior Chimney as soon as possible! As summer begins in the Chicagoland area, we will only experience more rain storms, and the damage from water leaks will only get worse with time. 

5 Reason for a Chimney Leak

  1. You don’t have a chimney cap, or it’s broken. We talked a lot about chimney caps in our past blogs. A chimney needs a cap for the same reasons a house needs a roof!  They’re so important in keeping your chimney in tip-top shape. A chimney cap keeps most of the rainwater from falling into the flue, and pooling in the fireplace. A damaged chimney cap will cause water to leak into your home.
  2. Cracks in the chimney crown. A chimney crown is the cement part of your chimney that keeps water from dripping onto the bricks, stone or siding. If the cracks in the chimney crown are big enough, water will drip through. Cracking on the chimney crown is not uncommon, but it’s important to keep up with the maintenance of repairing them. Hairline cracks are bad enough, the bigger the cracks get, the worse the leaking!
  3. Condensation. If you’ve already replaced your chimney cap and crown and still suspect a chimney leak, then condensation might be your problem. There may be a structural problem with your chimney, and a professional will have to check to make sure warm gasses are not becoming stuck in the flue, and creating condensation leaks.
  4. Gaps in the flashing. Flashings seal the base of your chimney. They’re meant to stop water from getting into your home. But, the flashing doesn’t last forever. If there’s a weathered seal, or the flashing is lifting up, water will make its way in.
  5. Masonry Cracks. This is a common reason for a chimney leak. Cracks in masonry are caused by the freeze thaw cycle in fall, winter and spring. Water is absorbed in the masonry and creates cracks. The cracks become bigger over time, and eventually will lead to chimney leaks.

Repairing a Chimney Leak

Worried you have a chimney leak? Maybe you noticed something in your home. Superior Chimney certified technicians can help. Our chimney inspections are thorough and professionally presented. Call us to book an inspection at 877-244-6349.

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

A Smelly House… After Spring Cleaning?

Worried about removing the fireplace smell this year? Once you’ve finished with scrubbing your home from top to bottom, you might have noticed a strange smell still coming from around your fireplace. It can be a strong or subtle odor that seems impossible to get rid of! Maybe you’ve tried to put some baking powder and vinegar in the fireplace, or double dosed the fireplace with cleaning liquids, yet the smell still won’t go away. Well, recently in the Chicagoland area, we’ve had plenty of humid weather. Humid weather doesn’t help with the fireplace smell. The more rain and water the chimney is exposed to, the more intense the smell becomes. So, is it possible to remove the fireplace smell, even with this humid weather?

A Simple Answer: Yes!

The answer is yes! It’s entirely possible to remove the fireplace smell year round, even in humid, hot weather. Creosote is a dark, oily substance that forms when wood is burned. It is made up of various chemicals that give it a distinct, pungent smell. When creosote builds up in a chimney or fireplace, it can create a strong, unpleasant odor that can stick around in your home. A simple douse down of cleaning liquids like bleach or vinegar and baking powder won’t do the trick, because creosote is built up in the smoke chamber & chimney flue, not the fireplace firebox. The chimney flue is a long exhaust flue that connects the fireplace to the outside, removing smoke and harmful chemicals from your home. Creosote naturally builds up over the course of winter time. The more you use your chimney, the more creosote builds up. As the air from the outside moves down through the flue, it pushes down the musty smell of creosote into your home. 

Solving A Smelly Home

Luckily, our certified chimney technicians can help remove the creosote from the flue. Chimney professionals can check for pressure problems and cracks in the masonry around the flue, to make sure the creosote doesn’t get stuck in there. Did you know that if the creosote gets stuck in the cracks of your chimney, you might experience a chimney fire? Creosote does not only smell bad, but is also flammable. It’s really important to get your chimney checked by a certified technician. 

Think You Can Spot All the Cracks?

Cleaning your chimney is a bit like playing Eye-Spy, but with a twist. Chimney technicians at Superior Chimney don’t recommend you to clean the creosote on your own. If you miss a crack, the smelly creosote will become a danger when you light up your fireplace again. Take caution when checking your chimney flue for creosote buildup. Or, simply call a certified chimney professional for an inspection.

At Superior Chimney, we specialize in identifying cracks in your chimney, malfunctioning parts, or further damages. With a proper chimney flue and fireplace sweep and inspection, the smell of creosote can fade away from your home, and leave you with how your home should be smelling; like cleaning liquid and air freshener!

