Winter weather in New England is cold and wet, which can take a toll on your home. Thankfully, there are winter maintenance checklist items that can help ensure that your house stays in great shape throughout these harsh months. Today, we’ll share our top winter home maintenance tips with you, including some winter chimney care tips. 

Here are some ways that you can better maintain your home and chimney this winter.

Get Your Chimney Inspected and Swept

When was your last chimney inspection? Your chimney needs to be inspected annually to make sure that it is not threatening your family with carbon monoxide poisoning or as a fire hazard. Chimney inspections will also help ensure that your fireplace is working efficiently and not causing energy loss in your home.

Similarly, your chimney should be inspected once a year and swept as needed to remove soot and creosote build up, which becomes unsafe if unaddressed. We recommend hiring a CSIA certified chimney sweep for the job to ensure that your technician has undergone extensive training and is fit for the job.

If you are looking to have your Boston, MA area chimney swept or inspected this winter, click here or call (781) 893-6611 to contact our team!

Check for Gaps Around Your Doors and Windows

Spaces around the windows and doors of your home can let cold air in and make your house drafty and uncomfortable. That is not to mention the energy loss that will occur as your heating system tries to keep your chilly house warm. Stand near your doors and windows this winter to see if you feel drafts coming from them and if you do, check for small gaps. You can add caulking to your doors and windows or weatherstrip your windows to close these gaps if needed.

Replace Your Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Detector Batteries

We recommend changing your smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector batteries twice a year. Winter is a good time to either check or replace the batteries, since it is when you will be using your fireplace and keeping your windows closed. Check out our fire safety checklist for more tips on keeping your fireplace secure.

Clean Out Your Dryer Vent

Clean out the lint filter and the lint vent of your dryer regularly year round, but especially during the winter when your dryer is likely being used more. Failing to do so can cause a fire in your home. The National Fire Protection Association reported the following:“In 2010-2014, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 15,970 home structure fires involving clothes dryers or washing machines each year. These fires caused annual averages of 13 civilian deaths, 444 civilian injuries, and $238 million in direct property damage. The vast majority of fires (92%) involved clothes dryers.” Cleaning out your dryer vent is a quick and simple step that you can take to prevent major issues.

Get a Chimney Cap

Do you have a chimney without a cap? We highly recommend having a chimney cap installed this winter if you do not already have one. During the winter, having a chimney cap will keep animals from hibernating in your chimney and prevent snow from entering into your chimney. If you’d like to learn more, take a look at our chimney cap guide for more information.

Take Care of Your Home This Winter

Make sure that your house is taken care of during the long winter months by following some of our winter home maintenance tips! If your home has a chimney and you are located in the Greater Boston, MA area, don’t hesitate to contact our team for your chimney needs. We look forward to using our more than thirty years of experience to serve you!

The post Our Winter Home Maintenance Checklist appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

The fireplace is a central relaxing ambience of the home, and nothing can beat reading a book with a hot chocolate mug in front of a blazing fire during a cold night. But sometimes, it feels gloomy, especially in front of the gas fireplace, as the fireplace glass becomes foggy with moisture. However, they are convenient and easy-to-use. 

The gas fireplace is less appealing, and you need propane to light it up, which is an expensive heating fuel. That’s why some people still prefer traditional wood-burning fireplaces in their homes.

And , if you’re one of those homeowners who want to experience the warm and cozy feeling of a real wood-burning fireplace, follow these tips and convert the fireplace from gas to wood burning one. 

6 Steps to Convert the Gas Fireplace to a Wood-Burning Stove

If you have recently moved into a new-build home, your gas fireplace may not convert to a wood-burning stove. Because many new-built homes today do not have functioning chimneys, which are required for wood-burning fireplaces.

A few steps allow homeowners of new-build homes to convert their gas fireplaces to wood-burning stoves. Make sure to follow them properly! 

1. Know your situation
2. Get approval
3. Have your chimney inspected
4. Change your flue
5. The conversion process
6. Ensure you have proper ventilation

• Know Your Situation

Before getting started with the conversion process, ensure to reconsider your situation. Do you really need to convert a gas fireplace into a wood burning one? 

Suppose you live in a newly-built home with an originally built gas fireplace, that doesn’t  have  an actual flue and chimney installed—then the process of conversion  will take extra time. 

To proceed with the conversion, you’ll need to replace the entire fireplace as well as install a flue and chimney. 

However, if your home originally has a wood-burning fireplace, but it operates with gas, then it is easy to convert such a  fireplace back into a traditional wood-burning fireplace.

• Get Approval

Before beginning a gas-to-wood fireplace conversion, ensure that your fireplace is suitable for the change. 

Additionally, it’s recommended that you first verify with the local authorities for any building codes and permit requirements to avoid any potential legal issues. 

Secondly, do thorough research before investing in a major home renovation project like gas fireplace conversion into wood one.

