Your home has many different components that are designed to help it repel water. Some of those are obvious, such as your roof. However, there are also less noticeable ones — especially if installed correctly. What are we referring to? Your chimney. So, if you’ve ever wondered what is placed around chimneys to prevent leaks, stick around as we unpack these answers for you.

The effect of water on your home

First, we thought it would be a good idea to recap the importance of keeping water out of your home. While necessary for our survival, water that makes its way into your ceilings, flooring, and chimney can lead to a plethora of problems. Water damage is costly, and often leads to mold, mildew, and extensive repair projects.

What is placed around chimneys to prevent leaks? Flashing

One of those areas where water can be problematic is your chimney. If not sealed properly, water will make its way down your masonry and into the seams between your roof and chimney.  To prevent this, your Northeastern Chimney technician will apply a layer of flashing around the base of your chimney where it meets your roof line. This isn’t the only place in your home where you have flashing. This component is a great way to prevent leaks when installed properly. There are three types of flashing that we’ll use around chimneys to prevent leaks, depending on the situation. Let’s take a closer look at each of these.

The three types of flashing

So, what are the types of flashing placed around chimneys to prevent leaks? The first is called step flashing. We’ll primarily use this in one area: the walls of your chimney. We’ll insert this inside of each shingle that touches your masonry.  The second type of flashing is referred to as apron flashing. The name is a bit of a misnomer, as we often think of an apron as a straight object. Instead, the apron flashing has an L-shaped bend to it. However, like an apron you might wear, it extends to the “floor” — or in this case, the base of where your chimney meets your roof. The final type of flashing is known as counter flashing. We similarly use this as step flashing. However, this style is often inserted into your mortar joints, with the edge of the flashing extending above the associated layer of brick.

One final note: though not technically flashing, another component called a roof cricket works in conjunction with your flashing to seal up your home from the effects of rain and snow. This is a triangle-shaped object that we’ll install behind your chimney to help divert water away from your masonry.

Serving Connecticut since 1984

For almost forty years, we’ve been helping customers across our region with all types of chimney-related services and projects. Each of our team members is highly skilled and knowledgeable, not to mention CSIA-certified.

Would you like to get in touch with us to schedule an appointment? Then contact us today by calling Northeastern Chimney, LLC at 860-233-5770 or send us a message requesting more info.

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

Now that fall is in full effect and you are using your fireplace regularly, it’s prudent to ask, what type of wood are you burning? It may seem like a small thing to you, but the wood that goes into your fireplace can have different results depending on whether the wood is good or bad. Let’s look further into what constitutes good and bad wood.

Good Types of Wood to Burn in Your Fireplace

Burning Oak in Your Fireplace

Oak has long been considered the best type of wood to burn in a fireplace. Why? Because it has an even burn that lasts longer and burns hotter because of its density. Oak is also ubiquitous, growing nearly everywhere in the lower forty-eight states. The only drawbacks to burning oak in your fireplace are that it needs to be cured for a year and is tricky to light.

Burning Birch in Your Fireplace

Birch is another favorite because it burns brightly and gives instant warmth. It also lacks the density of other woods, so it burns faster, but it also leaves less residue in the chimney and less to clean up in the fireplace.

Burning Maple in Your Fireplace

Maple is primarily found in the Northern United States and Canada. Like oak, it burns slowly and hot because of its density. There are several varieties of maple; all can be burned in your fireplace.

Types of Wood You Shouldn’t Burn in Your Fireplace

Don’t Burn Chemically Treated or Painted Wood in Your Fireplace

It is crucial you don’t burn chemically treated or painted wood in your fireplace. Burning chemically treated or painted wood in your fireplace puts your family and pets at risk of exposure to toxic fumes. Not only can it pose an immediate threat, but it can also pose a risk over time. If the smoke from chemically treated or painted wood is ingested over time, it can be a carcinogen. It can also cause a greater buildup of creosote in your chimney, a highly flammable substance responsible for the majority of chimney fires yearly.

Don’t Burn Pine in Your Fireplace

Pine is abundant in most of the country, so you may be asking, why not burn pine? Because pine has a few issues that it can cause. Pine burns fast, requiring large amounts to create a long-lasting fire. Secondly, pine also makes large amounts of creosote. With the amount of floating embers that pine produces, the chances of having a chimney fire are greater.

