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Getting your fireplace and chimney ready for another winter season involves making sure it’s clean and that the structure and components are all in good shape. For chimneys connected to wood-burning fireplaces and inserts, chimney sweeping is a necessary maintenance task that’s just as important as seeing to any minor repairs that might be needed.

Here are four reasons to schedule chimney cleaning and maintenance before the fall rush

Things are slower in the spring and summer

Chimney sweeps tend to get busy once the cold weather hits. For some reason, that’s the time most people start thinking about what they need to do to get their chimney ready for winter. By scheduling your annual chimney cleaning visit before the weather turns, you have a much better chance of getting your technician to your home at a time that’s convenient for you.

Milder weather is better for certain chimney repairs

Chimney repair work that involves a mortar mixture will be more effective before outside temperatures get seriously cold. This work includes tuckpointing, chimney crown rebuilding, smoke chamber parging, and other select tasks.

Traffic inside your house

Chimney cleaning, damper replacement, fireplace insert installations, firebox repair, and certain other jobs require the technician to access the interior of your home. This foot traffic is less problematic during mild weather than during sloppy, snowy weather.

Safer for the technician

Finally, nice weather makes the outside jobs of repair, component installation, and inspection simpler and safer for your chimney technician.

Why your chimney should be swept once a year

No matter when you’re able to arrange for service, your chimney flue should be professionally cleaned once a year to prevent chimney fires and drafting problems.

CSIA-certified chimney sweeps perform two primary jobs:

Creosote removal: Excess creosote is a chimney fire waiting to happen. Creosote is highly flammable and increases in amount every time you burn wood in your fireplace.

Most fire-safety agencies and chimney-safety organizations in the United States recommend annual chimney sweeping for chimneys that vent wood-burning appliances. The majority of chimney fires are started by creosote, so a yearly visit from a trained chimney sweep is the best way to prevent one of these destructive events.

Obstruction removal: Debris such as falling leaves and twigs as well as the nests of small animals like squirrels and birds can cause drafting obstructions in chimneys. When airflow is restricted, smoke can back up into your home.

Worse than smoke, however, is the carbon monoxide it contains. This gas is invisible and odorless, but it has been shown to be poisonous and potentially fatal to humans and animals. (Note that if your chimney has no chimney cap or flue cover, installing one of these devices will keep debris out of your chimney.)

The best recipe for a safe and reliable chimney

Keeping your chimney running safely and optimally isn’t hard when you remember to schedule your chimney sweep visits, inspections, and repair work early before winter really digs in. By hiring a company that holds certifications through the Chimney Safety Institute of America, you know the work will be done by highly trained and experienced technicians who care about you and your home.

Is it time to get your chimney cleaned and inspected? High’s Chimney Service of Gaithersburg, MD, provides certified chimney sweep, chimney inspection, and chimney repair services that you can count on. Reach us at (301) 519-3500 with questions or to schedule an appointment.

 

The post Schedule A Chimney Sweep Before The Fall Rush appeared first on Highs Chimney.

Fireplace backdrafting is often a problem on all levels of new homes, especially basement fireplaces. The common issue with newer construction is that homes are far more airtight than they were in former times. Our homes, in effect, breathe, as though living things, and fresh air is exchanged for stagnant, stale air. Negative pressure often results from appliances that push air from the home, as well, including stove exhausts, clothes dryers, and bathroom fans. In the meantime, fireplaces need a supply of air to function properly, and basement fireplaces need air most desperately because of something called the “stack effect.”

What is the Stack Effect?

The stack effect is created in homes due to differences in air pressure, and it has to do with the way air moves into and out of homes. Warm air moves upward, reducing the air pressure in airtight building envelopes unless there is some type of ventilation. The stack effect is more pronounced in summer and winter when indoor-outdoor temperature differences are greatest. Shorter homes have less of a stack effect than taller homes. 

 

Being located at the lowest point, basements are most vulnerable to problems caused by the stack effect. Chimney drafts tend to be weak, which means maintaining an efficient basement fire can be challenging. Instead of air naturally traveling up the chimney, as it is supposed to, basement chimneys often act as the outdoor air supply for the home. Reversing the airflow to enjoy fires from a basement fireplace can be a battle. Fortunately, chimney professionals can help homeowners find solutions to get hearth appliances operating efficiently.

