Why Regular Chimney Cleaning is Essential for Home Safety

The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) states that there are more than 22,000 known chimney fires annually in the United States. We want to educate homeowners about the importance of annual chimney sweeps to prevent chimney fires. 

Reasons to Have Annual Chimney Sweeping:

• Reduce chimney fires. Cleaning out the creosote from your chimney will significantly reduce the risk of chimney fires. Creosote is a thick, black, tar-like substance that is produced when wood is burned. This accumulation may easily catch fire. 
• Carbon Monoxide Exposure is prevented. Obstructions can occur during the year. While you aren’t using your fireplace, small animals, their debris, and leaves may accumulate, causing a blockage. 
• Better efficiency in venting and performance. Identifying defects in the chimney and liner will help with efficiency. Cracks, faulty flue liners, damage, or improper chimney size can cause heat to leave the home. As well as protect the home from toxic fumes entering the home from any cracks.
• Detect structural issues. The chimney’s masonry crumbles and deteriorates over time,  tuckpointing or repointing may be necessary. This is a process of removing and replacing the deteriorated mortar joints. Other repairs may include replacing bricks. Repairing these issues early can cost you much less than waiting. 
• Prevent damage from water leaks. Mold and mildew will grow if water is not addressed. A chimney sweep will be able to identify any presence of water. Other damage from water can be rusty components. 
• Insurance coverage. Many insurance companies require documented chimney sweeps and inspections to be covered under their policy. Check with your insurance company. To comply with fireplace safety standards, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests that annual sweeps, inspections, and maintenance can prevent insurance claim denials due to negligence.

You, as the homeowner, can also perform some general maintenance tasks to help with safety in your home.

Regular Maintenance:

• Always use seasoned wood when burning in your fireplace. The cleanest wood to burn is the hardest. Choose hickory, oak, maple, or similar.
• Clean out the firebox after the fire has gone out and is completely cold.
• Do not burn wood that has been pressure-treated or painted. Both can cause toxic fumes to come into the home.
• The damper should be completely open before starting a fire. 
• Set up your fire to burn hot. Start with large wood on the bottom, followed by smaller wood. Finish the setup with kindling and firestarter. This will create a hotter fire, preventing excessive smoke as well as helping with buildup in the chimney. 

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

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

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

In most new builds and newer homes, you may find that you have a stainless-steel flue chimney liner. However, many homes are constructed with clay liners. A clay liner needs to be inspected regularly to ensure that it is up to a safe standard. If a clay liner becomes damaged or fails, you may run into serious problems. 

At Northeastern Chimney, we offer HeatShield liner repair and relining services. We follow standards put forth by the National Chimney Sweep Guild Certified Chimney Reliner.  Continue reading to find out if you need to contact us for services. 

When To Call Us?

• If you see pieces of your clay liner in thefirebox. 
• You find that the chimney is not working as you expect. It is not drafting effectively.
• Smoke backs up into the house when you light a fire.

On inspection, we will use a camera to look inside the chimney to determine where the issue is. 

Not all issues with the chimney liner are related to damage to the liner. That is why an inspection is important, to determine what the problem might be. There can be an obstruction caused by debris, small animals in the chimney, or creosote. A chimney sweep can clear out the obstruction easily and get you back on track with a safe burning season.

If, on inspection, our technicians find that the liner is the issue, we will discuss the benefits of HeatShield. 

How Does HeatShield Work?

HeatShield works as a protective barrier. It reduces the heat that is transferred from the hot flue to combustible materials nearby. Using HeatShield is a safety feature that helps to prevent fires. It also prolongs the life of your chimney.

Mortar Joint Repair.

HeatShield is pushed into the affected mortar joints with a foam brush. When done correctly, it will fill in and smooth any gaps within the joints.

Complete Relining.

Relining with HeatShield is specifically designed to restore, seal, and insulate masonry flues without replacing the entire lining. 

Application.

