When you take a look at this picture, you can clearly see that mortar fell out from in between the bricks and additional cracks and loose mortar are next to the empty spot. This is an open invitation for water to continue to break down the mortar and water to make its way into the home. But it is such a small area. Can it really do that much damage? Let’s take a closer look.

Here are the Top 3 Ways Leaks Start in the Chimney

1. Water that flows in from the top of the chimney. Meaning there is no chimney cap or the chimney cap is damaged in some way that allows the water to enter into the chimney.
2. Damaged or Missing seals of the Roof Flashing. Flashing can be very tricky. If there’s one little spot open, water will find its way in. Once it finds the weak spot, it quickly begins to erode away at it until it makes it way into the home.
3. Cracks in the bricks and Mortar. That’s our picture for today. Not only are there cracks but also missing mortar.

Flowing from the Top

You may think it’s unbelievable that a chimney doesn’t have a chimney cap, but you would be surprised how many are out there constantly exposed to the elements of the weather. The chimney cap serves a very important task of keeping water, snow, debris and animals out of the chimney. Some homeowners may think that the hole is too small and the small animals can’t make their way to the top. But they can and do. This is why a chimney cap is an important part of protecting your home.

The chimney cap covers the open hole where gases and smoke from the woodburning fireplace and gas fireplace escapes. It’s protecting it from rain, snow, leaves and animals from coming in. Rain and snow can damage the chimney from top to bottom. The leaves can get set on fire and cause a fire in your home. Animals…well do you want a burning animal in your home? Me neither.

Damage or Missing Seals from the Flashing

This is a tricky one. Flashing is placed where the roof meets the chimney. Because this is a place where water can settle and make its way into the home, flashing acts as a barrier. One of the primary weak spots with flashing is the breakdown of the seals. Once the seals dry up and begin to crack and flake, water can make its way into your home. Inspection each year during your fireplace service is key to keeping the elements where they belong…outside.

Cracks in the Bricks and Mortar

Cracks in the bricks and mortar is a perfect way for leaks to start in the chimney. The small hairline cracks can’t be seen from the ground as they can be small or very thin. This makes it difficult for homeowners to keep on top of repairs, which is why having a certified chimney inspection done can save you from unnecessary repairs on the inside ceiling, walls, wood and more. By ensuring holes or cracks are regularly inspected and repaired, you will have significantly reduced the amount of issues that can plague your home.

Call 877-244-6349 for a chimney inspection along with a fireplace inspection today!

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

As much as the chimney is a highly functional unit that keeps the house warm and increases its value, many homeowners make plenty of cleaning mistakes that put their homes and families at significant risk. What are these mistakes? Here they are:

Using chimney logs to avoid chimney sweeping

Chimney sweeping logs can help lessen creosote buildup but can’t eliminate it. In fact, they may cause large “sheets” of creosote to come loose and land on your smoke shelf, where they may pile up and start a chimney fire.

This means that the notion that you can replace chimney sweeping with chimney logs won’t work.

If you are keen, you should note that creosote-destroying logs or chemical instructions make it clear that they should not be used in place of expert chimney cleaning services. So you should still sweep your chimney.

Additionally, you should never use a chimney sweeping log in a wood-burning stove since this could harm the appliance permanently.

Failing to clean the chimney because you are burning hardwood

Some homeowners have this argument because they assume that seasoned hardwoods don’t release creosote since they burn cleaner than softwoods. This is a myth that is widely held. Its foundation is the observation that seasoned hardwoods emit fewer smoke and creosote particles than softwoods.

Burning seasoned hardwoods will result in less creosote in your chimney than burning unseasoned or softwoods, but you still need to sweep your chimney.

Remember that a lethal chimney fire can be caused by creosote buildup as little as 1/8 of an inch.

Creosote deposits are always left behind by fires, regardless of the type of wood fuel you use. This means you need regular chimney cleaning, irrespective of the wood you burn. In the absence of this, layer upon layer of creosote may potentially clog the chimney flue.

A large amount of creosote buildup increases the risk of chimney fires. In addition, there might be an obstruction, which means harmful gases cannot escape outside the house.