Don’t Burn Poplar in Your Fireplace

Like pine and painted or chemically treated wood, burning poplar in your fireplace can cause a significant creosote buildup in your chimney because of its ability to hold moisture. Poplar also produces a massive amount of smoke and burns cooler than other types of wood.

In Conclusion

Know the types of wood you use to get the best and safest burn in your fireplace. If you want to keep your fireplace in good working order throughout the fall and winter, it is vital that a qualified chimney sweep service inspect and clean your chimney. By servicing your chimney and using the right kind of wood, you can expect enjoyable times in front of your fire until warm weather arrives.

Northeastern Chimney Knows What Type of Wood is Best for Your Fireplace

We know what types of woods are good for your fireplace and what types aren’t. We also are the unmatched chimney and fireplace experts in the greater West Hartford area and will ensure your fireplace is in good working order. Call us today at 860-233-5770 or fill out our easy contact form. We look forward to hearing from you.

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At Lindemann, we often get asked a lot of questions about chimneys, fireplaces, and HVAC systems since that’s what we do best. A question that pops up often is, “Should I replace my water heater before it stops working?” Let’s look at the answer to this question and learn more about your water heater in the process.

Understanding How Long Water Heaters Last

Water heaters are super important in our homes. They give us hot water whenever we need it, which is awesome especially in cold weather. Usually, a regular water heater can work well for about 10 to 15 years, but some special ones called tankless water heaters can go up to 20 years. However, many things like the type of water you have and how often you check and fix your heater can affect how long it lasts.

Why Changing It Early is a Good Idea

Choosing to replace your water heater before it conks out is like staying one step ahead in a game. It’s about avoiding the inconvenience that comes with sudden cold showers, especially when you least expect it. Plus, this proactive decision can lead to saving money on bills, enjoying better features, and even doing a little good for our planet, making it a win-win situation for everyone.

• No Surprise Cold Showers: If your water heater stops working suddenly, it can be really annoying. Changing it before it breaks down means you won’t have to deal with unexpected cold showers.
• Saving Money: Old water heaters can make your bills go up because they don’t work as well as they used to. Newer models are made to use less energy, which can help save some money on bills.
• Helping the Planet: When you use less energy, you’re also being nice to the environment. It’s a cool way to help reduce pollution.
• Cool New Features: New water heaters have some neat features like being able to set the temperature just the way you like it, which can also help save energy.
• Increasing Your Home’s Value: If you plan on selling your house someday, having a new water heater can be a good selling point. It’s a smart investment.

Checking Your Current Water Heater

Keeping tabs on your current water heater’s performance is a smart way to avoid any unpleasant surprises like an unexpected cold shower. Regular check-ups can help spot signs that it’s time for a replacement before you run into any major issues. Understanding what to look for when inspecting your water heater can save you time and money in the long run, ensuring you make a timely decision on whether or not a new water heater is in order.

• Water Temperature: If you notice that the water temperature is inconsistent, or it takes a long time to get hot, it could be a sign that your water heater is struggling.
• Unusual Noises: Hearing strange noises like rumbling, popping, or banging from your water heater is a sign that there might be a buildup of sediment at the bottom of the tank, which can affect its efficiency.
• Water Color: Rusty or muddy water coming from your faucets when using hot water can indicate corrosion inside the water heater tank.
• Leaks: Water pooling around the base of your water heater is a clear sign of a leak, which can lead to potential failure and damage to your home.
• Age of the Heater: Knowing the age of your water heater is crucial. If it’s approaching or has surpassed the typical lifespan of 10 to 15 years, it’s likely time to consider a replacement.
• Frequency of Repairs: If you find yourself frequently calling in for repairs, it might be more cost-effective to replace the unit rather than continue to fix it.
• Energy Bills: A sudden spike in your energy bills could indicate that your water heater is working overtime to provide the hot water you need, showing its inefficiency.

Getting a New Water Heater

Embarking on the journey of acquiring a new water heater is a progressive step towards enhanced comfort and efficiency. Consulting with seasoned professionals like us at Lindemann can provide invaluable insights into the various types of water heaters available, helping you choose a model that aligns with your household needs and preferences.