• Have Your Chimney Inspected

If you already have a chimney associated with your gas fireplace, it is essential to get it inspected before converting it into a wood-burning fireplace. The chimney is crucially connected to the functioning of a wood-burning fireplace, and a fireplace may not be able to work without the addition of a chimney. 

Ensure that the brick and mortar, chimney liner, damper, crown, and cap are in good condition before using the fireplace.  If you want chimney repair & cleaning, then reach out to us at High’s Chimney by calling 301-519-3500. 

Note: This step is not necessary for homeowners installing a new chimney.

• Change Your Flue

Gas flues can’t handle high temperatures from wood stoves and single-skin flues can’t effectively channel fumes. They don’t release fumes directly into the chimney, as hot air may not rise and could cool and descend into living space.

A 316-grade flue liner is a recommended solution, as it can effectively channel the combustibles and handle the burning seasoned wood.

• The Conversion Process

After verifying that your chimney is all prepared for wood burning through necessary inspections and cleanings, you can finalize the process of converting your fireplace from gas to wood.

The final step in the conversion process is to remove the gas logs and either turn off the gas supply or have a gas lighter installed for your wood fireplace. Here a  gas lighter simplifies the task of starting fires compared to manual methods.

Keep in mind that converting a gas fireplace to a wood-burning one requires attention to detail and technical expertise. For a safe and proper conversion, it’s best to leave the process to the gas fireplace servicing professionals. 

• Ensure You Have Proper Ventilation

When it comes to your fireplace, proper ventilation is important. Whether you are using a wood-burning fireplace or a gas fireplace, you need to ensure that you have adequate ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide and other harmful fumes from building up inside your home. 

In order to keep a  wood-burning stove in proper working condition, you  need two components;  wood and oxygen. Without adequate oxygen, the fire will not be able to sustain itself. The wood burning stove takes in the necessary oxygen from the surrounding room, making proper ventilation crucial to its operation.

Also, it’s essential to read out the new regulations and ensure that you have a proper ventilation system in your home to keep your family safe and healthy while also enjoying the comfort and warmth of your wood-burning fireplace.

4 Benefits of Having a Wood-Burning Stove

Wood-burning stoves have been a center of attraction in homes for centuries, and for a good reason. Not only do they provide a cozy and warm atmosphere, but they also offer a number of practical benefits that make them an excellent choice for homeowners and still highly preferable.  

• Efficiency

One of the biggest advantages of a wood-burning stove is its efficiency, as  they retain heat much more effectively. 

However, this not only means that you’ll enjoy a warm and comfortable home, but it also means that you’ll be able to save money on your energy bills, as the wood burning fireplace is cost effective. 

• Environmental Benefits

Another great benefit of having a wood-burning stove is that it’s an environmentally friendly option. Wood is a renewable resource, and it releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere when it’s burned. 

These wood-burning stoves have a much smaller carbon footprint.

• Aesthetics

In addition to its practical benefits, a wood-burning stove also adds a touch of charm and character to any room. It comes in a variety of styles and designs, from sleek and modern to rustic and traditional, so be sure to find one that fits your personal style and aesthetic. And, of course, there’s nothing quite like the warmth and glow of a wood-burning fire to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

• Cost-Effective

Another great advantage of a wood-burning stove is that it can be a cost-effective way to heat your home. Wood is often readily available and can be obtained for a relatively low cost, especially if you have access to your own supply of firewood.

How Much Does a Fireplace Conversion Usually Cost?

The cost estimate for a gas-to-wood fireplace conversion project in Maryland is based on several factors, such as the ventilation system and chimney work. The age and condition of the home and chimney, as well as any previous damage caused by fire or water, may impact the cost. Generally, these conversions can cost a few hundred dollars or less if you are able to handle some of the work yourself.

If you are looking for the exact amount for the fireplace conversion, then schedule an appointment today by filling out a query form.  

Where Can I Get a Fireplace Expert?  

Finding gas fireplace experts near you, especially in Maryland can be easily done by searching online or getting recommendations from friends and family. However, it’s advisable to contact the certified experts at High’s Chimney. Our team will provide you with comprehensive information on the six steps involved in converting a gas fireplace to wood, including:

• Improving efficiency and heat output
• Selecting the right fuel type
• Choosing the appropriate insert
• Installing a chimney liner/ grate/blower

Get the Gas Fireplace Services in Maryland!

If you are still trying to decide about converting your gas fireplace to a wood-burning stove, drop us a query by calling our gas fireplace expert at 301-519-3500; they will help you make a final decision.  

The post How To Convert a Gas Fireplace to a Wood-Burning Stove? appeared first on Highs Chimney.

Regular duct cleaning is necessary to remove  debris, mold, germs, and pests from your ducts, in order to improve indoor air quality. However, the question that comes to mind after looking in the cleaning process, does the air duct cleaning process create a mess?