This obstruction in the chimney poses a risk to the people living there. Burning wood releases various chemicals, including deadly carbon monoxide fumes, which can harm your family.

Hiring any cleaning contractor

The industry for chimney sweepers is unregulated. Knowing this, con artists prey on homeowners who want to reduce their maintenance expenses.

While saving costs is wise, doing so at the expense of something as crucial as chimney safety may be risky.

The right way to do it is to hire a chimney sweep only after conducting research. Before you hire a contractor, contact three or more clients that have worked with the contractor. You should ask them about their experience and whether they do well.

You also should ask as many questions as possible from the contactor. During the questioning, you will tell whether the contractor is experienced. As a rule of thumb, you should hire the most experienced. While they might be a little expensive, they will be worth it.

Hiring the right professional will prevent you from wasting money on unneeded repairs and cleaning services for your chimney and services from unqualified personnel.

During your research, look for signs of community longevity, authentic customer testimonials, and certification from the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA).

Cleaning the chimney at the wrong time

It’s possible that you already know how important it is to have a certified chimney sweep clean your chimney, but you may have chosen the wrong time to do it.

The truth is that most homeowners put off hiring chimney sweepers until the onset of cold weather. Because of the popularity of this idea, scheduling for certified chimney sweeps gets extremely tight, and services are more expensive.

The best time to clean your chimney is in spring when you are done using it. Soot possesses corrosive qualities; any corrosive materials will eat away at your chimney. When it gets humid in the summer, the chimney will smell bad, and you might have to put off getting a complete cleaning until you need it. This often leads to problems later down the line.

You won’t have to wait as long for an appointment in the spring because it’s less crowded, and if an issue is found during the inspection, you have plenty of time to address it.

Every year, or ideally in the spring, you should clean the pellet systems because residual pellets might expand and explode due to summer humidity, limiting the appliance’s lifespan. Professional service and repair are necessary for all pellet makers at least once a year.

Cleaning the chimney by yourself

To save money, some homeowners have the impression that all they need is a sweep brush and they will sweep the chimney by themselves. To begin with, climbing onto a roof and working from that height is perilous for anyone who is not experienced enough.

In addition, there are three types of creosote, and an average homeowner using a basic chimney sweep brush may not be able to remove all of the buildup. As you can tell, this puts the chimney at risk of catching fire.

The only layers that a chimney brush can remove are the simple ones. The other two are much harder to remove and call for specialized tools, usually only owned by chimney contractors Columbia MD.

This means that if you don’t want to put your chimney at risk of catching fire or putting yourself at risk of falling and getting hurt or breaking your bones, you should hire a professional to help with the cleaning.

As mentioned above, ensure that the cleaning professional you hire is experienced and knows what they are doing. The last thing you want is to hire a professional who causes more problems than were there.

The post Chimney Cleaning Mistakes That You Don’t Want to Make first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

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

When you hire chimney contractors, you expect them to do a good job. Well, this is not always the case. Sometimes, they do a horrendous job that you have to redo. As you can guess, you have to spend more money on it.

To help you out, here are signs that your contractors didn’t do a good job, and how to hire the right professional for the task:

Signs of poor chimney workmanship

• For water to effectively shed off chimney crowns—the top part made of concrete, stone, or mortar— the part should be properly built to slope. When you hire the wrong contractors, they don’t do this right, and the area does not slope from the center to the edge. This means the water doesn’t drain as well as you would want.
• Inadequate caulking of the chimney’s sides or flashing where it meets the outer wall
• The chimney being rebuilt or replaced with the incorrect kind of brick, and the brick or stone being improperly patched, stained, or both.
• Mortar splattered on the brick, mortar joints failing to match the existing color and finish, and/or clear indications that the wrong mortar was used during the repointing.
• The chimney rain cap is too small or not firmly fastened.
• In the mortar joints and/or masonry units (brick, stone, block), including stucco, are minute fractures that can be seen.
• Paint peeling and scaling and failing to adhere effectively.
• The chimney appears unfinished and unclean due to inadequate cleaning.
• The chimney is adequately sealed or covered with a high-quality commercial water repellant.
• When a fracture in a mortar joint is sealed with clear silicone, the result is a terrible aesthetic and an almost instantaneous failure.