Call us at Superior Chimney today for an appointment at 877-244-6349 for an inspection to find out how to be rid of fireplace smells.

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

Why Is My Chimney Leaning? 

Exactly what is going on? My chimney seems to be leaning. I’ve had no weather events to cause such a lean. So, what is going on?

leaning chimney in Canton CT

Most commonly it is due to the foundation, but let’s discuss other common reasons.

  • Your chimney is poorly constructed. Not all companies are created equal, unfortunately.
  • Age has taken over and the masonry has started to break down.
  • Newer homes have cement chimney footings and are stronger. If you own an older home, you may have footings that cannot support the chimney. The weight of a chimney may be causing the lean.
  • The size of the chimney footing may not be appropriately sized to support the chimney in your home. Often the material used is not the best quality. This can cause faulty footings.
  • Soil erosion may be a cause of a footing being displaced, causing a lean to your chimney.
  • Proper drainage can be a cause as well. If you have water that stands at the footing it can cause the soil to move.  

We talked about the causes of a leaning chimney. Now let us discuss the signs that you need to look for.

What Are The Signs Of A Leaning Chimney?

You can see that the chimney is leaning. If you notice the chimney leaning it is time to place that call to Northeastern Chimney Inc.

You may see water or condensation in your firebox. Or you may see it on the ceiling around your chimney. These are signs that you have an issue with water, and it may be contributing to a leaning chimney.

If you see that the smoke is not exiting the chimney as it used to. You may have a leaning chimney. Try to make all the adjustments that are needed to correct this. Be sure you are burning dry wood, and you have proper ventilation. Also, try warming the chimney before lighting a fire. If you have tried all the tricks to get the smoke to exit and are still having no luck. Call us for an inspection. We can give you answers.

You are starting to notice crumbling bricks and mortar. As a leaning chimney adjusts, it moves ever so slightly. This causes the bricks to shift and the mortar to become loose. 

chimney inspections and cleaning in St Windsor LocksDo you believe that your chimney is leaning?

Your best attack would be to call Northeastern Chimney Inc. for a full inspection. You don’t want something like a leaning chimney to go for too long. Once you start to see changes, it does not mean that the issues have just begun. 

Schedule your inspection or cleaning soon by calling Northeastern Chimney Inc. at 860-233-5770. We will be able to book an appointment that works with your schedule. We have all the equipment needed for all sorts of chimneys.

Our certified chimney technicians provide quality chimney sweep services including chimney repairs, chimney cleaning, and chimney rebuilding for residents in West Hartford, East Windsor, Farmington, Glastonbury, Wethersfield, Marlborough, Cromwell, and the surrounding Central Connecticut area.

The post Why Is My Chimney Leaning?  appeared first on .

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

What Causes Soot Build-Up 

What is Creosote?

Before we can talk about what causes soot buildup, we need to discuss what creosote is. Creosote is the buildup of burnt wood and coal. It is a dangerous byproduct that stays in your chimney until it is removed. Creosote solidifies and sticks to your chimney.

soot build up in your home in Canton CTWhat Causes This Build-Up?

There are many contributing factors to why creosote builds up in your fireplace. It could be from unseasoned wood, poor maintenance, or inadequate oxygen. Let us discuss some of the causes.

  • By not burning the right type of wood. Burning wood that is wet or not seasoned will only cause concerns later on. Also, smoke that billows from your fireplace. Only burn well-seasoned or cured wood. Wood should be seasoned for at least 6 months before burning. Seasoned wood burns the best. 
  • Burn hardwood. Wood such as oak, ash, birch, or maple. These woods will burn the hottest, allowing the resin from the burning to go right up the chimney.
  • Be sure that the fire is getting enough oxygen. The damper should be opened before starting a fire. Open the glass doors slightly. This will ensure proper oxygen for the fire. 
  • Warm up a cold flue. This will avoid condensation collecting in the chimney which encourages creosote. Light a rolled-up piece of newspaper. Place it up the chimney to warm the chimney a bit before actually lighting the fire. This will prevent the condensation buildup which starts when a fire is started in a cold chimney.
  • A fireplace and chimney that has accumulated creosote will continue to build up. Have an annual chimney sweep to clean out any creosote that accumulated over the year. 

What Harm Can Creosote Cause?

Being a byproduct of slow-burning wood, creosote can be dangerous in several ways. 