Yes, it does create a mess while cleaning the air duct. This is because, during the cleaning process, a high-powered suction machine is used, which can cause the dispersal of debris and dust within your home, as ducts are located throughout the house.

Though, there are some ways that can help you prevent the mess! 

Ways to Prevent The Air Duct Cleaning Mess 

Air duct cleaning is a task that requires specialized tools and training and can result in some degree of mess. 

However, certain precautions can be taken to ensure that the dust and debris are contained within the ducts and properly vacuum with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA)-rated equipment. If the air ducts are thoroughly sealed and inspected by a professional technician, the escape of dust and other contaminants into the rest of your home during the cleaning process will be kept to a minimum.

Below, we have listed down the ways that can help you prevent or at least minimize the mess of air duct cleaning for a better indoor breathing environment.  

• Cover Your Furniture & Flooring: Before starting the air duct cleaning, it’s essential to ensure that you cover all the furniture and flooring with protective covering sheets to prevent any dust from settling in there. 
• Seal Off the Ducts: If possible, seal off the ducts to prevent dust and debris from spreading throughout your home.
• Vacuum Thoroughly Before & After Cleaning: Vacuum your home thoroughly before and after the cleaning air duct to minimize the amount of dust that escapes back into your home.
• Open Windows & Doors: Also, open windows and doors to allow for ventilation and reduce the buildup of dust and debris inside your home.
• Hire a Reputable Duct Cleaning Expert: A professional and experienced duct cleaning expert at High’s Chimney will use the right equipment and techniques to minimize the mess caused while cleaning the air ducts. Our experts use state-of-the-art vacuum systems with HEPA filtration to trap dust, debris, and other particles, so they don’t escape into your home.

The Importance of Air Ducts Cleaning 

Regular duct cleaning is important to keep your home’s ventilation clean from dust particles and other contaminants. It is essential for quality indoor air, energy efficiency, and longevity of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.  

• Maintain Good Air Quality 

The air that flows through your ducts is the same air your family inhales on a daily basis. If you leave ducts unchecked, then there’s a chance that they may collect allergens such as pollen and pet dander, which can then be released back into your living space through the air vents. 

Although these dust particles may not pose a significant health risk, they can cause problems for individuals who suffer from asthma, allergies, or other respiratory problems. But having your air ducts cleaned can improve air quality and ensure that your air remains free of airborne particles.

• Boost Energy Efficiency 

If air ducts are not cleaned, the buildup of debris can hinder the flow of air to and from the HVAC system components. When ducts are clogged, your furnace or air conditioner must use more energy to perform effectively. Maintaining clean ducts will ensure optimal efficiency for your HVAC units.

• Protect Heating & Cooling Equipment 

A poorly maintained ventilation system can result in clogged air conditioner coils, dirty air vents, contaminated blower wheels, and other problems that can lead to expensive repairs. Incorporating duct cleaning into your regular maintenance routine can prolong the lifespan of your HVAC system.

Did you know? On average, a single duct cleaning process results in the removal of approximately six pounds of dust and other debris from the home.

How Often Should Air Ducts Require Cleaning?

The frequency of air duct cleaning depends on several factors, such as the size of your home, the number of pets you have, and the level of indoor air pollution. As a general guideline, it is recommended to have air ducts cleaned every three to five years. 

However, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional HVAC technician who can inspect your ducts and provide a recommendation based on your specific situation and guide you on how often you should take a dryer vent repair service.

Get Air Duct Repairing & Sweeping Service From High’s Chimney

Air duct cleaning is not a simple task that can be easily carried out by anyone. It requires specialized equipment and the expertise of skilled technicians to be done properly. Here at High’s Chimney, we have the right tools and experienced technicians to provide you with a thorough and effective cleaning of your home’s ductwork. 

Let us help you improve the air quality in your home; all you have to do is call us at 301-519-3500.

The post Does Air Duct Cleaning Make a Mess? appeared first on Highs Chimney.

Air duct cleaning and sweeping after home renovation should never be taken lightly, because you never know when there could be a giant dust bomb waiting to go into your air duct system. 

Fortunately, you can take multiple steps to minimize the impact of air duct cleaning, such as sealing vents and tapping the registers (vent cover and grills) with the help of protective coverings. 

However, if you have failed to cover your vents before renovations, and dust/debris has already settled in your air ducts, then take swift action to clean up the mess. 

Air duct cleaning is important to ensure that your indoor air quality is healthy and safe.

If you are still unclear about the needfulness of duct cleaning, then this blog is for you. It will clear all your doubts and help you make informed decisions about air duct cleaning.  

Is Cleaning Air Ducts Worth it Right After a Home Renovation?

Yes! Due to the massive amounts of dust raised during such projects, you must clean your ducts immediately after finishing a home renovation. The dust particles are very likely to become trapped in your duct, and as  a result, duct cleaning is required.

So, knowing that you need duct cleaning services after renovation, here is why it’s beneficial for your home’s indoor environment.  