Our technicians will use a plug that is inserted in the bottom of the flue. It is attached to a special rod that will be pulled upward through the flue during this process. A thin layer of HeatShield product is applied over the entire interior of the flue surface. Then the plug is pulled up slowly, so the product is evenly applied along the walls. This will seal any cracks or gaps as the plug is pulled up through the liner. 

If the flue is badly damaged, a sleeve may be inserted to protect the structure of the chimney.

Contact Northeastern Chimney for more information about HeatShield.

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

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

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

As the days grow shorter and the nights turn crisp, there’s something undeniably magical about gathering around a fireplace. But here’s the truth: you can only fully enjoy those cozy nights if your fireplace is working efficiently and safely.

What We’re Seeing in the Market

At Best Chimney, we’ve noticed a significant shift in the industry. Gas log sales are down—way down. And we believe we know why: traditional gas logs are simply inefficient compared to what’s available today.

Here’s what’s changed: fireplace inserts—both wood-burning and gas—have become the standard, and for good reason. Modern inserts are engineered to capture and direct heat far more effectively than older gas log systems. Homeowners are waking up to the fact that they can get substantially more warmth, better efficiency, and superior performance with an upgrade.

Why Inserts Are Becoming the Standard

If your gas logs have been around for a while, they’re simply outdated compared to today’s technology. Modern fireplace inserts—whether wood-burning or gas—are engineered to maximize heat output and distribution in ways older systems just can’t match.

This shift isn’t just a trend. It’s about creating those perfect cozy evenings without the nagging feeling that you’re throwing money away on inefficient heating.

Why Your Chimney System Matters More Than You Think

Before you can enjoy a cozy night by the fire, your entire chimney system needs to be inspected. Here’s why it matters:

Safety First: A poorly maintained chimney can develop creosote buildup, cracks, or blockages that create fire hazards or allow dangerous carbon monoxide to seep into your home. A professional inspection catches these issues before they become emergencies—and before they disrupt your family time.

Peak Performance: Even the best fireplace insert won’t work efficiently if your chimney isn’t properly maintained. Drafting issues, leaks, or damaged flue liners waste heat and reduce effectiveness.

Peace of Mind: There’s nothing cozy about worrying whether your fireplace is safe. Professional maintenance gives you the confidence to light that fire, settle in with loved ones, and simply enjoy the moment.

Maximizing Your Fireplace Efficiency

If you’re thinking about upgrading to a modern insert or simply want to get more out of your current system, here are some practical tips:

Get a Professional Inspection: Have Best Chimney assess your entire system. We’ll identify any inefficiencies, safety concerns, or opportunities to upgrade. Many customers are surprised at how much improvement is possible.

Keep It Clean: Annual chimney sweeps aren’t just recommended—they’re essential. Creosote buildup reduces efficiency and increases fire risk. Cleaner chimneys work better, period.

Consider an Insert Upgrade: If your gas logs are 10+ years old, upgrading to a modern insert could significantly improve heating efficiency and your overall comfort. The return on investment often comes faster than you’d expect.

Utilize Ceiling Fans: Run your ceiling fan on low clockwise to circulate warm air down.

Preventing heat loss: Make sure the damper is closed when not in use or invest in glass doors.  Be sure to use your fireplace strategically to supplement your main heating system. Every bit helps!

The Best Chimney Difference

We’re not just in the business of sweeping chimneys—we’re helping families reclaim those warm, connected moments that matter most. When you call Best Chimney for an inspection or maintenance, you’re investing in safety, efficiency, and peace of mind.

This fall and winter, don’t settle for a fireplace that’s just going through the motions. Make sure it’s ready to deliver the warmth, comfort, and ambiance you deserve.

Ready for cozy nights ahead? Give Best Chimney a call today for a professional inspection and chimney sweeping. Let’s make sure your fireplace is as efficient and ready for use—so you can focus on what really matters: time with the people you love, gathered around the warmth of a well-maintained fireplace.