Due to the problems that can arise from hiring the wrong contractor, it is not a good idea to take the chimney repair job lightly. If chimneys are not correctly fixed, they may eventually leak, cause internal water damage, and possibly even cause structural damage to the house or roof.

Understanding chimney repairs

Since most homes have a chimney, chimney repair work is extremely common. The good thing is that most chimneys are still constructed using masonry; the most popular materials for chimney construction are brick, stone, or stucco.

While some repair contractors concentrate exclusively on outside chimney repairs, others clean or “sweep” the internal firebox, replace the chimney’s lining with more modern metal or traditional clay tile flues, and/or do interior firebox maintenance.

The owner has the option of choosing which chimney repair firm to work with, but generally speaking, the organizations that offer a one-stop shop have limited expertise when it comes to masonry repairs on the exterior of the chimney.

It’s easy to understand why. The highly competent masonry repair professionals in their industries are the best talent these “Do it all” chimney companies cannot attract with greater salaries and perks to remain competitive.

They are thus forced to “Do it All” with the help of less experienced personnel.

A “Do it All” technician (a handyman with limited masonry experience) will notice the difference in craftsmanship between a chimney completed by an expert and one done by a layperson. The quality and longevity of masonry and chimney repairs can vary greatly.

How do you hire the right contractor for your project?

For you to get the results in your project you should only hire highly experienced contractors. While the cost difference may reach up to 50%, the repair work will save you significant money over time since there won’t be any need for rework anytime soon. It will look fantastic for many years.

You should look for a reputable contractor or specialist in masonry and chimney restoration. A reputable provider will offer a prompt and equitable quote and a full craftsmanship warranty lasting at least two to three years.

Occasionally, a contractor of this kind will even promise that there won’t be any leaks during the warranty period—unless there’s a natural or artificial disaster, like a tree falling on the chimney, etc.

This skilled masonry contractor will be able to deliver a finished result that will prevent your chimney from leaking for years. They will also know how to make long-lasting upgrades and repairs to your chimney and that water is terrible for masonry.

Compared to the “Do It All” kind, they will provide superior protection against the weather for your chimney and valuable belongings.

Hiring a chimney sweep service is fine if you want your flues or chimney liner cleaned, but don’t be penny-wise and pound-foolish when it comes to the brick structure of your cherished home’s outside chimney.

Where can you locate the specialists in chimney repairs and masonry restoration? By checking with the Better Business Bureau, look for A+ accredited masonry restoration or repair firms. Next, look up A-rated businesses on Angie’s List by cross-referencing it, visiting Google+ pages, etc.

Finding out who is a current member of trade associations like IREM (International Real Estate Management), IFMA (International Facilities Management Association), and/or BOMA (Building Owners and Managers Association) could be beneficial.

A contractor member of a professional body will most likely provide a better service as they are concerned about losing their accreditation.

Parting shot

As you have read, it’s paramount that you know the chimney repair Columbia MD that you hire. As a rule of thumb, take your time to research and find a reputable one that will give you the great experience that you are after.

As mentioned, only work with a reputable contractor, preferably one accredited by a professional body. This way, you will be sure they will give you a great experience as they will be cautious about losing their accreditation if they provide poor artistry.

The post Signs of Non-Professional Chimney Repair first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

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

You may have heard from friends or family about keeping your fireplace open during the summer, so long as you have a chimney cap to keep the debris and animals out. Keeping the fireplace open all summer is known as “airing out” the fireplace. It makes sense, keep the stale air out and let fresh air in. Is it possible to air out the fireplace with only a chimney cap in place? 

What’s Left Over from the Winter

Inside the firebox and flue, there is most likely stale air and creosote buildup, especially if it’s a woodburning fireplace. Creosote is a natural residue left over from the combustion process. The creosote leaves a chemical smell inside your chimney, and should be cleaned regularly, as it’s highly flammable. There may also be ashes, small cracks, and small leaks inside the chimney. You need to get your chimney swept and inspected by a certified professional to prevent any further damages moving forward.