Two Fireplaces, One Chimney Chase

When a basement fireplace shares a chimney chase or exterior chimney with a fireplace on another floor, issues tend to arise. When the upper-level wood-burning fireplace is burned, the smoke will usually exit through the chimney and then get pulled back into the home through the basement fireplace flue.

If smoke is crossing from one flue into the other without having to first go outside, it means there is flue damage and the toxic fumes are escaping into places where they don’t belong. A chimney professional should be called without delay in this case because toxic gases could leak into living areas of the home. Occupants can be exposed to deadly carbon monoxide. 

Stinky Basement Fireplaces

When the basement fireplace becomes the air supply for the home, it means that the unpleasant odors in the flue can create strong basement odors and perhaps spread to other parts of the home, too. The smell can worsen in the following conditions:

• Toxic, highly flammable creosote is a material that gets deposited inside flue linings with every wood fire. The more of the smelly creosote there is in your chimney, the stronger the stinky odor you may smell from your basement fireplace.
• Humid, damp air makes bad smells even worse.

Contact Northeastern Chimney Today

For CSIA-certified chimney sweeps in West Harford, CT, and the surrounding area, contact Northeastern Chimney. We can help by solving drafting problems as well as providing all of the reliable chimney services you may need. Our professional technicians perform chimney inspections, chimney sweeping, masonry repair, chimney cap installation, and much more. Schedule an appointment by calling  860-233-5770 today.

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

The wind and rain storm was a short burst, but it left quite a mess in its path. At first glance, tree branches were everywhere. The entire front and back yards, including the sidewalk and driveway were littered with tree branches and leaves of all sizes.

The next day, I decided to go for a walk around the neighborhood. Partly for exercise, but I was mostly curious as to the extent of the damage caused by the high winds. Here’s a few of the houses with chimney damage on my route:

• Chimney Caps: With 70+ mph winds, chimney caps ended up in the neighbor’s yard…3 houses down. A few homeowners were reluctant to install a new chimney cap. It is definitely worth the time and effort. Here’s why:
  • The chimney cap will keep the critters out – Raccoons, squirrels, birds, bats, etc.  Cool weather is just around the corner and they will be looking for a cozy place to sleep. Your house seems nice with no cap!
  • Debris from trees, dust, or whatever the wind can swirl up will come down and find that perfect spot to land…right in your chimney.
  • Chimney caps keep moisture out. A chimney cap can act like a tent or an umbrella keeping rain, snow and hail from entering your home. If moisture gets in, it can corrode the chimney liner, and create mold and mildew. All those smells. Yum?
  • Wind…and we have some…can create a downdraft. If a strong wind blows into your chimney you can have a smoke-filled room. The chimney cap can present wind from blowing into your home.
• Chimney Fell Over: It’s amazing what a little wind can do. A pile of bricks or stone lay on the rooftop and on the ground. The homeowners didn’t realize the chimney mortar had deteriorated allowing the wind to finish the job. When a chimney falls over, this may lead to a total chimney rebuild. A chimney rebuild is when the outer layer of brick needs to be replaced including the chimney crown. Most times, the firebox, smoke chamber and hearth remain intact.
• Water Leak(s): Water leaks happen when you don’t have a chimney cap or when the mortar has deteriorated.  

There are other factors as well such as flashing. Flashing is the protectant between the chimney and roofing system. Flashing keeps the water from entering any weak points where the chimney and roof meet.

Another factor is the chimney crown. If the concrete chimney crown is cracked, water will find its way in. A crack becomes larger over time when we change seasons…hot to cold, freeze thaw cycles. This is when the concrete expands and contracts the most.

When my walk around the neighborhood was over, it was clear that the storm created a huge mess. We’ve already heard from many of you, but not all. Give us a call and let’s get your chimney back into great condition. While we’re at your home, let us complete an inspection on your fireplace too. This way, you’ll be good to go for the next year. Call us at 877-244-6349.