Best Chimney: Your trusted partner for chimney safety, efficiency, and peace of mind.

The post Cozy Nights Ahead: Making Sure Your Fireplace is Ready for Fall appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Fireplaces and wood stoves provide both affordable heat and the beauty of a real fire all winter long. However, they rely on clear and clean chimneys to send smoke and gases out of the home so your air stays clean and clear.

Learning when to clean your chimney helps you stay compliant with local codes and reduces any risks related to creosote buildup. If you’re a newcomer to fireplace ownership or chimney maintenance, watch out for these eight signs you’re overdue for cleaning.

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1. Shiny Black Residues

A powerful flashlight and a small handheld mirror can help you inspect the inside of the fireplace, wood stove, or chimney itself. Look for dark oily marks on interior walls, black residues on the damper, and crystalline or “fuzzy” looking build-up anywhere in the smoke path.

Visible creosote build-up in the visible parts of the fireplace and chimney indicates far more extensive accumulation further in the chimney. Stop using the fixture until you have it professionally inspected and cleaned.

2. Ongoing Burnt Odors

If you’ve swept your fireplace and removed any remaining charred wood bits and ashes, you shouldn’t smell a distinct smoky odor from it. Lingering smoky or burnt odors often indicate creosote buildup in the chimney that could pose a fire hazard. 

Timely cleaning not only reduces potential hazards but also helps you get a fresher smell in your den or living room. Creosote can produce an off-putting greasy smell that is sometimes confused for kitchen odors, but only a chimney cleaning will put an end to it.

3. Smoke Fills the Room

Extensive creosote buildup can block the chimney or reduce its flow so much that smoke flows back into the room during a fire. Check first that the damper is open and hasn’t fallen shut. 

If the damper is open and yet smoke continues to redirect into the room, you need to put out the fire and have the chimney inspected. In addition to creosote, smoke issues indicate other chimney issues like:

• Bird nests or other animals living in the chimney
• Cracked or collapsed chimney liners
• Crushed or dirty chimney caps and spark arrestors.

Fireplaces shouldn’t set off fire alarms in other rooms when they’re operating normally. If you have to keep disabling alarms more than 10 feet away every time you have a fire, you may have smoke infiltration you haven’t noticed yet.

4. Damper Sticks Open or Shut

The damper should open and shut smoothly and without hesitation. If it sticks or slides shut on its own, it could block airflow and send smoke back into the home.

A sticky damper is a sign of creosote buildup. The material drips back down when the fire cools down, coating this essential part in a glue-like material.

It’s not always easy to see dampers in today’s tightly fitted fireplace designs, but you can feel how it responds when you open and shut it. Invest in a fireplace inspection and chimney cleaning when you experience any problems with the damper since it’s essential for keeping warm air in your home when you’re not burning a fire.

5. Fireplace Doesn’t Want to Draft

Your fireplace should draft evenly and quickly, pulling smoke and other gases away so they don’t mix with your indoor air. If your fire seems sluggish, doesn’t burn as well as it used to, or sputters in odd ways, you should test the draft. 

With no fire in the fireplace and at least a day after the last fire, twist up a piece of newspaper and light it near the open damper. The warm air should quickly rise up the chimney, taking any smoke along with it.

If there’s no noticeable draft to pull warmth and smoke up the chimney, it’s likely blocked. A professional inspection and cleaning visit will determine if it’s clogged with creosote, animal nests, or other issues.

6. Debris Falls Down

It’s normal for small amounts of ash and creosote to fall back down a chimney during an active fire. This natural process keeps your chimney from immediately clogging up with burn by-products.

However, you shouldn’t see debris falling when there’s no fire to heat up the chimney. If you experience a shower of black bits every time you walk near the fireplace or tap on the chimney’s exterior, you are definitely overdue for a cleaning.