Whether it’s a traditional tank water heater or a modern tankless version, each comes with its own set of benefits. Our team can guide you through the features, energy efficiency ratings, and capacity considerations to ensure you make a well-informed choice. Moreover, professional installation is key to ensuring your new water heater operates optimally from the get-go.

Thinking About the Cost

The upfront cost of a new water heater can indeed pose a significant expenditure. However, it’s essential to view it as a long-term investment that can yield numerous benefits. A more efficient water heater can contribute to lowering your monthly utility bills by consuming less energy to heat water.

Additionally, newer models tend to require fewer repairs, further reducing your maintenance expenses over time. To alleviate the immediate financial burden, various financing options and manufacturer rebates may be available, making the investment more manageable.

Conclusion

Taking the proactive step of replacing your water heater before it fails is an embodiment of foresight that guarantees uninterrupted comfort and financial savings in the long run. The transition to a new, efficient water heater is not merely about averting the inconvenience of a sudden breakdown, but about elevating the overall functionality and eco-friendliness of your household utilities.

At Lindemann, we stand ready to assist you in this worthwhile endeavor, ensuring a smooth and beneficial transition to a new water heater that serves you reliably for many years to come.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and not as professional advice. Following the instructions provided herein is at your own risk. Lindemann is not responsible for any damage, injury, or loss incurred as a result of attempting to follow the steps outlined in this article; if unsure or unqualified, we strongly recommend consulting with a certified technician or professional service provider.

The comfort and coziness of a home are often heightened by the warmth trickling from our water heaters, especially during chilly mornings or cold seasons. One question that frequently pops up is, “How do I light my water heater?” In this article, we unravel the process in simple, easy-to-follow steps.

Tools Required

Having the right tools on hand will make the process of lighting your water heater smoother and safer. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Long-Reach Lighter or Matches: A long-reach lighter or long matches are preferable as they provide a safe distance between your hand and the pilot light while igniting.
• Screwdriver: If your water heater model has an access cover, a screwdriver will be necessary to remove it and gain access to the pilot light area.
• Flashlight: A flashlight can be handy to illuminate dark corners, helping you clearly see the components you’re working with.
• Adjustable Wrench: Although not always necessary, having an adjustable wrench on hand can be useful if any fittings need tightening.

Safety Precautions

Lighting a water heater involves interacting with gas and fire, which inherently carries a risk. Therefore, adhering to safety measures is not just advisable but essential. Here are some crucial safety precautions to observe:

• Ventilation: Ensure the area around the water heater is well-ventilated. Adequate ventilation helps dissipate any gas fumes, reducing the risk of inhalation or combustion.
• Flammable Materials: Clear the vicinity of the water heater of any flammable materials such as paper, cloth, or cleaning chemicals. A clean, clutter-free area minimizes the risk of accidental fires.
• Gas Leak Awareness: Be vigilant for the smell of gas. If you detect a gas odor, it’s crucial to immediately evacuate the area and contact your gas provider or a professional technician. Do not attempt to light the water heater if you suspect a gas leak.
• Fire Extinguisher: Have a fire extinguisher within arm’s reach. While the chances of a fire are minimal when the procedure is followed correctly, it’s always prudent to be prepared for emergencies.
• Protective Gear: Wear protective gear such as gloves and eye protection to shield yourself from potential hazards.

Step-by-Step Guide To Light Your Water Heater

Navigating the process of lighting your water heater can initially seem daunting, especially if it’s a task you’ve never tackled before. However, with a bit of guidance and adherence to safety protocols, it’s a chore that can be managed with ease.

Step 1: Locate the Gas Regulator and Control Knob

The first step in lighting your water heater involves identifying the gas regulator and the control knob on your unit. The gas regulator is a crucial component that ensures the safe operation of your water heater by controlling gas flow. The control knob, usually located on the gas line leading to the water heater or on the heater itself, is integral for managing the ignition process. Familiarizing yourself with these components is the cornerstone for the steps that follow.

Step 2: Turn Off the Gas Supply

Safety should always be your priority; hence, turning off the gas supply is a crucial step. Rotate the control knob to the “Off” position to halt the gas supply to your water heater. It’s advisable to wait for about 5-10 minutes to allow any residual gas to dissipate. This waiting period is crucial to prevent any potential hazards associated with accumulated gas.