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

Many people have questions on chimney caps. You may be wondering “Do I need a chimney cap?” or “How tall should a chimney cap be?” We will walk you through the most important facts you should know about chimney caps by answering commonly asked chimney cap questions.

At Boston’s Best Chimney, we are a full service chimney company specializing in every aspect of chimney maintenance and repair. If you would like a chimney cap installed or repaired, click here or call (781) 893-6611 to schedule a free estimate.

Here are our answers to some popular chimney cap inquiries: 

What is a Chimney Cap?

A chimney cap sits on top of the chimney and protects your flues from debris, rain, and snow. It covers the chimney like a hat and usually has mesh around it to keep animals out of your chimney.
Chimney caps sit on the uppermost part of the chimney, the crown, and is the first line of defense against the elements. The chimney crown also works to keep water out of the chimney, but the cap has the mesh sides to allow for venting

Do I Need a Chimney Cap?

We highly recommend having a chimney cap installed. Not only does it significantly reduce the amount of water that enters your home, but it also works as a spark arrestor, preventing sparks from existing the chimney onto your roof or nearby trees. Having a chimney cap can also prevent animals from entering and potentially dying inside of your chimney, which can cause health issues. Read more about why we think chimney caps are essential. 

How Tall Should A Chimney Cap Be?

Your chimney cap should be at least eight inches above the top of the flue tiles that it’s covering, though it is ideal for it to be more than eight inches above. This will ensure that the chimney cap doesn’t interfere with your chimney’s draft, which controls how well smoke is pulled up and out of your chimney. 

What is a Chimney Cap Made Of?

Chimney caps are most often made of stainless steel or copper and come with a lifetime warranties against defects and corrosion. Caps made or lesser quality steel often rust and can stain the chimney and surrounding roof.  

Can I Install My Chimney Cap Myself?

We recommend hiring a professional to install your chimney cap. Installation of a chimney cap will require you to climb onto your roof, which is a job best left to professionals. Also, installing a chimney cap can be complicated, especially if your chimney is old. Experienced professionals will know the size and type of chimney cap that is right for you. 

A well-made and properly fitting chimney cap will make your chimney look finished and beautify your home. If you have a chimney without a chimney cap, or if your chimney cap is old or damaged, we are here to assist you. Click here or call (781) 893-6611 to schedule an estimate. 

The post The Ultimate Chimney Cap Guide appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

A safe chimney means a safe home. When issues arise with your chimney, it’s best to have them addressed and fixed right away, rather than waiting. Here are three chimney problems that should never be ignored.

Leaky chimney

A chimney system that’s in perfect shape will not leak. If yours is leaking, it means there’s a compromise somewhere.

It’s not always easy to know exactly what’s causing a leaky chimney. Brick damage is a common reason for water getting into the chimney; another reason is damage to components such as the

Chimney leaks don’t resolve themselves. They keep getting worse until more and more of the structure is damaged and at risk of collapsing.

Signs of a chimney leak and problems that could lead to one include:

Crumbling mortar/loose or cracked bricks

Water in the firebox

Efflorescence (white staining) on the exterior chimney masonry

Dislodged flashing that seals the gap between the roof and the chimney

Damp patches on interior walls or ceiling near the fireplace/chimney

Strong odors coming from the fireplace

Masonry damage

Damage to a chimney’s masonry can lead to a chimney leak, and it also can lead to serious structural issues and a chimney fire.

Only a professional inspection by a CSIA-certified technician can tell you exactly why your chimney is damaged and the extent of the problem. If internal bricks and mortar are compromised, vulnerable areas of the home can be at risk of fire. Cracks and decomposition throughout the structure can lead to a leaning chimney or a total collapse.

Aside from infiltrating water, chimney masonry can be damaged by:

Lightning strikes

Earthquakes

Gale-force winds

Powerful hail storms

Intense heat and cold year after year

Shifting of the home or the chimney footing

These and other causes, if poor-quality materials were used to build the chimney

Flue obstructions and creosote

When operated without a chimney cap or with a cap that is damaged, various debris can get into the flue and cause a drafting obstruction.