Don’t start a fire until you have the chimney inspected if you keep finding piles of black material in the fireplace when it’s not in use. By the time creosote is falling out of the chimney at this rate, it’s likely clogged to the point of no longer drafting properly.

What Happens When You Don’t Clean the Chimney?

Creosote is a naturally produced byproduct of burning wood. No matter how well you stick to burning dry wood and stick to hot roaring fires, you’ll end up with residues that slowly reduce the chimney’s ability to draft smoke away.

Cleaning your chimney or stove pipe is the best way to stay code compliant while avoiding issues with smoky fires or unpleasant odors between fires.

FAQs About Chimney Cleaning

• Can You Clean Your Own Chimney? There are tools and kits available for this purpose, but consider that it’s a physically challenging process that can create quite a mess. It’s easier to leave it to the pros.
• How Often Does a Chimney Need Cleaning? It all depends on the types of fires you burn, how often you use the chimney, and its age and condition. You should get your chimney cleaned at least once a year, even if it’s rarely used, and possibly more often.
• Can an Uncleaned Chimney Make You Sick? Yes, if a chimney is not properly cleaned it can lead to a build up of soot and creosote, resulting in potential asthma flare-ups and irritating the eyes and skin. Additionally, an uncleaned chimney can also cause carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, which can be deadly. 

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Chimney Cleanings with Southern Chimneys 

Learning when to clean your chimney can take a little trial and error. Schedule an inspection with our team at Southern Chimneys to determine the current condition of your fireplace and chimney rather than wondering when to care for it. We’ll recommend a cleaning schedule based on its age, condition, and your fire-burning habits that will give you peace of mind every time you strike up a match. Don’t wait any longer, call us today for your inspection, and get winter ready with a cleaned chimney!

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

If you’ve ever noticed stains or pieces of brick or stone around your chimney after the changing seasons? You’re not alone. Furthermore, did you know that water damage is one of the most common and costly chimney problems reported by homeowners? There is a way to safeguard the chimney from water damage.

Safeguard the Chimney from Water Damage

Water has a sneaky way of finding its path inside the home by seeping through mortar cracks, flashing that has come away from the chimney or roof, or even the chimney cap, especially if it’s loose.

Rain or Melting Snow: When it rains or snows, it hardly ever goes straight down. It usually has wind to accompany its travels. This means rain can look like it’s going sidewise and chances are, it’s beating on all four sides of the chimney searching out the smallest cracks or weak spot to make its way in. As a homeowner, get the chimney inspected once per year to ensure any cracks in the mortar or even the chimney crown are found and repaired.

Once repaired, the best next step is to get the chimney bricks, mortar and chimney crown waterproofed with Chimney Saver. This seals the porous materials and keeps it from deteriorating prematurely. The waterproofing solution lasts for as long as 10 years.

Chimney Cap: The chimney cap has multiple uses for the chimney. The chimney cap keeps the water, snow and any debris from entering the chimney. And in the Fall season, little critters are searching for a warm place to stay to weather the snowy and cold winter. It’s best to keep them out of the chimney and harm’s way.

As a homeowner, this needs to be checked annually as well. It will not be a good thing if the chimney cap is loose. Getting it checked to ensure it can stand up to animals, wind and other factors in order to keep your chimney protected.

Snow and Ice: Snow and ice can wreak havoc on your chimney. The chimney will be under more stress if the buildup of snow and ice persists in the winter. It will push the chimney and flashing to the brink as it will constantly be testing the chimney’s endurance.

What are the Signs of Water Damage?

Water Stains: Look for water stains inside of the home. Water can travel a good distance, so be sure to check all of your rooms, both the ceiling and walls.

Mold and Mildew: If you find mold or mildew around the exterior chimney, then you know you have had moisture build up for a long time. This problem has been long neglected.

Large and Small Cracks: Small and large cracks in the mortar or even in the chimney flue can mean bigger problems. Homeowners can’t always get to the flue and know what to look for. This is where a certified chimney technician can be of help. Be sure to contact us for the expertise needed to identify any issues.