Step 3: Remove the Access Cover

Some water heater models have an access cover that needs to be removed to reach the pilot light. Use a screwdriver to undo any screws holding the cover in place. Carefully set aside the cover and screws in a safe area to prevent misplacing them, as you will need to replace the cover once you’ve lit the water heater.

Step 4: Turn the Control Knob to Pilot

Now that the area is clear of residual gas, it’s time to prepare for ignition. Turn the control knob to the “Pilot” position. This action readies the water heater, allowing gas to flow to the pilot light area, setting the stage for ignition.

Step 5: Ignite the Pilot Light

With the control knob set to the “Pilot” position, hold down the knob and use a long-reach lighter or match to light the pilot. It’s essential to keep holding down the control knob for about a minute to ensure the thermocouple heats up adequately, which in turn keeps the pilot light lit after ignition. The consistent flame of the pilot light is vital for the subsequent operation of your water heater.

Step 6: Set Your Desired Temperature

Once the pilot light is stable and continuously burning, it’s time to set your desired temperature. Turn the control knob to your desired temperature setting; a moderate and energy-efficient setting is usually between 115 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. The right temperature setting ensures you get the perfect balance of comfort and economy in your water heating costs.

Step 7: Replace the Access Cover

Now that your water heater is functioning with its new settings, it’s time to replace the access cover if you had removed it earlier. Carefully place the cover back onto the unit and use the screws you set aside to secure it in place. Ensuring the access cover is securely fastened helps maintain the safety and functionality of your water heater, ensuring it operates efficiently without any hitches.

Conclusion

Lighting your water heater doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Following these steps will help ensure you do it safely and efficiently. However, if you encounter any challenges or prefer a professional touch, the team at Lindemann is always ready to assist. We service and install chimneys, fireplaces, and HVAC systems to keep your home cozy all year round. Feel free to reach out to us for any heating or cooling solutions.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), thousands of chimney fires a year cause nearly 125 million dollars in home damage, and even result in fatalities. Chimney fires can be caused by something as simple as bird nests or heavy wind, and they can cost you your home if you’re not undergoing chimney maintenance, which can help detect potential issues.

At Best Chimney Services, we provide thorough chimney inspections to ensure your chimney is clean of any debris and damage that could result in a chimney fire. We’ll come to your home once a year to perform an annual sweep, and be available any time for your questions or to provide other chimney services! Give us a call to schedule your first chimney inspection. In the meantime, let’s go over what to do if you have a chimney fire. 

What to Do if You Have a Chimney Fire

1. Get Everyone Out of the House

Before you try to extinguish the fire, get everyone out of the house immediately. Chimney fires are as unsafe as any other type of fire in your home and can therefore harm your family members.  

2. Call 911

A chimney fire may sound as if it’s only contained to your chimney, but it can spread rapidly, causing a great deal of damage to your home and threatening the safety of its inhabitants. Once everyone is safely out of your home, call 911 immediately so that the fire department can address the fire.

Being the victim of a chimney fire is frightening. While you may want to act on it and try to contain the fire, the only action you should take is to get out of your home and let the fire department handle the fire. Remain outside while you wait for the fire department to arrive so that they can take care of the situation.

How to Identify a Chimney Fire

As a chimney owner, it’s important that you know how to identify a chimney fire to be prepared. The most common signs that you have a chimney fire include smoke, flames, or sparks coming from your chimney. If there is a fire, the chimney may emit a strong smell and when you light your fireplace it may sound similar to a jet engine or freight train, indicating that creosote is combusting in your chimney.

Other common signs of a chimney fire include creosote shards in the grate of your fireplace or around the exterior of your home. If your chimney flue tiles are cracked, your damper is warped, or if smoke is coming through your chimney’s masonry then it’s possible you’re susceptible to a chimney fire.

How to Prevent Chimney Fires

What can you do as a homeowner to lower the risk of a chimney fire happening? Our biggest recommendation is to schedule routine chimney inspections. A chimney technician will help keep you up to date on regular sweepings and on any fireplace and chimney issues that need to be resolved. If you’re in the Greater Boston, MA area, contact us to start this process!   

Call Best Chimney Services for Professional Chimney Inspections

At Best Chimney Services, we’ve been repairing chimneys and offering routine chimney inspections to ensure our clients’ homes are safe since 1989. We offer a range of chimney services to deliver exceptional customer service that your family can rely on. If you’re worried about chimney fires, give us a call so we can discuss the most effective safety precautions for your home!

