Assuming your fireplace and chimney system are in overall good working order, the answer why your fireplace is cold and drafty is fairly straightforward. Cold air from outside is getting into the chimney and flowing down to escape from the fireplace. There are several ways you can prevent this problem or lessen its impact.

If you’re using a traditional masonry fireplace, you have what’s known as an open system. That means there’s a clear path from the top of your chimney to the opening of the firebox for air to move. Keeping a masonry fireplace from being cold and drafty during the cold months requires several steps.

Make sure your throat damper is in good shape

The throat damper, located just above the firebox and operated with a handle, is a key line of defense against cold drafts. When new, dampers create a tight seal, usually metal on metal, and block out the cold air.

Over time, dampers can become rusted and warped, thereby compromising their seal. If your damper is damaged, it can be replaced. Also: it’s easy to forget to close the damper when the fireplace isn’t in use, so make a mental note to do this.

Top-sealing damper

If your throat damper is in questionable shape, or if you simply want an added layer of protection, consider having a top-sealing damper installed. These components sit at the top of the chimney and close tightly to prevent air from entering the flue.

As long as your throat damper can still open fully (necessary for efficient fires and proper drafting) it’s often more economical to install a damper up top rather than replace a faulty throat damper.

 Fireplace doors

As you can see, our suggestions so far are targeting the problem of incoming air. Fireplace doors are another way to target this problem. A sturdy set of new fireplace doors can be kept closed when the fireplace isn’t being used and provide a strong barrier against infiltrating cold air. Not only do fireplace doors keep the cold air out, they also look fantastic and will add an immediate touch of elegance to any fireplace.

Install a fireback

Usually made of cast iron, a fireback is a large plate installed inside the fireplace to protect the firebox. It also absorbs heat from the fire and radiates it out into the room. A fireback doesn’t address air flow, but it definitely adds a significant warming effect and creates a more comfortable living environment.

Add a fireplace heater

Another way to increase the heating efficiency of a masonry fireplace is to add a fireplace heater. These devices take air inside the room, circulated it through the heat inside the fireplace, and send it back to the room. Because fireplace heaters work on a closed circuit system, they won’t send smoke into the room along with the warm air. These are some ways to deal with a cold and drafty fireplace. Along with improving heat efficiency, you also want to make sure every part of your fireplace is safe and working properly. They way to do this is with regularly scheduled chimney cleanings, chimney inspections and prompt repairs of damaged masonry or components.

High’s Chimney Service of Gaithersburg, MD, is standing by to help with all your fireplace cleaning, service and maintenance needs. Call us today at (301) 519-3500.

 

The post Why Is My Fireplace Cold & Drafty? appeared first on Highs Chimney.

As people are making resolutions to exercise, leave toxic relationships, read, and diet, one of the best resolutions you can make is to undertake chimney inspection.

Why are chimney inspections necessary?

The main reason for the inspections is to keep the chimney clean so that it’s safe. During winter, you have been incessantly using the fireplace, which means that smoke, creosote, and other materials might have built up in it.

Creosote is highly flammable when you don’t remove it early enough hence leading to chimney fire. When you inspect the chimney you can tell whether it has accumulated a lot of creosote which puts your property at the risk of catching fire.

What does the cleaning process entail?

The inspection process requires you to hire an experienced professional to take a look at the chimney and identify any flaws it might be having. If you have the skills, you can go ahead and inspect it by yourself.

The inspection process has three levels:

Level 1 inspection

It’s the most essential process and it involves a visual check of the fireplace and chimney without any special equipment or getting up on the roof.

When you hire a contractor, he/she comes to your house with a flashlight then looks for obstructions, damage, soot, and creosote buildup.

The contractor inspects the readily accessible areas of the chimney, such as the clearance from the stove and size of the firebox. It’s after the inspection that he/she will decide whether the fireplace needs cleaning.

The chimney will merit a sweep if there is a lot of creosote build-up, or there is a lot of debris blocking the air ducts. The contractor will also recommend cleaning the chimney if there are birds or animals nesting there.

Level 2 inspection

Level 2 inspection takes a closer look at the chimney using video equipment. The chimney technician will recommend level 2 inspection when he/she notices signs of wear and tear and other signs of serious damage to the chimney.

If you experienced heavy storms, earthquakes, or hurricanes during the winter months, level 2 inspection will help you determine the extent of the damage. Level 2 inspection is also necessary when looking to buy or sell a home or change your heating system.

During the inspection, the technician will get into the attic, crawl space, or any other area where they can get a closer look at the hidden parts of the chimney.

The technician also inserts a color video camera into the chimney to survey the interior walls of the fireplace for signs of corrosion, water intrusion, deterioration, and other signs of damage.

You should note that some untrustworthy technicians will tell you that a particular part is damaged so that they can make a sale. While you shouldn’t dismiss it, take it with a grain of salt.

A trustworthy technician should give you a copy of the video so that you can see the problematic areas before fixing them.