Prevent Water Damage

Most of what we discussed with a yearly inspection will prevent water damage and other potential issues as well. We’ll go through our 14-point inspection and share our findings with you via photos taken on your roof. Remember, it’s not so easy getting up on a roof to the chimney. That’s why we’re here to help, and show you what exactly is going on.

Getting an annual inspection will keep your home safe from damages. Contact us today 877-244-6349 to schedule your sweep, check and inspection to ensure a safe winter season.

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

Numerous homes are made from a combination of brick and mortar. If it wasn’t good, or wouldn’t last, construction companies wouldn’t use it, right? In perfect conditions, brick and mortar will last anywhere from 25 to 30 years. Therefore, it makes sense that they chimney, which is attached to the top of the house would have the same type of lifespan. If everything had perfect conditions…sure. But living in the Chicagoland area, there are no perfect conditions. So how long does chimney tuckpointing last?

How Long Does Chimney Tuckpointing Last?

Now that we’re talking chimney tuckpointing, the longevity depends on various factors. Chimneys are under a ton of strain such as weather elements, temperatures that constantly change (remember the freeze thaw cycle) and the heat that comes up from the fires made in your fireplace. Now add on how well you or the previous owner maintained the chimney. Chimney tuckpointing will last 50% LESS than the perfect conditions.

Weather Conditions

Chimneys are exposed to the weather elements of wind, snow, heat, rain. But let’s not forget how they also get hit with hail and branches. Because there are no protections, nothing to shield the chimney from the elements, unlike the sides of a home, the continuous exposure to the weather conditions wears down the mortar in the chimney much faster.

You may recall, we discussed in detail the freeze thaw cycle. When water gets in between the stone or brick and the mortar, it expands and freezes causing cracks to form or if there is one, cracks to grow longer and/or wider. When this process is repeated, and it will here in Chicago, the mortar joints begin to weaken. That’s why you need to have the chimney inspected. Chimney repairs are needed and necessary so large repair bills, like partial chimney rebuilds or full chimney rebuilds are avoided.

Visually Check the Chimney

If you have not had a chimney inspection because you don’t use the fireplace, or have a gas fireplace, it is critical to have the chimney inspected by a certified chimney professional. Just because you don’t use it doesn’t mean it’s not doing its thing outside. You still have appliances that use the chimney to extract the toxins. Whether you like it or not, the weather elements are still going to happen. So here are a few things to visually check.

1. Is there any missing mortar? Are there gaps or spaces in between the bricks or stones?
2. If you can get close to the chimney, can you find any loose mortar? Have any of the bricks shifted from their original placement?
3. Have you found any interior stains on the ceiling or walls? These will indicate there’s a water leak in the home. Or have you heard any dripping sounds coming from the fireplace?
4. This is an easy one. Have you seen any white powder type substance on the bricks or stones outside of the chimney? This is called efflorescence. This means that there is moisture coming into the bricks or stones and when it evaporates, it leaves behind this white substance.

What’s Next?

Now that you know how long chimney tuckpointing lasts, you still have some time left before chimney tuckpointing season comes to a close. With the farmer’s almanac calling for more snow this winter, do you want to take that chance of leaks in the home? Get it checked so you have piece of mind this winter. Call today for a 14-point inspection with a certified chimney technician today at 877-244-6349. 

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

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While most homeowners think about protecting their homes from water damage, the roof, gutters, and foundation are usually at the top of their list. However, one area that is often overlooked is the chimney. It’s assumed that because the chimney is made of bricks or stones, it’s naturally durable and waterproof, but that’s not the case, and it’s one of the most common (and costly) myths in home maintenance.

Here we debunk some of the biggest myths about chimney waterproofing and tell you why it’s one of the smartest and most cost-effective preventive steps you can take to protect your home.