Why Do You Need Air Duct Cleaning? 

Air duct cleaning is essential for several reasons, which are mentioned below; 

1. Clean debris from the duct
2. Prevent allergic reactions
3. Increased energy efficiency
4. Extended HVAC system lifespan
5. Improves air quality
6. Eliminates unpleasant smells 

Let’s explore these reasons one-by-one in detail. 

1. Clean Debris In the Duct

During renovations, a lot of debris and dust particles can become airborne and settle onto your air ducts’ surfaces. Also, these particles can release back into the home from the air duct’s supply registers.

That’s why it’s essential to make sure that your home is free of these potentially harmful substances, and you should clean your air ducts once the renovation work is completed.

2. Prevent Allergic Reactions

Dust and other allergens can accumulate in your air ducts, causing respiratory issues for some people. Cleaning the ducts can help reduce allergens and improve the overall indoor environment.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reported that there is a possibility that some of these contaminants/clogged ducts can cause allergic reactions or other symptoms in human beings if they are exposed to it. 

To avoid severe health issues in this regard, you must get air duct cleaning services to prevent allergies! 

3. Increased Energy Efficiency

Significant mold growth can be seen on the hard surfaces, such as sheet metal, of your air ducts or on other components of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The buildup of dust and debris in the ducts makes it harder for the system to circulate air, leading to increased energy costs.

Cleaning the ducts can help improve the efficiency of your HVAC system and lower your energy bills, as per EPA reports.

4. Extended HVAC System Lifespan 

Dust and dirt buildup in your air ducts can damage your HVAC system over time because they can stick to your duct surface and clog up your air filter. 

Therefore, if you take air duct cleaning or HVAC repair services, you can extend your system’s life and prevent costly repairs.

5. Improves Air Quality

Over time, dust, dirt, and other contaminants can all collect in your air ducts and affect the indoor air quality. Cleaning the ducts can remove these pollutants and improve the air you breathe.

6. Eliminates Unpleasant Smells 

By getting your air ducts cleaned, you can resolve several problems and improve indoor air quality. Duct cleaning can eliminate unpleasant odors from sources such as animal and insect droppings, cigarette smoke, accumulated dust, and mold.

How Air Duct Cleaning Works?

The air duct cleaning process involves these seven steps that can help get rid of contaminants like dust, dirt, and other particles.

1. Inspection: The first step in air duct cleaning is to inspect the ducts to determine the extent of the contamination, and decide the appropriate cleaning method according to the needs.
2. Disconnection of ducts: To clean the air ducts, the HVAC system must be turned off, and the ducts must be disconnected from the main unit.
3. Clearing debris: Once the ducts are disconnected, a powerful vacuum is used to remove any debris or dust that has accumulated inside the ducts. It may include things like cobwebs, dirt, and pet hair.
4. Cleaning the ducts: Next, the inside of the ducts is thoroughly cleaned using specialized tools, such as brushes and compressed air, to remove any remaining debris and contaminants.
5. Reassembling the ducts: After cleaning, the ducts are reassembled, reconnected to the HVAC system, and tested! 
6. Final cleaning: The entire HVAC system is cleaned and vacuumed to ensure no dust or debris remains to avoid future issues! 
7. Sanitizing: If necessary, the ducts may be sanitized to kill mold and bacteria and deodorized to remove any unpleasant odors.

However, some specific tools are required to clean your ducts, and you should be aware of them or else it is best to hire air duct cleaners.    

What Equipment Is Needed For Duct Cleaning?

Cleaning air ducts require specialized tools and equipment, which include:

• Heavy-duty gloves, mask, and goggles. 
• New air filter.
• Stiff bristle brush or vent brush. 
• Drill-powered duct brush.
• Powerful vacuum with a long hose.
• Power drill or a screwdriver
• Clean clothes/ paper towels or rags
• Leaf blower (optional)

Reasons Why to Avoid a DIY Air Duct Cleaning On Your Own

DIY air duct cleaning may sound like an appealing way to save money, but it is not recommended to do it on your own for several reasons. 

1. Lack of proper equipment to initiate the air duct cleaning, and there might be a chance you are unable to clean it properly.
2. It can be dangerous, as it involves crawling into tight spaces and handling heavy equipment. If you don’t have the proper training or experience, you can put yourself at risk of injury.
3. Identifying and cleaning all the areas that need special attention can be difficult. 
4. You may accidentally damage your ductwork while cleaning it, which can lead to leaks, lower air quality, and higher energy bills.

 

What to Expect from Dryer Vent Repair & Cleaning Service?

When you get the dryer vent repair from High’s Chimney, you can expect a thorough cleaning of your ducts to remove dust, debris, and other contaminants. This service will ensure that your dryer vent is functioning optimally and safely. 

The process typically starts with an inspection of your ducts to assess the level of contamination and identify the areas that require special attention. 