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Any kind of logs from trees will burn in a fireplace. However, not all types of logs perform equally. Some can actually cause serious problems if used regularly.

Fluesbrothers Chimney & Fireplace of Kansas City, KS, would like to share a little about the different types of firewood and how to choose the best type to use in your fireplace.

The two types of wood

Dividing firewood into two groups makes it easier to understand. The two types of wood are:

1. Hardwood
2. Softwood

The reason it’s important to differentiate the type of firewood is because each type has its own unique characteristics.

Hardwood

Wood that’s considered “hard” burns longer and hotter while producing less smoke than softer woods. Hardwood is usually easier to get started than softwood and is ideal when you’ll be using your fireplace for extended periods and don’t want to keep refilling the firebox.

Examples of hardwood include:

• Ash
• Walnut
• Oak
• Maple
• Hickory
• Elm

Softwood

Softwoods tend to burn a lot faster than hardwoods, and they’re known for creating more smoke and producing less heat. This type of wood is a good choice when you want a quick fire that doesn’t burn for hours, although it can take a little longer to ignite than hardwood varieties.

Examples of softwood include:

• Fir
• Juniper
• Redwood
• Spruce
• Yew
• Pine

Smoke issues

One of the biggest concerns with firewood is smoke. Smoke rises in the chimney flue, and some of it condenses before leaving the top of the chimney. Condensed smoke becomes creosote.

Creosote is a highly flammable substance that’s responsible for most chimney fires in the U.S. each year. The more creosote, the greater the chance of a serious fire. For this reason, it’s advisable to use mostly hardwoods in your fireplace.

Another cause of excess smoke – in any type of wood – is high moisture content. Fresh wood that hasn’t had at least six months to dry out, or “season,” contains a lot of moisture and makes a lot of smoke. Seasoned wood burns much more efficiently and won’t add as much smoke (and creosote) to your flue.

Chimney safety

If you use a wood-burning fireplace, you won’t be able to completely prevent the production of creosote. You can, however, reduce its danger and your risk of a devastating chimney fire.

Annual chimney sweeping is the solution. CSIA-certified chimney sweeps have the training and equipment to remove creosote from your flue before it builds to a dangerous level.

Chimney technicians use rods, brushes, chains, whips, solvents, and commercial vacuums to do this job. Chimney sweeping isn’t something a homeowner can do with a long brush, and chimney “cleaning” logs are only good for supplemental maintenance, not for thorough cleaning.

Call your Kansas City chimney experts

Now that you know the difference between hard and soft firewood and how smoke turns into creosote, you can make informed decisions about the wood you burn and how to keep your chimney clean and safe.

Fluesbrothers serves the entire Kansas City region with certified chimney sweeping, licensed chimney inspections, and expert chimney repairs. If it’s been more than a year since your chimney was last swept, give us a call at (913) 236-7141. You can also reach out with our handy contact form.

 

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As a fireplace owner, you’re probably aware of the importance of regular chimney cleaning. But what about chimney inspections? They’re just for new homebuyers, right? The truth is that regular chimney inspections are important for every homeowner with a working fireplace and chimney, and here are the reasons why.

Fire Protection

The number one reason you should get an annual chimney inspection is to guard against a chimney fire. Over time, creosote builds in the chimney and is highly flammable. The problem is that the creosote often ignites and burns slowly, and the homeowner is unaware there’s a problem. These fires cause structural damage that could lead to an explosive fire that puts your entire house at risk down the road.

Regular chimney inspections by a trained professional help identify evidence of these minor fires, so you can fix the damage before it’s too late. 

Ensure Proper Airflow and Ventilation

A bloke or partially blocked chimney can cause smoke and toxic gases, like carbon monoxide, to flow back into the house. Carbon monoxide is known as the silent killer because it’s colorless and odorless, and people frequently don’t know there’s anything wrong until it’s too late. 

Your professional chimney inspector looks for blockages, like animal nests, fallen bricks, and debris that could impede airflow, and removes them to ensure adequate ventilation. 

In addition to venting toxic gases, a blocked chimney can make your fire less efficient. A healthy fire depends on a good draft, drawing in oxygen to burn efficiently, which can’t happen when the chimney is blocked. 