The nests of small animals and the animals themselves who have died inside the flue along with tree debris such as leaves, twigs, and fruit all can block the smoke passage and send deadly carbon

Creosote, created through smoke licensed chimney sweep with certification through the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA).

The value of annual chimney inspections

The best way to keep your chimney safe and avoid problems is to schedule annual professional chimney inspections. By doing so, you’ll keep abreast of the condition of your chimney and its components and be able to get issues fixed before they turn into serious and expensive chimney repair projects.

Fluesbrothers Chimney & Fireplace of Kansas City, KS, is on call year-round to help with all your chimney needs. We provide certified chimney sweep services, chimney repairs, and rebuilding and complete chimney inspections. Keep your chimney in great condition by calling the experts at (913) 236-7141.

The post 3 Common Chimney Problems You Don’t Want to Ignore appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.

When buying a home, many buyers will get a home inspection before they seal the deal. It’s a smart move. Buyers want to know if the house has any defects or needs repairs that may affect its purchase price. However, many homebuyers don’t realize they need a qualified chimney inspector before they close on a home with a chimney and fireplace for the same reason.

Home Inspector Vs. Chimney Inspector

Typically, a general home inspection is not sufficient when you have a fireplace or heating stove. While a home inspector is familiar with the home’s major systems, they often lack the specialized training, knowledge, and certification necessary to fully understand the design and function of the chimney system and attached heating appliances. For instance, a home inspector will look at the fireplace and climb on the roof to see if they spot any visible damage. However, they usually don’t do a deep dive into the chimney to examine the flue liner’s condition and other internal components of the chimney. A damaged flue liner, excessive creosote, rusting damper, and other hidden defects can result in unexpected chimney repairs if not discovered before closing. It can also increase the risk of fire and exposure to harmful contaminants.

Real Estate Chimney Inspection

Before closing on a new home, it is vital to have a qualified chimney inspector conduct a real estate chimney inspection. A real estate chimney inspection is considered a level II inspection and is performed by qualified chimney professionals under the industry guidelines of the National Fireplace Protection Association (NFPA). It is a comprehensive visual examination of the entire chimney system and any attached heating appliances. The inspector will also use video equipment to scan the flue liner, looking for any cracks or flaws that require repair or replacement. Homebuyers are encouraged to be present for the chimney inspection to gain a better understanding of its condition.

Chimney Damage

Here is where the expertise of a chimney inspector is invaluable before closing on the property. Excessive creosote in the chimney is the primary cause of residential fires. Many homeowners are unaware they had a chimney fire until they have a chimney inspection. During the review, the inspector will determine if the fireplace and chimney have been cleaned regularly and if there are indications of a previous fire, flue obstructions, and any moisture or structural damage that needs repair.

Chimney Inspection Report

The chimney inspector will provide the buyer with a detailed inspection report. The report will list the inspection results, including any areas or components that need attention like cleaning, repair, or replacement. If chimney repairs are necessary, buyers can use the inspection report as a negotiating tool to ask the seller to make the recommended repairs or provide a credit at closing.

Protect Your Investment

Homes with a wood-burning or gas fireplace is one of the most sought-after features among buyers. Ordering a level II Real Estate Chimney Inspection before you close the deal will give you peace of mind knowing whether the chimney, fireplace, or heating stove is safe for use or needs expensive repairs.

The post Why Should You Get A Chimney Inspection Before You Close On A New Home appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.

Have you ever wondered when to sweep your chimney? At Boston’s Best Chimney, we recommend getting your chimney inspected and  swept annually. Although you can get your chimney swept during any season, the summer is an especially good time to do so. Here are 5 reasons why:

1. Chimney companies have more availability during the warm weather months than in the fall and winter Most people begin thinking about cleaning their chimney in the early to mid fall, as the weather begins to cool. This makes it difficult to find a highly rated chimney company with availability in the fall and winter. Instead of waiting weeks to schedule an appointment in the fall, begin thinking about getting your chimney cleaned during the warm weather months, when chimney companies have more availability. This will ensure that you can choose a company with great reviews and schedule an appointment at a time that is convenient for you. At Boston’s Best Chimney, we are proud to be a one stop chimney company specializing in every aspect of chimney maintenance and repair. We encourage people to check out our customer testimonials to hear what our past customers have to say about us.