Why You Need a Chimney Cap in the Summer

During the summer months, while your chimney is not in use, it is especially important to have a chimney cap!

• Prevents Moisture Build-up: Without a chimney cap, rainwater can easily enter your chimney and cause moisture build-up. This can lead to mold growth, foul odors, and even structural damage to your chimney.

• Blocks Nesting Animals: Many animals seek shelter in chimneys during the warmer months to nest and raise their young. A chimney cap will prevent these animals from entering your chimney and cause a fire hazard.
• Avoids Debris Accumulation: Even in the summer, leaves, twigs, and other debris can still find their way into your chimney if it is left uncovered. A chimney cap will block these materials from entering and causing a blockage.

Can You Air Out Your Chimney?

Unfortunately, it’s not recommended to keep your chimney open. All summer long, you’ll be letting the damp, summer air in from the outside. Mold and mildew will naturally form in the flue. You’ll quickly need to clean the inside of the flue again before using it in the winter! That’s two times you’d get your chimney swept, once before the summer and once after. Even with a chimney cap to prevent animals from settling inside, and keeping most of the rain water out, a certified chimney professional highly advises that you close the damper when not in use. 

What About Gas Fireplaces?

If you have a gas fireplace, there’s an extra step you must do before closing your damper during summer months. The gas and pilot light must be shut off. This prevents the burner from getting clogged and making sure there’s no flammable gasses floating around your home. If you are not sure how to close the gas and pilot light, Superior Chimney professionals can help.

Need Help Closing up Your Fireplace? Superior Chimney professionals are happy to help you with closing up your gas or masonry fireplaces. We provide services all throughout the Chicagoland area. A certified chimney professional will ensure your chimney cap is well fitted and in place for the summer, so no bugs, animals or rain can get in. Call us today to set up an appointment at 877-244-6349.

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

Let’s face it, chimney tuckpointing isn’t at the top of your mind this summer. Spring cleaning is over, it’s time for a vacation. Maybe spending time at Lake Michigan or the pool took over your to-do list! But, have you noticed some familiar critters falling from the trees (and into your pool…) all over the Chicagoland area? Big cicadas made their way out this spring, and created plenty of mischief like crawling into the loose chimney cap and cracks in the mortar. However, there are a variety of bugs and critters that crawl through your chimney’s cap and cracks, especially if you haven’t gotten the chimney tuckpointing or the chimney cap checked recently. 

How Do Bugs Get In?

Bugs are small and sneaky. They can crawl into your home through any unsealed crack. A chimney that hasn’t been repaired is at high risk for bugs (even weather elements) to find a cozy home inside a chimney crack. Especially spiders, stink bugs, and ants. Sometimes, you can’t even see the cracks without squinting for a closer look. A thorough inspection by a certified chimney expert at Superior Chimney can help you identify underlying mortar problems that are not readily visible.

How Does Tuckpointing Work?

Notice any holes in the outside of your chimney? Maybe some bricks are flaking or falling apart, or chunks of masonry missing from the chimney? These are common signs that your chimney needs repair. A certified chimney professional will grind down any existing compromised mortar between the bricks and replace it with new mortar that blends with the rest of your mortar and home. Chimney tuckpointing doesn’t need to happen every year, you just need to get your chimney checked for damages once a year from the winter freeze thaw cycles. That’s because the weather in Chicago is brutal between the rain, wind, snow, and changes in temperatures. Damages caused by weather, bugs or critters that are left unfixed can take a toll on the chimney, costing you lots of unnecessary money in repairs. Preventative checks are always the best and more cost-effective way to go.

When to Invest in Chimney Tuckpointing

Like we said before, if you notice any visible cracking, it’s time to call a certified chimney professional. But when you should invest in chimney tuckpointing is based on a few more factors. 

• Age of your home: if you have an older home, your chimney may be more susceptible to mortar deterioration. Natural wear and tear occurs over time, so it’s important to keep up to date on any chimney repairs.
• Environmental damage: The Chicagoland area has experienced some significant weather changes over the past few months. Rain, humidity, snow, wind and freezing temperatures take a toll on the chimney’s brick and mortar structure.
• A Proactive Approach: Regular inspections and timely chimney tuckpointing help to avoid any unexpected costs in the future. It also reduces the risk of damage to your home, and stops any unwanted bugs from entering through the cracks.