  • Skin irritation. Creosote can irritate the skin. Severe eye Burning, rash, and itching as well.
  • Breathing. The respiratory tract can be jeopardized when breathing in coal tar creosote.
  • Fire hazard. The buildup of creosote in the chimney can cause a serious risk of fire. Signs of a creosote fire would be dense black smoke, and cracking and popping sounds. As well as an intense burning smell. A chimney fire can cause damage to the chimney lining beyond repair. It can cause a house fire.

chimney cleaning in Avon CT

If there is a concern of buildup of creosote in your chimney it is time to contact Northeastern Chimney. It is time for a chimney cleaning and inspection. Don’t delay. For the safety of you, your family, and your home. We are more than happy to help you with any concerns. 

Schedule your inspection or cleaning soon by calling Northeastern Chimney at 860-233-5770. We can clean your chimney no matter what bend or curve you have. We come with all the equipment needed for all sorts of chimneys. Our certified chimney technicians provide quality chimney sweep services including chimney repairs, chimney cleaning, and chimney rebuilding for residents in West Hartford, East Windsor, Farmington, Glastonbury, Wethersfield, Marlborough, Cromwell and the surrounding Central Connecticut area.

The post What Causes Soot Build-Up  appeared first on .

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

The Essential Guide to Exterior Chimney Care

Protecting Your Home and Hearth

It is hard to believe it’s June already and as the seasons change and we welcome the warmth of summer, it’s easy to forget about the fireplace and chimney that has kept us cozy during the colder months. Did you know that exterior chimney care is not just a winter concern? It’s a year-round commitment that can prevent costly repairs and ensure the safety of your home.

Why Exterior Chimney Care Matters:

Your chimney is constantly exposed to the elements, from the scorching sun to the freezing snow. This exposure can lead to deterioration, which not only affects the appearance of your home but can also pose serious risks.

Here are some reasons why exterior chimney care is crucial: (read more)

Prevents Water Damage:

Cracks or missing mortar can allow water to seep in, causing structural damage and mold growth.

Maintains Structural Integrity:

Regular inspections and repairs keep your chimney strong and functional.

Enhances Efficiency:

A well-maintained chimney provides optimal airflow, which is essential for efficient venting.

Ensures Safety:

Blockages or damage can lead to dangerous situations like chimney fires or carbon monoxide leaks.

Here’s a simple checklist to keep your chimney in top shape during the summer:

Inspect the Exterior:

Look for any signs of damage or wear and schedule repairs if needed.

Sweep the Chimney Flue:

Remove any debris to prevent blockages.

Check for Vegetation:

Trim any overhanging branches or vines that could damage the chimney.

Waterproofing:

Consider applying a waterproof sealant to protect against moisture.

Remember, chimney care is not just about aesthetics; it’s about safety and efficiency. By taking proactive steps now, you can avoid the rush of autumn repairs and enjoy peace of mind all year long.

Enjoy every moment of the warmer months and be prepared and protected to stay safe and Warm, all year through!

The post The Essential Guide to Exterior Chimney Care appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

The Importance of Post-Winter Industrial Stack Inspections

Once the harsh winter weather comes to an end and the warm spring temperatures arrive, it’s the perfect time to add a post-winter industrial stack inspection to your spring cleaning list for your chimney. A post-winter industrial stack inspection sets you off on the right foot for the season by verifying the stack’s state and its ability to operate efficiently all season long.

At Best Chimney Services, we prioritize our clients’ needs to ensure their chimneys are in good working condition throughout every season of the year. We have been providing residential chimney services and commercial chimney services since 1989. If you’re in the Boston area, we urge you to give us a call with any of your chimney needs. In the meantime, learn why we highly recommend a post-winter industrial stack inspection below.

Post-Winter Cleanup 

During the winter, commercial chimney stacks are in high demand venting the exhaust from using heat and hot water all season long day-in and day-out.  Needless to say, the more you use this equipment, the more your chimney stack will accumulate byproducts like soot, creosote, and carbon. Accumulation of these byproducts can lead to respiratory problems, or worse, carbon monoxide being released back into the building. A post-winter inspection will give you peace of mind that the system is in good working order.  

Assess for Damage

With harsh cold weather, conditions like snow, freezing rain, and below-zero temperatures are expected. However, this weather can worsen any existing damage on your chimney stack. Moisture from snow, ice, and rain can get into any cracks and seams in your chimney stack, increasing the damage. If you’ve noticed any new cracks, rust, or crumbling since the snow has melted, then it’s most likely a sign that your industrial chimney stack needs repair. When you book a post-winter inspection, a chimney technician will check for these problems in the cracks and gaps to see if any damage has developed. 