Myth 1: Brick and Mortar Don’t Let Water In

This is the big one, the most common myth about bricks and mortar is that they’re impervious to water. After all, they’re strong and heavy, so how could moisture possibly get in? Simple. Masonry materials are porous by nature.

Brick and mortar absorb water like a sponge, especially when exposed to rain, snow, and the freeze-thaw cycle year after year. Over time, that moisture seeps deeper into the structure, leading to problems like:

• Efflorescence, a white, powdery salt deposit.
• Crumbling mortar joints.
• Spalling bricks.
• Mold and mildew growth inside the chimney.

Even a tiny amount of trapped moisture can wreak havoc in the chimney and lead to costly repairs as it breaks the mortar away from the inside out. Waterproofing the chimney helps seal the pores and prevents water from entering in the first place.

Myth 2: A Chimney Cap is Enough Protection

Chimney caps are essential for keeping rain, debris, and animals from getting in. But they’re not a complete waterproofing solution. Caps do shield the top of the flue, but they don’t protect the exterior masonry or the mortar between the bricks.

Think of the cap as an umbrella. It blocks direct rain from entering but doesn’t stop moisture from soaking into the chimney’s sides during heavy storms and driving winds, or when snow piles up against it. For maximum protection, you need a breathable waterproofing product applied to the structure, not just a metal cover at the top.

Myth 3: Waterproofing Traps Moisture

You’d be surprised by how many homeowners don’t want to waterproof their chimneys because they think water will get trapped inside and make things worse. That can happen if the wrong kind of product is used.

A proper chimney waterproofing treatment uses a vapor-permeable sealant. This means it repels liquid water from the outside while allowing water vapor from inside the chimney to escape. Think of it like a breathable raincoat. It prevents moisture from entering without sealing in condensation.

Using the wrong kind of coating, such as paint or non-breathable sealer, can indeed lock in moisture and accelerate deterioration. That’s why chimney waterproofing should always be done by a trained professional who uses products designed explicitly for masonry chimneys.

Myth 4: Waterproofing is Only for Damaged or Old Chimneys

Another common belief is that only older chimneys need waterproofing. In reality, every chimney, regardless of how old it is, can benefit from water protection.

New chimneys are just as vulnerable to water absorption as older ones, and sometimes even more because modern mortar can be softer and more porous than older mixtures. Waterproofing is a preventive measure that can significantly extend your chimney’s lifespan.

Myth 5: Waterproofing Isn’t Worth the Cost

Many homeowners believe that waterproofing is an unnecessary expense or a marketing ploy by chimney companies to increase profits. But, compared to the cost of major chimney repairs, it’s one of the most affordable things you can do.

Repairing water-damaged brickwork, rebuilding a chimney crown, or addressing leaks that spread to your interior walls can cost thousands of dollars. And if you develop mold as a result? That’s another costly headache. Modern waterproofing is relatively expensive and typically lasts up to 10 years before you need to reapply.

Stop Moisture and Save Your Chimney!

Contact Northeastern Chimney today to ask about our chimney waterproofing or other chimney services. We proudly service customers throughout Central CT, and all of Hartford, Tolland, and Litchfield Counties.

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

Many of us are sorry to see the summer go. Although living in New England, we look forward to the changing seasons; each has its own special details. As you pack away your swim toys and get your garden ready for the winter, don’t forget about your chimney. Professionals suggest that an annual Chimney sweep and inspection be conducted. 

When a problem arises, the best plan is to tackle it as soon as possible. Taking care of any repairs early will cost you much less than waiting until the damage increases. 

What Can I Do To Get My Fireplace Ready For The Upcoming Season?