Catch Them Early!

Don’t let those nasty summer bugs live inside the cracks of your chimney. Call Superior Chimney for a chimney inspection today. A professional will decide to what extent your chimney needs tuckpointing repair, and get the job done right. Call us today for an inspection at 877-244-6349. 

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

“Is it safe to use my chimney?” is a common question many homeowners ask themselves. Regretfully, not all the information about the topic is correct.

You should note that the safety of your chimney is dependent on numerous factors, some of which are under your control and others of which are not.

Thankfully, there are several measures you can take to ensure your chimney is as secure as possible by being aware of the apparent warning flags. These signs include:

Animal nests and debris buildup

Squirrels, bats, and birds are just a few creatures that could live in your chimney. Chimney inspection professionals advise that using your chimney is dangerous if you witness animals emerging from it or hear strange noises like squeaking, shrieking, or cheeping.

Smoke can find it difficult to escape due to obstructions and buildups. Additionally, they may contain diseases that you and your family could contract.

In addition, any debris—such as sticks or leaves—inside your chimney may indicate an obstruction that could become harmful if you try to start a fire.

Have your chimney inspected by a competent provider before using it. Before using your fireplace, ensure everything is safe; cleaning it yourself could be risky.

Smoke draw issues

A draft produced by the rising hot air in a chimney at optimal working conditions draws smoke up and out of the hearth. This draft may be disrupted by obstructions or other problems, which cause the smoke to start re-entering your house.

This lessens the appropriate airflow that keeps your fireplace burning correctly.

In addition, harmful chemicals from combustion and smoke, such as carbon monoxide, might seep into your house. Because CO poisoning is a severe health risk that can be fatal, it’s critical to recognize the signs and leave your home as soon as possible.

Some of the signs you should look out for include:

• Headaches
• Neasa
• Weariness
• Bewilderment
• Irritation

If you encounter these symptoms, immediately leave your home and dial 911.

To ensure that your family is always safe, consider installing carbon monoxide detectors that will let you know when the levels of carbon monoxide are too high.

Broken or blocked chimney flue

According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), a clogged flue is one of the main causes of chimney fires. Possible obstruction causes include creosote accumulation, fallen leaves, and bird nests.

You should note that your flue will not draft correctly if it is entirely or partially obstructed.

When hazardous gasses accumulate inside your home due to a broken or obstructed chimney flue, you and your family risk carbon monoxide poisoning.

To help you out, the following are some indicators that your chimney flue may require repair:

• Your chimney has a fire, but the smoke isn’t rising.
• Your fireplace’s draft isn’t as forceful as it once was.
• There are gaps in your chimney mortar through which light can enter.
• Your chimney’s inside has a buildup of soot or creosote.

If you observe any of these symptoms, you should get your chimney inspected by a professional as soon as possible.

The beauty is that expert chimney sweepers have the necessary training, equipment, and supplies to ensure that your fireplace and chimney are in good operating order.

They will assess whether the chimney has to be replaced or if they can resolve the issue.

You have soot and creosote buildup.

Inspecting your chimney for soot and creosote accumulation is imperative to ascertain its safety. Soot is the black powder left over after burning wood.

When wood doesn’t burn all the way through, creosote, which resembles black or brown tar, accumulates on the walls of your chimney.

This material is highly combustible, and if it accumulates enough, it can cause chimney fires. In addition, a house fire can quickly follow a chimney fire.

If there is more than one-eighth or a quarter-inch of soot or creosote on the walls, it’s time to have your chimney cleaned.

Creosote comes in three classes with varying degrees of risk.

Stage 1 is the most prevalent and least harmful kind of creosote. Typically, it is detected in small amounts and effortlessly eliminated with a wire brush.

If stage 2 creosote is not cleaned frequently, it can lead to chimney fires and is more challenging to remove.

The most dangerous kind of creosote is stage 3, which is nearly impossible to remove and readily ignites, creating a potentially devastating chimney fire.

You should seek advice from qualified chimney sweepers if you are worried about creosote accumulation in your chimney.