Internal Decay

The chimney flue vent’s main purpose is to contain the byproducts of combustion and carry them up and out into the atmosphere.  These byproducts consist of nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and other dangerous pollutants that would otherwise seep out of the passageway and back into the building envelope.  An inspection will allow a technician to identify if there is any cause for concern, and if so, how to remedy it to reduce this dangerous risk.

Reduces the Risk of Costly Damages

When chimney maintenance is ignored, you’re not only putting the people in your building at risk but also creating a headache for yourself. By prioritizing necessary inspections for your commercial chimney, you’re reducing the chances of problems arising from pre-existing damage or deterioration that you can’t spot yourself. Help avoid costly repairs by talking with your local chimney company today.

Book Your Post-Winter Industrial Stack Inspection with Best Chimney Services

Scheduling an inspection post-winter is essential for you to detect and address any damage or buildup caused by cold weather and usage. Give us a call today to get started on a routine path of chimney maintenance so that you don’t have to worry about the functionality or safety of your stack.

The post The Importance of Post-Winter Industrial Stack Inspections appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Why Your Chimney Cap is Rusting

Your chimney cap plays a crucial role in protecting your home and chimney from the weather and outdoor elements, but what happens when your chimney cap is rusting? Rust on your chimney cap is something you want to take care of as soon as possible because ongoing rust can lead to costly structural issues within the chimney if ignored. 

At Best Chimney Services, we strive to provide excellent and knowledgeable chimney services for those in the Boston area. When you work with our technicians, they’ll help alleviate your chimney concerns and provide advice to keep your chimney in its best condition. Schedule an appointment with us today to stay up to date on your chimney’s maintenance. In the meantime, explore the common causes of chimney cap rusting and how to prevent it in the future, below.

Low-Quality Chimney Cap

Simply put, professionally installed chimney caps shouldn’t rust.  If you had a chimney cap installed made from low-quality materials or a cap lacking proper protective coatings, then that may be your cause for the rust. Low-quality chimney caps are more prone to rusting because they’re not made of durable metals. We recommend investing in a chimney cap made of high-quality materials, like stainless steel; this can significantly reduce the risk of corrosion.

Exposure to Moisture

One of the primary reasons for chimney cap rusting is exposure to moisture. Dealing with any form of moisture in your chimney is a danger, but it doesn’t always originate from exterior factors.   Condensation and water vapor are a natural byproduct of combustion, but when mixed with the other components of solid and liquid fuels, it creates a highly corrosive acid that deteriorates metal.  

Lack of Chimney Maintenance

If you’re neglecting regular chimney inspections, then it’s very possible that this is contributing to the formation of rust. Without proper cleaning and inspection, soot and tar fog mix with moisture and accelerate corrosion.

Harsh Weather

Harsh weather and environmental factors, such as salt air in coastal areas and constant humid weather, can expedite the rusting on your chimney cap.  Rain, snow, or even high humidity levels can cause water to build up on the chimney cap’s surface and cause these inferior metals to corrode. If you’re having this problem, we recommend swapping out your existing cap for a new stainless steel one.

How to Prevent Your Chimney Cap from Rusting

Regular Cleaning and Inspection

Schedule regular chimney inspections and cleanings to remove debris and identify any signs of rusting early on. Taking action early on can prevent and remove minor rust spots from developing into more significant issues.

Installation of Stainless Steel Chimney Caps

As we mentioned previously, the type of chimney cap you install matters. Consider replacing your current chimney cap with a stainless steel option to reduce the chance of rusting. These materials are highly resistant to corrosion and can provide long-lasting protection for your chimney.

Addressing Structural Issues

If rusting has already caused damage to your chimney cap, it’s essential to address these issues promptly. Consult with a professional chimney technician to assess the extent of the damage and determine the most effective repair or replacement options.

Call Best Chimney Services to Replace Your Chimney Cap 

Your chimney cap is integral to preserving your chimney’s operations, so don’t overlook its importance! Now that you understand why your chimney cap is rusting, you can prolong its lifespan and avoid having to replace it frequently. If you’re starting to notice your chimney cap corroding or rusting, give us a call today for help! 

The post Why Your Chimney Cap is Rusting appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

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