Our air duct cleaning team will use specialized tools, such as high-powered vacuum cleaners, brushes, and air compressors, to remove dust and debris from the ducts. And in some cases, sanitizer or disinfectant may be used to eliminate bacteria, mold, and other harmful contaminants. 

After finalizing the cleaning, our specialists will reassemble the duct system to conduct the final inspection to ensure that the ducts are clean and free of debris. 

We ensure that you are completely satisfied with the cleaning process. 

Below, we are giving you a post-air duct cleaning consumer checklist, which will help you rate our services.  

Checklist	Questions	YES	NO
General	Did the team clean the entire HVAC system, incl. ducts, components, pans, humidifiers, coils, and fans?  Has the team adequately demonstrated duct work and plenums are clean?
Heating	Is the surface of the heat exchanger visibly clean?
Cooling	Is the cooling exchanger visibly clean?  Is the flashlight into the cooling coil? Are coil fins straight/even, is the drain pan clean/draining properly?
Blower	Is the blower clean, the blades free of oil/debris, and the compartment free of visible dust/debris?
Metal Ducts	Are interior duct surfaces free of visible debris (randomly selected return/supply side)?
Air Vent	Are the diffusers, grilles, and registers cleaned and securely reattached?
System Operations	Does the system work properly in heating and cooling modes after cleaning the air duct?

Get Your Air Ducts Cleaned With High’s Chimney Professional Sweeping Services!

In conclusion, it is imperative to have your air ducts cleaned right after home renovation to maintain a healthy and comfortable living or working environment. Cleaning air ducts helps remove dust, debris, and other contaminants, thereby improving indoor air quality and increasing the longevity of your heating and cooling system.

So if you have recently renovated your home and haven’t got the air ducts cleaned then why wait? Get professional air duct cleaning service from High’s Chimney by calling 301-519-3500 and breathe easier knowing that your home or office is healthy and comfortable.  

The post Air Duct Cleaning After Renovation – Essential or Overrated? appeared first on Highs Chimney.

Drafts are a driving force that is pulling the smoke up your chimney which allows the fire to burn effectively in your fireplace or wood stove. A fireplace or wood stove with a poor draft is going to make it hard to get a fire going and causes smoke to roll out in front of your wood stove or fireplace. Smoke that rolls out of your fireplace or wood stove is unpleasant and it causes soot stains on the ceiling and walls. This is also going to cause the smell of your home like soot and smoke. When you improve the draft of your wood stove or fireplace, it will ensure that all smoke will vent out of your home properly. You should not have to call chimney repair often if you follow these tips:

Start with a Fast and Hot Fire

When you start a fire with pieces of fast-burning wood types, and lighter blocks, a warm air that flows through the chimney will develop quickly. The warmth creates the fireplace draft and keeps the fire going. You should use the reverse or Swiss lighting method. There is better firewood combustion when it is lit from the top to bottom.

Burn Very Low Moisture Wood

The key to having a hot, fast fire is to burn the wood with 20% or lower moisture. Wood has a high moisture content that is going to burn slowly and lose the majority of wood efficiency. Basically, the fire is boiling excess moisture off before the wood can reach full combustion. Moist wood makes the top-down fire-stating method very hard. A good draft is going to start a well-lit fire.

Only Burn Wood Which Dried for Two Years

If you burn wet wood, it is harder to get a good fire going and keep it burning. After you light the fire with wood types and fast-burning materials, you should feed the fire with slow-burning wood like beech, oak, birch, and fruit tree wood. These kinds of wood should be dried for at least two years so it can burn well-drawing fire. You should not use fast-burning wood types (willow, pine, alder) in this firing phase because it leads to an output of dangerous sparks. Heating with wet wood is not eco-friendly because there are high amounts of emissions.

 Warm the Flue

Among the best ways to power up the draft in a cold chimney is to heat and prime up the flue. In cold climates, you might have to establish a draft. A cold chimney is able to create a cold bubble that blocks the flue and draft. If you are trying to start a fire with a cold chimney, you might fill your home with smoke since the chimney is very cold. The fire heat cannot overtake the cold flue that causes a smoky fireplace or wood stove.

Open the Window and Shut off the Kitchen Exhaust Hood

Open fireplace consumes about 250-250m of air an hour for combustion gas exhaust and burns off the wood. In homes that are well-insulated, the movement of a lot of air presents a problem quickly. This is going to create reverse pressure, and the smoke will soon enter your house. The reverse pressure can also be made by a kitchen exhaust hood in a home with proper insulation. You can naturally open the window, but it is an unattractive solution during winter. The oven extraction from your oven can influence the draft of your fireplace as well when you do this.

You can contact chimney relining Ellicott City anytime if you need to have your chimney inspected.

 

The post How to Increase Chimney Draft first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

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

As a fireplace owner, you’ve no doubt heard about creosote. Unfortunately, many people think it means their chimney is dirty and little else. However, we’ll show you why creosote is dangerous and how you can protect your home and family.