Identifying Structural Issues

Because your chimney is exposed to the elements 24/7/365, it’s more susceptible to wear and tear than other parts of your home. Water, freezing temperatures, seismic activity, and shifting soil can cause cracks, leaning, and erosion that could lead to a chimney collapse. Annual chimney inspections can identify minor issues, allowing you to fix them before they become expensive repairs or rebuilds. 

Protect Your Investment

Your home is likely your most significant investment, so it’s essential to keep it well-maintained by making minor repairs as needed, including your chimney. A well-maintained chimney ensures that your fireplace runs safely and efficiently, contributing to your home’s overall value. If you ever decide to sell, a functional fireplace in good condition is still valuable to many potential homebuyers. 

While it’s easy to take the chimney for granted, as you can see, overlooking or ignoring routine maintenance and inspection can have significant or life-altering consequences. Whether it’s a risk of fire, exposure to toxic gases, structural damage, or reduced efficiency, the problems of a neglected chimney are numerous. 

To ensure your fireplace and chimney are safe and for peace of mind, schedule an annual chimney inspection by a certified professional. 

Call the Best Chimney Service in the Kansas City Metro Area

Fluesbrothers is the most trusted chimney and fireplace contractor in Kansas City, proudly serving homeowners for over a decade. 

You can rely on our certified professionals for chimney inspection, cleaning, maintenance, repairs, rebuilding, and more. 

Call us today to book an appointment at 913–236–7141 or contact us online.

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Have you ever noticed a crack in your chimney? If so, you most likely wondered whether or not it was something to be concerned about. In this blog post, we will break down the causes of a cracked chimney and our professional recommendations on resolving the problem.

At Best Chimney Services, our team of chimney technicians have over thirty years of experience and are prepared to handle all types of chimney-related questions and concerns. Give us a call if you are seeing a crack in your chimney, or read on to learn more about chimney cracks!  

What Causes a Chimney to Crack?

Noticing a crack in your chimney can be quite alarming, but what causes cracks to occur in the first place? There are several causes of chimney cracks. The most common reason for a chimney to crack is a weather event such as severe wind, lightning, sudden changes in the temperature, and earthquakes (though those are fortunately rare in the northeast). Other causes include an old chimney that has not been well maintained, an improperly built chimney foundation, and unaddressed water damage. In these situations, a chimney’s brick and mortar breaks down and then cracks occur. 

What Happens if You Have a Cracked Chimney?

When there are cracks in your chimney, that means there is a gap between your chimney’s brick and mortar. When those gaps form, water can enter the structure with ease allowing moisture to seep into your home. This can also cause internal chimney deterioration that can be very costly. Therefore, if you’re noticing cracks in your chimney, there is definitely a reason to be concerned because it can lead to health concerns for your family and damage to your home. We always advise to have visible cracks taken care of right away to avoid a much bigger issue down the road. 

How to Fix a Chimney Crack

If you are not a chimney professional, then it will be difficult to identify how the crack has affected your chimney. It’s possible your chimney requires a partial rebuild, repointing, or waterproofing to avoid future problems. The best way to take care of those concerns is to hire a professional. Our chimney technicians at Best Chimney Services will be able to evaluate the severity of the cracks and diagnose the solution accordingly. Take a look at our chimney masonry services to learn more about this process. Call us today to book your masonry appointment!

Hire Best Chimney Services to Address Your Cracked Chimney

We understand the stress of handling home repair issues. When you’re facing chimney problems, turn to us so that we can take care of them for you! Our experienced team of chimney technicians is dedicated to providing your home with excellent service and care. If you’ve noticed a crack in your chimney, we encourage you to contact us today so we can take care of the problem and give you peace of mind

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It’s time to consider how to keep your home safe from chimney fires before the winter months arrive. By adhering to these recommended safety procedures will prevent chimney fires and lessen the creosote accumulating in your chimney flue.

Some of the things you need to do to avoid chimney fires in your home include: 

Have your chimney inspected.

You should have your chimney inspected at least once a year. If you haven’t inspected your unit yet, it’s time to do it before the cold season begins. 

Chimney inspection helps you look for damage and possible threats that could develop into larger issues later. 

You can inspect the chimney by yourself, but let an expert help you for the best outcome. 