2. Odor issue arise during the summer If your chimney has been leaking because of heavy rain, then the mixture of water and creosote inside of your chimney will begin to smell when the heat hits. Getting your chimney swept each summer will help you reduce any odor issues in your chimney.

3. You can get rid of birds nests in your chimney and other summer pests During the warm weather seasons, it’s more likely that birds and bees will build nests in your chimney. Though having a chimney cap installed will help keep animals out of your chimney, having your chimney swept during the summer will detect any creatures in your chimney and allow them to be quickly removed from your chimney.

4. A professional will identify other chimney problems early on During chimney sweeps, professionals often identify issues that chimney owners were previously unaware of. One common problem that professionals find is debris that is stuck in a chimney and causing blockage, which can ultimately lead to carbon monoxide leaks in the home . Getting your chimney swept early on will give you time to get other potential issues addressed before the winter season begins.

5. Beat the Holiday rush Nowadays, the holiday season begins in mid-fall. October through December is not only the busiest time of the year, but it is also the most expensive time of the year. Avoid worrying about extra costs and to-dos as you prepare for the holidays by having your chimney cleaned while the weather is still warm. 

At Boston’s Best Chimney, we are available to sweep your chimney. Click here or call us at (781) 893-661 to set up a free estimate today. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The post When to Sweep Your Chimney appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

It’s the middle of the New England summer, and you probably have not thought much about your chimney. That is until you went to sit near your fireplace and noticed a musty, smoky odor.

Offensive odors permeating from the chimney can linger through the whole house. It is one of the biggest complaints that we hear from customers during the summer months. Installing air fresheners only masks the problem. And when it gets hot outside, closing the windows and turning on the air conditioning will intensify the smell. To eliminate the problem, it must be done from the source and usually includes a thorough chimney cleaning.

All chimneys produce a small odor. It’s not always noticeable due to a natural updraft which allows air to be pushed out through the chimney. This typically eliminates a foul aroma by moving the air outside. As energy efficient updates happen throughout the home,  draft issues can become a problem.  This will result in trapped or stagnant air within the chimney or even a draw back into the living space.   As heat and humidity rise, smells will intensify, making your living situation quite unbearable.  Here are some simple solutions to eliminate foul odors.

What to Do if your Fireplace Smells in the Summer

The easiest step is to hire a professional chimney technician to perform an annual chimney sweeping and safety inspection. During the sweeping process, creosote and debris will be removed, giving your chimney more draft space to allow the odor to escape. A chimney sweeping, however, is not always 100% effective.

If the foul odor remains, it could be that your home has negative air pressure. Try closing the damper when the fireplace is not in use. Another solution is installing glass fireplace doors that will help control air pressure. Glass fireproof doors will reduce the smell from permeating throughout the house.

Clean the fireplace itself. You don’t have to remove ashes after every fire but do shovel them out at the end of the season and place in a non-flammable container. Wear a disposable breathing mask to avoid inhaling particles.

Deodorize. Vinegar is excellent for removing a smoky smell, whether from cigarettes or fireplace residue. Spray the inside of the fireplace with a 1:1 blend of vinegar and water. For extra protection, set a few open bowls of vinegar around the room to freshen the atmosphere. Alternatively, place a bucket of charcoal or kitty litter in the fireplace to absorb the odor. Commercial fireplace deodorizers are also available.

Close the flue (the damper). This should be done whenever you are not actively using the fireplace to reduce odors and to keep cooled – or heated in winter – air inside your home. Ensure that damper has a tight seal and is top-mounted, with a chain to control its opening and closing.

Put a cap on the chimney to keep out precipitation. A benefit of this move is that it will stop birds and other creatures from turning your chimney into their nesting spot.

Summer is the best time to schedule your annual chimney cleaning and safety inspection. Chimney companies’ busiest seasons are during the fall and spring months, making appointments difficult to schedule on your time. During the off-season, schedules become more flexible with better appointment times that fit your calendar.