What is Creosote?

The goal when burning wood or other fossil fuels is to burn them as completely as possible; however, that rarely happens. Whether it’s unseasoned firewood or poor airflow, incomplete combustion produces volatiles that travels with the smoke up the chimney.
As the smoke cools in the chimney, it condenses with water and other chemicals and sticks to the walls. This residue is called creosote.

Creosote comes in three stages.

Stage One: The first coating of creosote is typically a dust-like substance called soot. Soot isn’t flammable, and it’s easy to clean at this stage.

Stage Two: As the soot thickens, it becomes sticky and tougher to remove. Stage two becomes a fire hazard because the sticky form is partially combustible under the right conditions.

Stage Three: Finally, as the tar-like creosote layer gets thicker like a glaze, it restricts airflow and is highly likely to catch fire. Stage three buildup is difficult to remove and requires a certified chimney sweep.

Why Is Creosote Dangerous?

As mentioned, in its later stages, creosote becomes flammable, but how much creosote buildup does it take, and at what temperatures are you at risk? According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), most chimney fires occur because of dirty chimneys. The problem with creosote buildup is that it doesn’t take much to become a concern. The CSIA says, Even just a 1/8” buildup of creosote is enough to cause a chimney fire.

Okay, but chimney fires are rare, right?

Well, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), in 2011, they estimated that 53,600 U.S. home fires were caused by home heating equipment. The leading factor that contributed to those fires was the failure to clean equipment, such as chimneys. Moreover, a 2022 report released by the NFPA said, Heating equipment fires resulted in an estimated 480 civilian deaths, 1,370 civilian injuries, and one billion dollars in direct property damage each year from 2016 to 2020.

How to Protect Yourself From Creosote & Chimney Fires

In light of this unsettling news, it’s not all gloom and doom because preventing a chimney fire from obstructions and creosote buildup is easy.

Schedule Annual Inspections & Cleaning

The most important thing you can do — and the easiest — is schedule annual cleaning and inspection by a certified professional chimney sweep. Certified chimney sweeps have the necessary training and follow industry standards to ensure your safety.

Use Seasoned Firewood

The first thing you can do is burn properly seasoned firewood. Green or unseasoned wood produces more smoke and volatiles, which means more creosote.

Avoid Over-Firing

Over-firing means burning more fuel than your fireplace can handle. Many people think adding more wood to get a hotter fire means a warmer home, but it’s dangerous, especially if you have creosote in your chimney because the high temperatures can ignite it.

Install a Chimney Cap

Chimney caps prevent debris and animals from getting into the chimney, causing a blockage, which could lead to increased temperatures and fire.

Call the Fluesbrothers

When residents in Kansas City need a chimney service company they can trust, they call The Fluesbrothers.

Why? Because we have over a decade of experience, our technicians are licensed, insured, and certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. We’re also a full-service chimney company that handles everything. Whether it’s chimney sweeping, inspection, repair, maintenance, or dryer vent cleaning, there’s no job too big or small for our team.

Get your chimney winter-ready and ensure you’re protected by scheduling an appointment today at 913-236-7141 or fill out our online form, and we’ll get right back!

The post What is Creosote and Why It’s Dangerous appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.

Chimney flashing will provide a skirt on a chimney when it can meet the roof so that debris and water will not go into the roof space and cause property damage. When the chimney is installed through your roof from an internal fireplace, it will pass through the roof cavity and into your property’s external environment. The chimney flashing is placed through the chimney edge against the roofline in order to create a permanent and resilient conjunction seal.

You would have to call chimney cleaning services before installing chimney flashing. Most of the time, people take note of how important chimney sweeping and tuckpointing are, but chimney flashing can be overlooked.

Here are the reasons why chimney flashing is important:

How Chimney Flashing Works

The chimney will allow smoke from your fireplace so it can rise and escape into the air above the home, but there are important parts that allow this. There is a damper that seals the fireplace, from outdoor elements, but it should be opened when you use the fireplace so the smoke will not fill your home. The smoke chamber will guide smoke from the hearth to the flue and guides it upward and outside so it can go through your roof. Meanwhile, the flashing plays an important part in the process. The flashing is a seal that is placed where the chimney and roof meet, which creates a transition between the roofing and chimney materials. Why is it important? If there is no flashing, chimney cleaning will become a constant task. There will not be a glaring gap between the roof and chimney through which the moisture and unwanted matter seep into your house.

Moisture Barrier

The roof of your house will act as a shield from the external environment. If there is no chimney flashing, debris, water, dust, and other external particles are going to pass through the roof cavity. It can cause internal damage including electrical faults. When there is a moisture barrier because of a good chimney flashing that was installed correctly, you will feel more comfortable. This is going to let water and debris flow down your roof line and into the gutters and then it is linked to the stormwater network.