The contractors you hire search for the following indications of damage:

• Breaks
• Chimney liner damage
• Shattered flue tiles
• Rubbish
• Faulty installation

In most cases, a chimney sweep will inspect your chimney while cleaning it, which saves you money. When you hire a contractor, don’t just assume that the service includes a free inspection. Always confirm this beforehand.  

Of course, to save some money, hire a chimney sweep that offers a free cleaning service. 

Clean the chimney

Routine chimney cleaning is the best way to avoid a chimney fire, although it is easy to forget it. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) advises cleaning your chimney once a year to prevent fires and remove creosote accumulation. 

To avoid fires, the walls of a chimney shouldn’t ever have more than 1/8 inch of creosote accumulation on them. 

Before using your fireplace, make an appointment for professional chimney cleaning when you discover a thick creosote.

Some homeowners try to clean the chimneys by themselves. While nothing is wrong with this, you should note that chimney cleaning can be unpleasant and even dangerous when you do it the wrong way. 

For peace of mind that the task is done effectively and safely, hire a professional chimney sweep to do the work. Chimney sweeps possess the knowledge and tools necessary to complete the job successfully.

Ensure your chimney is ash-free

Charred timber and gray ash are the common remnants of fires. Besides making your chimney look unkempt, your risk of a chimney fire rises if you leave heaps of ash in your fireplace. 

When you light a fire in an ash-filled fireplace, the ashes rise to the top and adhere to your flue liner, generating more creosote, which increases the chances of a chimney fire. 

Furthermore, chimneys covered in ash retain smoke and dangerous gases like carbon monoxide, which puts your family at risk of death. 

To prevent this from happening, sweep the ash from your fireplace once the fire has gone out and it is cool to the touch. 

It’s always recommended that you wait a few days to ensure no hot embers are left before you dispose of the ashes. After that, you can either dispose of the ashes per your local laws or use them as fertilizer in your garden.

Unlike chimney cleaning and inspection, you don’t need to hire a professional to help remove the ash. You can always do it by yourself. You are good to go as long as you have the necessary tools and properly dispose of it properly. 

Burn the right wood.

The kindling you use greatly affects the amount of creosote your chimney produces and the efficiency with which a fire burns.

Due to this, you need to be cautious and ensure that you always burn the best firewood. 

To choose the best firewood, consider the following advice:

• Consistently burn seasoned, dry wood. Seasoned wood produces fewer toxic byproducts and burns more efficiently.
• If the wood in your fire is wet, forgo it. Smoke and creosote are produced when damp wood is burned.
• Avoid burning driftwood. This is because driftwood’s salt content weakens a chimney’s structural integrity. 
• Don’t use evergreen wood. This is because more smoke is produced when evergreen wood is burned.
• Use wood floors. Select hardwoods as opposed to softwoods. Hardwoods stay longer, burn hotter, and release less creosote.

Always strive to build a proper fire regardless of the wood you use. Put the bigger logs in the fireplace at the bottom and the smaller ones on top. To get the fire started, use kindling or fire starters. Keep in mind that packing the fireplace too full with wood will impede airflow, so be cautious with the amount of wood you use. 

Install a chimney cap.

A chimney fire can start from debris in your chimney, which is dangerous. To prevent this from happening, you should install a chimney cap. 

Chimney caps are like little roofs that cover the aperture of your chimney. They deflect debris and let smoke and dangerous gases out, preventing chimney fires and keeping your family safe.

Chimney covers shield your fireplace from animals and garbage and stop sparks from lighting a fire on your land. 

In some cases, they trap animals, which can work against you. If you think there may be birds or other wildlife trapped in your chimney, give a professional animal removal specialist a call so that they can look into the issue. 

Install a flue liner.

Your chimney’s inside walls are insulated by flue liners composed of metal or ceramic. Installing a stainless steel flue liner tolerating extremely high temperatures will yield the best results.

When it comes to curbing chimney fires, flue liners play a major role in trapping and directing heat and combustion byproducts away from the interior walls of the chimney, where creosote buildup might ignite.

To provide adequate combustion and the evacuation of smoke and gases from the chimney, flue liners aid in maintaining a constant and effective draft in the chimney. This lessens the possibility of smoke entering your home and helps minimize backdrafts.

For peace of mind that your flue liner is installed correctly and will work properly, have it installed by experienced chimney contractors Upper Marlboro who know what they are doing. 

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