Contact Boston Best Chimney today to schedule your annual chimney cleaning and safety inspection!

The post Does Your Fireplace Smell in the Summer? Here is What to Do About It. appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

What’s the NCSG?

The National Chimney Sweep Guild’s mission is to inspire innovation, professionalism, and community among chimney and venting professionals through advocacy, industry-leading conferences and journalism for the success of our members and the growth of the chimney sweep industry.

We are the experts in the chimney industry and your best advocate.  The NCSG knows what it takes to build a successful chimney business, and they help and inspire us every step of the way.

“The National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) is a 501 (c) (6) non-profit trade association existing to promote the success of its members by providing progressive services, encouraging professionalism and ethical accountability, and advancing the chimney and venting industry through public awareness of the trade.

Members in each of NCSG’s six regions elect board members to represent their geographical region. In addition to regional directors, the membership elects two At-Large Directors from among its voting members and one Supplier Representative from among its Supplier members. Additionally, two At-Large Directors are nominated by the Governance Committee and confirmed by the board.

NCSG participates in the Great American Woodstove Changeout and is a member of the European Federation of Chimney Sweeps (ESCHFOE), the Chimney Sweeps Association of Ireland (CSAI) and the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association (HPBA). NCSG also actively participates in NFPA 211, NFPA 54, NFPA 31, and ICC committees.”

—NCSG website, 2020

The post Southern Chimneys is a proud member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild.  first appeared on Southern Chimneys.

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

If your home has a chimney, it is essential to keep up with its maintenance in order to keep it safe and working well. Though there are steps that you can take to keep up with your chimney’s maintenance on your own (check out our Homeowner’s Chimney Care Guide), it is important to involve a chimney professional as well. As a chimney owner, you should get your chimney inspected and swept by a professional each year. At Boston’s Best Chimney, we are a one-stop chimney service company. We not only perform residential and commercial chimney sweeps and inspections, but we also install chimney liners and caps, as well as rebuild chimneys, solve smoke problems and more. If you are in need of a chimney service, don’t hesitate to click here or call (781) 893-6611 to set up a free estimate.

Are you wondering how to find a chimney sweep and service company? It can be challenging to find a company that is trustworthy and qualified to meet your needs, especially if you do not know the ins and outs of chimney care and how a chimney works. That is why we are giving you a list of questions to consider as you research local chimney professionals.

Research The Following:

1. How are the Company’s Reviews? Looking into the reputation that a company has built can be an excellent indicator of their reliability, customer service, and the quality of their past work. Check sites such as Google Reviews, Angie’s List, and Facebook Reviews to learn more about a company.

Ask Chimney Professionals These Questions :

2. Do You Have Business Liability Insurance and Worker’s Compensation? This will protect your home and property in the event of an accident. You should ask the chimney company that you are speaking with to have their insurance company directly send you a Certificate of Insurance to ensure that the chimney company’s insurance is valid and up-to-date

3. Will the Person Working at My Home Be a Certified Technician? The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) works to prevent chimney-related fires and gives education and training to industry professionals. It is an industry standard for all chimney professionals to be CSIA or CCP certified. You should request that professionals working at your home provide their certification numberfore they begin work on your chimney.

4. What Types of Inspections Do You Offer? As we mentioned, you should have your chimney inspected and swept by a professional annually to keep your home safe. Chimney inspections are also important when you are selling or transferring property, if you are replacing your heating equipment, or if there was an operating malfunction. There are several types of chimney inspections and a legitimate and experienced professional should walk you through the different types of inspections and explain which type of inspection is right for you.

5. How Long Has Your Company Been in Business? The more experience a company has, the better. Experts with years of knowledge will have the ability to accurately assess your chimney and handle any complications or unexpected situations that may come up.

At Boston’s Best Chimney, we have been in business since 1989. With years of experience and satisfied customers, we are ready to use our knowledge to help you. Click here or call us at (781) 893-6611 to schedule a free estimate or an inspection.

 

The post How to Find a Chimney Sweep and Service Company: 5 Questions to Ask appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.