The professionals will evaluate the circumstances surrounding the creosote and recommend the best course of action.

Getting professional help early when using your chimney will save you money and ensure the safety of your house.

Leaks

Leaks are the main offender when it comes to the early warning indicators of a failing chimney. You should note that it’s time for repairs if you hear or see droplets coming from your chimney. After looking into other places in your home, determine where they might be coming from.

Given how fast water travels across surfaces, locating the leak’s source might be challenging for the untrained eye. You should note that in most cases, a broken or cracked chimney crown or chase cover is a common reason for chimney leaks.

The concrete slab that sits on top of your chimney to shield it from the elements is the chimney crown. Temperature variations and moisture can cause this part to deteriorate and crack over time.

As a result, there might be a leak. To be on the safe side, have an expert inspect the area and fix any issues that might be there.

Parting shot

These are some of the signs that might signal that your chimney isn’t safe. To stay on the safe side, work with experienced chimney contractors Elicott City who will not only inspect the unit but also recommend the best course of action.

The post Is Your Chimney Safe to Use? first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

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

When purchasing a home, the importance of a thorough inspection cannot be overstated, especially when it comes to critical components like the fireplace and chimney, which should be inspected by a certified chimney professional. While a general home inspector provides a broad overview of the property’s condition, relying solely on them for chimney inspections can overlook crucial details that only a certified chimney professional can identify. Here’s why opting for a certified chimney professional is essential:

Certified Chimney Professionals have Specialized Expertise

Certified chimney professionals undergo specialized training and certification focused specifically on chimneys and fireplaces. They possess deep knowledge of chimney construction, materials, and venting systems. This expertise allows them to conduct detailed inspections that encompass structural integrity, proper functioning of flues and dampers, and the presence of hazardous creosote buildup. Unlike a home inspector who may lack specific chimney-related training, a certified chimney professional can identify potential issues early, preventing costly repairs down the line.

Certified Chimney Professionals use Advanced Inspection Tools

One of the distinct advantages of hiring a certified chimney professional is their use of advanced tools such as chimney cameras. These cameras provide an inside look into the chimney’s condition, revealing hidden problems like cracks, blockages, or deteriorating liners. This thorough inspection is crucial for assessing safety risks and ensuring compliance with current codes and standards. Home inspectors typically do not have access to such specialized equipment, which limits their ability to provide a comprehensive evaluation of chimney systems.

Certified Chimney Professionals are up to date on Codes and Standards

Building codes and safety standards for chimneys and fireplaces are continuously updated to enhance performance and mitigate risks. Certified chimney professionals stay updated with these regulations and ensure that your chimney meets current requirements. They understand clearance specifications, proper venting practices, and the installation of necessary components. By adhering to these codes, they help minimize the risk of fire hazards, carbon monoxide leaks, and other safety concerns that could arise from outdated or improperly maintained chimney systems.

Prevent Costly Remediation

Neglecting a thorough chimney inspection by a certified professional can lead to significant expenses after purchasing a home. Issues like structural damage, leaks, improper venting, or inadequate insulation can remain undetected, potentially requiring extensive repairs or even complete chimney reconstruction. By investing in a certified inspection upfront, homebuyers can avoid these costly surprises and negotiate necessary repairs or adjustments before finalizing the purchase.

Peace of Mind

Beyond financial considerations, hiring a certified chimney professional provides peace of mind. Knowing that your fireplace and chimney are safe, efficient, and compliant with current standards allows homeowners to enjoy their new home without worrying about potential hazards or regulatory issues.

In conclusion, while home inspectors play a crucial role in assessing general property conditions, they may not possess the specialized knowledge or tools required for thorough chimney inspections. Choosing a certified chimney professional ensures that you receive a comprehensive evaluation using advanced equipment and in-depth expertise. This proactive approach not only safeguards your investment but also enhances the safety and functionality of your fireplace and chimney. By prioritizing a certified inspection during the home buying process, you can make informed decisions and address any chimney-related issues promptly, ensuring a secure and comfortable living environment for years to come.

The post Buying or Selling Your Home? Certified Chimney Professional Inspection – A Must for Successful Real Estate Transactions in 2024 first appeared on Southern Chimneys.