Automatic Pest Control

Chimney flashing provides a barrier that will not allow pests to go into your roof cavity. Regardless if your property has possums in the vicinity, nasty pests, or rats, you should make sure that the seal is sealed so they will not find a home inside your roof. Chimney flashing has to be completely installed around the chimney masonry’s parameter where it can meet the roof line so that there are no gaps or parts that can be forced open.

Hire a Professional to Repair it

When you experience warning signs of chimney flashing problems, you should not do a DIY. A professional can confidently diagnose what the issue is. Even if moisture issues are normally caused by flashing problems, there are a suite of chimney problems that can lead to water issues. In addition, if it is a flashing issue, a team of professionals can evaluate how much the damage is to determine if it should be repaired or replaced.

You Should Watch out for Leaky Flashing

If you moved into a new home, or you have not done any work to the current chimney for a long time, you should watch out for any faulty chimney flashing signs.

Chimney flashing is a common contributor to chimney leaks which can cause major problems.

You can contact chimney sweep Upper Marlboro if you need to have the flashing inspected.

 

The post The Importance of Chimney Flashing first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

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

Sometimes, chimney repair goes beyond tuckpointing or repointing damaged mortar. If your chimney is old or damaged beyond these minor repairs, it may be time to look into a total teardown and rebuild of your chimney structure.

Spring is the ideal time for a chimney rebuild. By that time, you’re most likely done using your fireplace and chimney. The system will remain idle until the following fall and temperatures outdoors are warm enough for everything to set up properly. So with that in mind, let’s go over the details of rebuilding a chimney.

First, is it time to rebuild?

How do you know if you are past the point of repair and need to start fresh? For starters, you may notice the chimney leaning, water damage in and around the mortar, large cracks in the brick, or excessive amounts of damaged mortar. If you spot any of these, you should contact us right away and stop using your chimney until we can assess the situation.

Also, your Northeastern Chimney tech may discover these issues during your yearly inspection. If any of these signs are observed, it’s likely time for a rebuild.

Different ways of rebuilding a chimney

That being said, there are three options when it comes to repairing a chimney at this point. If only a section needs to be removed and replaced, this is known as a partial rebuild. The technician will remove the damaged section and replace it with new materials. This could also include replacing all the metal materials in the chimney that have been compromised by rust. Another type of partial rebuild is tuckpointing, which simply means you’re filling in the cracks or gaps in your masonry. Finally, repointing is a type of partial chimney rebuild where you replace all of the mortar joints.

A roofline-up rebuild occurs when the entire structure from the roof flashing up to the crown needs to be replaced. This leaves the interior structure intact while repairing problems with the exterior visible structure starting with your flashing and working its way upward toward your cap and crown.

And finally, a complete rebuild happens when the entire structure is compromised. New brick and mortar are used to construct an entirely new chimney face; this can also include replacing interior components that are in poor shape.

Can a rebuild be prevented?

As any structure ages, it is going to require care and upkeep. However, with proper care and regular inspections, damage can be caught in the early stages and typically fixed before turning into a more serious and labor-intensive issue. As water damage is a leading contributor to deterioration and damage, utilizing a waterproofing sealant on the chimney’s surface will help to protect your chimney for the long haul.

We’re here to help, whether you need a rebuild or a repair

We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across Connecticut with all of their chimney-based repair needs. From annual sweeps and inspections to complete rebuilds, there is no job we can’t handle for you.

Do you need to get in touch with our team to schedule an appointment? Then contact Northeastern Chimney, LLC at 860-233-5770 or by sending us a message through our website.

The post All About Rebuilding A Chimney appeared first on .

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

Special Gas Insert Rebate Plus Financing

Are you ready to give your home a warm and cozy makeover? Installing or upgrading a fireplace is just the thing for you. Whether your old wood-burning fireplace needs some sprucing up or you’d like to add a brand new one with all the modern features, making this change can have impressive results.

Not only will it aesthetically improve your space, but having an efficient fire system in place can also help reduce energy bills while warming up chilly winter evenings. Before starting this project, there are some important things to consider that can ensure success.

You can read on to learn why it might be time to upgrade or install a new fireplace to bring comfort and style into your living space:

Why A Gas Insert?

Efficiency

First and foremost, a gas fireplace has a huge advantage over a wood burning one because of their energy-efficient nature. Wood fires generally convert about 10 to 30 percent of the fuel’s energy into heat whereas a gas fireplace converts 75 to 99 percent of a fuel’s energy into heat for your home.

Ease of Use

A gas fireplace is far easier than a wood burning one to start, maintain, and use. There are no logs to split, carry, take up space, and season. Fires in a gas fireplace do not need to be tended to and fed with more logs and won’t die out if you leave it alone like a wood fire.

Unlike with a wood fire, there is no cleaning ashes or smells of smoke wafting into your home.

Gas fireplaces can be lit with the push of a button on your thermostat or with a remote control. You can also adjust them and put them out with the use of your thermostat.