• Clean out the firebox – Carefully sweep out the accumulated ash. This task should be done after every couple of fires. When cleaning out the firebox, use a metal bucket and shovel.Wait 24 hours before attempting to clean it out to ensure the ash has cooled. Bring the bucket outside, away from any buildings. Use the ash in your garden.
• Go outside, take a look at your chimney from the outside. Note any signs of wear. A professional should address cracks or missing masonry. 
• Clear any overhanging trees or shrubs around your fireplace. Check near the crown as well. Wind can cause damage if trees are left too close to the chimney.
• Check for obstructions. During the summer months, small animals, debris, leaves, and twigs can get caught up in your chimney. This can cause a chimney fire.
• Observe the chimney cap, flashing, and crown. It may be difficult to see completely, but if something looks cracked, missing, or dislodged, note this and bring it to the attention of our technician.
• Check the batteries on carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors. It is advisable to change the batteries when you turn the clocks back in the fall.

Not everyone is handy, and cleaning the fireplace is a messy job. That is why Northeastern Chimney is here for you. We hire qualified technicians, so you don’t have to worry about the yearly maintenance. 

Chimney Inspection and Sweep – What to expect.

• Sweep – You can expect our professionals to clean out the firebox. Any leftover ash or spent wood would be taken away. We will use a vacuum to clean this area. Removing the ash will eliminate any smells that come with any moisture in the air. Our technicians will use a brush to brush away any creosote that has collected along the chimney liner as well. 
• Inspection – When our team arrives, we will inspect the inside and outside of your chimney. We are looking for cracks and missing masonry. We will check for any water damage. Once our inspection is complete, our technician will give you a comprehensive evaluation and any suggestions regarding any repairs if needed.
• Schedule your inspection or cleaning soon by calling Northeastern Chimney. We service all of Hartford, Tolland, and Litchfield Counties. All our chimney technicians are trained and qualified.

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

Welcome to the Chicagoland area, the perfect weather conditions for the Freeze-Thaw cycles on your chimney. The Freeze-Thaw cycles put constant stress on the chimney with the expansion and contraction of the bricks and mortar. But why is Superior Chimney talking about it now? To get you ready for the changing and fluctuating temperatures, the exterior chimney needs to be checked now. Depending on how the weather holds up, you may only have until mid-late November where any repairs can be done before it gets too cold.

Getting Ready for the Cold, Dry and Wet Weather

We live in a wet, humid, cold and hot place. It’s inevitable that we’re going to experience the Freeze-Thaw cycle on your chimney. How does it work? When moisture makes its way into the smallest cracks or hairline cracks in the mortar joints, it can just sit there…and nothing will happen. Until the temperatures begin to drop below freezing or 32 degrees. That trapped water turns to ice.

Water expands when it freezes. This means that when it does, it will push the mortar and brick creating and widening cracks. When the weather begins to warm up, the ice will melt exposing the cracks and loosening of the bricks from the mortar. If repairs are not made at this time, the Freeze-Thaw cycle will repeat again causing the bricks and mortar to continue its separation and additional damage such as flaking or crumbling will begin. This will cause the structural integrity of the exterior of the chimney to weaken.

What Happens if the Chimney Weakens?

If the chimney weakens you can be sure that the mortar joints deteriorate, the bricks or stones will begin to shift, which means they will become loose. Most importantly, it will continue to get worse as water will make its way inside of the chimney and even your home. Tuckpointing not only makes the chimney look nice, it is serving a very important purpose. It is protecting your home from damages. By keeping the mortar sealed and weatherproofed before winter makes its way into Chicagoland, you can prevent costly repairs down the road.

Waterproof the Chimney

Waterproofing the chimney extends the life of the exterior chimney. Once your chimney has been swept and inspected by a Superior Chimney certified masonry expert, get any recommended repairs completed (if any). Next, we will apply a waterproofing agent directly onto the bricks and mortar to help prevent the bricks from flaking and mortar from absorbing water. Once completed, the waterproofing formula will last for 8 to 10 years. Now your chimney will be protected when the Freeze-Thaw cycle on your chimney begins this winter.

Contact Superior Chimney today to get the chimney swept, inspected and waterproofed for a safe and dry winter. Contact us at 877-244-6349.

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