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

In the world of commercial chimney maintenance, staying ahead of potential issues is crucial for safety and operational efficiency, making commercial chimney inspections necessary. But when technology expands, so do our strategies and services. That is exactly why we offer drone inspections!

At Best Chimney Services, we prioritize your building’s operation and tenants’ safety, hence why we take chimney safety so seriously. Maintaining your commercial chimney is essential for ensuring your chimney is operating safely without any existing damage or growing problems. Stay updated with your chimney by booking a commercial chimney inspection today! In the meantime, learn about the game-changing benefits for both chimney technicians and property owners of booking commercial chimney drone inspections, below.

Enhancing Accessibility & Safety

Traditional chimney inspections can be dangerous at times, making the process time-consuming and hazardous depending on the size of the building. With the addition of drones, chimney technicians are able to access those hard-to-reach areas without putting themselves at risk or losing high-quality visuals.

Gaining High-Quality Visual Data

Commercial chimney drone inspections provide high-resolution images and video footage of your chimney. This detailed visual data allows technicians to detect even minor cracks, blockages, or structural issues that may not be visible during a standard inspection but require a necessary chimney repair. Property owners then benefit from a more thorough understanding of their chimney’s condition by having the chance to see what’s happening inside and outside of the structure without having to access the chimney.

Improving Cost-Effectiveness

While the upfront expense of adopting drone technology may seem considerable, its long-term advantages justify the investment. By cutting down on inspection time and labor, drone technology enables chimney service companies to operate more efficiently. This efficiency directly benefits customers by potentially preventing costly repairs and minimizing safety risks through early issue detection, while also offering a more cost-effective chimney inspection option.

Showing a Commitment to Customers

Choosing a chimney company that utilizes drone technology demonstrates a commitment to quality and innovation. Customers appreciate the transparency and professionalism that come with advanced inspection methods. The ability to view drone footage and inspection reports instills confidence in the service provided, fostering trust and long-term relationships.

Furthering Environmental Consciousness

Depending on the current status of your commercial chimney and access, heavy equipment  may be necessary for a traditional inspection which operate on fossil fuels. With the use of drone inspections, you minimize the carbon footprint associated with typical methods. Therefore, furthering your dedication to environmental sustainability as a property owner.

Book Your Drone Chimney Inspection with Best Chimney Services

Commercial chimney drone inspections offer benefits for both you and your local chimney technician. You gain the benefits of efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability as a property owner, while chimney technicians can benefit from advanced safety. By taking advantage of drone inspections, you’re staying ahead of the curve by maintaining your chimney for safe operation. Give us a call today to book your first drone chimney inspection, or to learn about our other reliable commercial chimney services. 

The post The Benefits of a Commercial Chimney Drone Inspection appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Do you love to use your outdoor fireplace during the summer to roast marshmallows, host outdoor gatherings, or simply warm up on a cooler night? It’s one of the many benefits of having an outdoor fireplace! However, it’s important to take care of your outdoor fireplace in order to ensure it’s safe to use and performing efficiently.

At Best Chimney Services, we help homeowners keep their chimneys in the best and most efficient condition for proper operation and safety. We’ve offered a range of residential and commercial chimney services in the Boston area since 1989. If you believe your outdoor fireplace with a chimney needs to be inspected or cleaned, give us a call! In the meantime, learn about the regular maintenance you should be performing this summer, below.

Regular Cleanings

One of the most important steps to maintaining your outdoor fireplace is with regular sweepings. Over time, your chimney and fireplace will accumulate ash, soot, and other debris that can affect the operation and safety of your fireplace. At a bare minimum, you’ll want to remove any debris or ash sitting in the firebox before each usage. 

As for a less consistent maintenance procedure, we recommend having your chimney professionally inspected and swept at least once during the summer to avoid creosote buildup. Creosote buildup can lead to dangerous chimney fires because of how flammable creosote is if not removed.