Heat Output

Because your thermostat can control the gas fire, you can also adjust the heat output. If it’s too hot, you can easily adjust the flame to your liking. The same goes if it’s too cold. The thermostat will even maintain the temperature setting for you and adjust the fire accordingly.

Additionally, if you choose a gas fireplace with fixed glass panels and a direct-vent, you can ensure heat doesn’t escape up the flue as it does with a wood fire. This translates to even more heat output when you need it and a greater degree of fuel efficiency.

Style

This comes down to personal choice. You make like the classic look of a traditional fireplace with wood logs. But if you are after a sleek, modern look then a glass-enclosed gas fireplace may be exactly what you are looking for.

Fireplace Options

If you’ve settled on installing a gas fireplace, there’s still another step to consider: what kind do you want? There are many different types and styles, each of which has something to offer your home.

Vented (or Direct Vent)

Gas fireplaces don’t produce any smoke or odors, but – as with any fire – they still produce dangerous and toxic byproducts. A vented, also known as a direct vent, fireplace is the safest method of getting pollutants such as carbon monoxide out of your home.

Direct vent fireplaces pull in air from outside your house and into a sealed firebox. Then the fumes from the flame are vented outside of your home through a different exhaust pipe which is installed at the same time as the fireplace.

While cold air is being drawn into the fire box and fumes are vented outside your home, cool air from inside your house is drawn into a separate chamber with a built-in fan, warmed by the heat of the fire, and then the heated air is blown back into the room along with the radiant heat direct in front of the fire.

Log Sets

Gas log sets are the least expensive and least efficient type of gas fireplace. Providing your traditional fireplace is in good working order, all that is required to install one of these is to drill access for gas pipes in an existing fireplace and then the ceramic logs and burner are hooked up and ready to go.

Most of the heat created by one of these units is lost because your chimney damper must be open the whole time the fire is active so that the fumes can escape your home. Because of this, log sets should really be treated as decorative home design choices and not as an option for serious wintertime heating.

Prefabricated Fireplaces

For homes without an existing fireplace, a prefabricated gas fireplace is the best choice. For vented models, an exhaust stack is installed venting and a mantelpiece and surround can be built for aesthetics. The firebox is connected to gas lines and the fireplace is essentially ready to go.

If you’re considering making this change, be sure to schedule a consultation with our team so we can help you choose the right model, installation and pricing package for your needs.

The post Ready to Upgrade Your Fireplace? appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

The only thing worse than thinking you can clean your chimney yourself is hiring a non-certified
person to do it for you on a budget. We completely understand wanting to cut costs but if there
is one thing you don’t want to skimp on, it’s cleaning your chimney. The safety of you and your
family is not something to bargain with, so we suggest doing your research, and finding certified
professionals you can trust. Let us share some red flags (and green flags) to look for when
hiring chimney professionals and also prove why you can trust us!

Red Flag: Bargain Pricing
If there is a company advertising a $99 cleaning, then it is a complete scam. You get what you
pay for and chimney cleaning services are no exception. There is not a company (that we know
of) that is willing to send a minimum of two certified professionals to a site for $99! Instead, they
will send one unqualified professional with little to no expertise. There is no such thing as one
size fits all pricing.

Green Flag: Realistic Quote for Services
A credible chimney or fireplace company will quote you upfront at least $200-$300 for services.
They will provide a comprehensive quote for the first visit and they will not add on a bunch of
additional charges. Services will be outlined and quoted up front and you should never be
charged later on for “additional services performed”.

Red Flag: Solo Inspector On Site
Never, and we repeat, “never” accept only one person on site for chimney cleaning or roof
inspection. You should be quoted, scheduled, and charged for at least two certified
professionals on-site to perform services. This checks and balances structure is extremely
important.

Green Flag: Two or More Professionals
A reputable company that you can trust, will send out at least two certified professionals who will
perform a full analysis of the chimney and roof, top to bottom. They will have a system and
process for the inspection and be able to give you a full report with details of their analysis.

Red Flag: Don’t Even Go On Your Roof
We hear way too many times… a company arrives on site and does not go on your roof.
Sometimes, they do not even look at your chimney. We cannot stress enough how much of a
red flag this is for the company! Going up on your roof to assess the roof itself and the chimney
is the least they should do as part of their inspection. You should not have to ask them to
personally inspect your chimney or go on your roof.

Green Flag: Look at Your Chimney & Roo
A certified professional that you can trust will, of course, go on your roof during the inspection.
That might seem like common sense but so many of the non-certified and non-professional
people won’t because they cannot assume that liability. It’s a green flag when they discuss in
your consultation actually going up on the roof and needing access to your roof and chimney.
We hope that you now have a better idea of the red flags to watch out for and the green flags to
look for when hiring a company to take care of your chimney and roof. We work extremely hard
to be trustworthy and fly those green flags high! Trust us with your chimney and roof inspections
and give us a call today to schedule a visit from one of our professionals.

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