Cut Back Nearby Vegetation

Many don’t know that overgrown vegetation around your outdoor fireplace can pose a fire hazard. During the summer, plants and trees can grow rapidly, so keeping them trimmed back is important. Keep any plants, bushes, and trees at least ten feet away from your fireplace and chimney. This reduces the risk of fire spreading to nearby vegetation. This will also help improve airflow and reduce the risk of sparks igniting nearby foliage.

Inspect for Damage

Booking regular inspections can help you identify and address any potential signs of chimney damage before they become major problems. Inspect the exterior and interior of your fireplace and chimney for any signs of cracks or deterioration. Pay close attention to the mortar joints, as these can wear down over time, and ensure that the chimney cap isn’t rusting and is securely in place. The chimney cap prevents rain, debris, and animals from entering your chimney, which can cause blockages and damage.

Schedule Professional Inspections

While regular sweepings and inspections are essential, it’s also important to schedule professional maintenance with your local certified chimney technicians at least once a year. Hire a professional chimney sweep to thoroughly clean your chimney and inspect for any hidden issues that may not be visible to the untrained eye. 

Reach Out to Best Chimney to Maintain Your Outdoor Fireplace

Are you unsure how to maintain your outdoor fireplace? Give us a call to get started! Following these tips and working with chimney technicians will ensure that your fireplace is running safely and can be enjoyed all summer long. Schedule an appointment with us today for your first chimney inspection.

The post How to Take Care of Your Outdoor Fireplace in the Summer appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Why Now is the Perfect Time for a Chimney Inspection

As New Englanders, we’re savoring these precious moments outdoors, basking in the warmth and beauty of our current season. Yet, we know all too well how swiftly the weather can change in our corner of the world. Before we know it, the crisp autumn air will beckon us indoors, and we’ll be reaching for that cozy throw blanket and lighting the season’s first fire. At Best Chimney, we understand that now is the perfect time to prepare your home for the ever-changing New England seasons. While you’re enjoying the outdoors, let us help you ensure your chimney is ready to keep you warm and safe when those chilly nights inevitably return.

Your home is more than just a structure; it’s a complex network of systems working in harmony, much like your car or your own body. We understand that your house is not only your largest investment but also the place where your family finds safety and comfort and builds lasting memories. Just as you wouldn’t wait for your car to break down before seeing a mechanic or ignoring your health until you fall ill, your home deserves the same proactive care and attention.

That’s where we come in. At Best Chimney, we bring our expertise to bear on one of your home’s most crucial systems – the chimney. Regular, professional inspections are key to ensuring your chimney functions safely and efficiently, protecting your home and loved ones from potential hazards. Let’s explore the two types of chimney inspections we offer, along with some home-saving and money-saving tips:

Level 1 Chimney Inspection:

Our basic inspection is ideal for annual maintenance when no significant changes have been made to your chimney system. During a Level 1 inspection, our certified technicians will:

1. Examine readily accessible portions of the chimney’s interior and exterior
2. Check the basic structural integrity of the chimney and flue
3. Ensure the chimney is free from obstructions and combustible deposits
4. Verify proper installation and security of chimney connections and appliances
5. Inspection of visible portions of the chimney exterior

Level 2 Chimney Inspection:

This more comprehensive examination is necessary when changes occur in your system, such as switching fuel types or after events that might have damaged the chimney, like a fire or severe weather. A Level 2 inspection includes everything in a Level 1 inspection, plus:

1. Inspection of accessible areas in the attic, basement, and crawl spaces
2. Evaluation of the chimney’s interior using specialized video scanning equipment
3. Verification of proper clearances from combustibles in accessible locations
4. Assessment of flue liner condition with internal camera

By scheduling regular inspections, you’re taking a proactive step in maintaining your home’s safety and efficiency. This proactive care ensures that most issues in your chimney, which aren’t visible to the untrained eye, can be identified and resolved before they become costly hazards. This not only saves you money but also ensures your peace of mind, knowing that your home is safe and efficient.

As you enjoy the current season, let Best Chimney help you prepare for the changes ahead. Our expert inspections and maintenance services will ensure that when the time comes to light that first fire or turn on your heat, your chimney will be ready to perform safely and efficiently, keeping your home warm and your family protected throughout the coming New England seasons.

The post Preparing for New England’s Changing Seasons: appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.