Level 3 inspection

Level 3 inspection goes deeper and is meant to unravel any indications of hidden severe problems that you didn’t uncover with level 2 inspection.

Here the technician removes pieces of chimney or materials to get full access to the areas you are looking to inspect. Level 3 inspection is the most expensive as it requires you to remove and restore the parts of your home.

Can you inspect the chimney by yourself?

Even if you have the necessary skills, it’s always wise to leave the inspection to the professionals. The experts have the essential tools and equipment to find the internal and external issues that an untrained homeowner can’t identify.

When the contractor identifies problems within the chimney, he/she will also be in a better position to fix them since they are experienced enough.

What should you look out for when hiring an inspection technician?

As mentioned, you should leave the inspection work to a professional. Unfortunately, not all contractors are right for you.

One of the prime factors to consider is the amount charged by the contractor. How much are they charging you? Even if you want to save as much money from the contractors as possible, you don’t want to go for the cheapest technician, as they will most likely be inexperienced. They also will give you substandard services.

You will be better off with costly chimney contractors Bowie than with cheap ones.

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

Traditional masonry chimneys aren’t built to last forever, and thanks to unavoidable rain and moisture, these structures can become damaged and unsafe faster than you would expect.

According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA):

“All masonry chimney construction materials, except stone, will suffer accelerated deterioration as a result of prolonged contact with water.

 

 

Masonry materials deteriorate quickly when exposed to the freeze/thaw process, in which moisture that has penetrated the materials periodically freezes and expands causing undue stress.”

“Water in the chimney also causes rust in steel and cast iron, weakening or destroying the metal parts.”

These are just a few of the reasons that masonry chimney maintenance is so important. Fortunately, keeping your chimney in top working shape isn’t difficult when work is performed by CSIA-certified chimney specialists.

Here are some key tasks involved in properly maintaining your chimney.

Watch for signs of a leaky chimney

Often a leaky chimney will present obvious signs. When you see them, it’s time to have your chimney professionally inspected.

Water dripping into the firebox

Efflorescence (white staining) on the exterior chimney masonry

Strong, musty odors coming from the fireplace

Interior walls and ceiling that are damp to the touch or discolored

Areas of crumbling in the firebox or on the roof near the chimney – these are signs of deterioration that could be caused by or lead to a chimney leak

Annual chimney sweep services

Having your chimney cleaned once a year by a certified technician is the best way to prevent a dangerous chimney fire. Creosote, which is created when wood burns, clings to the inside of the chimney liner and builds up over time. This substance isn’t always easy to remove, but chimney experts have specialized scrapers, rotating brushes, solvents and vacuums to do a thorough job.

Obstruction removal

In addition to creosote, various debris can end up inside a chimney and create a drafting obstruction. Leaves and twigs from trees and the nests of small animals are common reasons smoke doesn’t draft well and fires are difficult to get started. Chimney blockages are of particular concern because they can cause smoke and deadly carbon monoxide to back up into the house. Having chimney obstructions removed will keep you and your family safe.

Annual chimney inspections

By having certified inspections once a year, you’ll be able to spot early chimney/fireplace damage and get it repaired before it becomes an expensive and dangerous problem. Basic chimney inspections cover:

Chimney cap

Chimney crown

Chimney liner

Exterior masonry

Roof flashing

Smoke chamber surfaces

Dampers

In some cases, video technology is used to zero in on difficult-to-access areas.

 Timely repair services

Licensed chimney repair technicians can handle any level of chimney repair and give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing the job was done safely and correctly.

Technicians can find and repair leaky chimneys, replace missing areas of brick and mortar, repair or replace chimney liners, install chimney caps and flashing, seal and repair cracks in chimney crowns and perform other vital services that keep your chimney safe and fully operational.

Northeastern Chimney of West Hartford, CT, provides CSIA-certified chimney sweep, inspection and repair services all year long. Learn more about how we can maintain your chimney for safety and performance by calling (860) 233-5770.

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

2019 was an amazing year for all of us here at Southern Chimneys. We really hit a stride and have become the leading Atlanta company for chimney and fireplace repair, installation, and inspections. 

Thank you, our loyal customers and new friends, for all the encouragement, support, and kindness you’ve shown us when we pull up to your homes in our Southern Chimneys van. It’s our pleasure to take care of your home and make it the safest and warmest it can be. 

As the weather gets colder and we move into GO SEASON(!) around here, we want to be reminded of what a great spring and summer we had in 2019 and look forward to how awesome 2020 will be. 

Here’s a look back at some of our best blogs and articles from the previous year. Now, on to 2020!

5 Reasons Why Spring is the Best Time to Get Your Chimney Inspected

Why You Should Get Your Chimney Inspected

6 Reasons You Need To Think About Your Chimney This Summer

Hurry! Why You Should Get Your Chimney Inspected Now

4 Reasons Now’s the Time for Your Chimney Inspection 

Looking to Convert Your Wood Fireplace to Gas Logs?

What to Expect from Your Chimney Inspection

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

There’s nothing more beautiful, warm and inviting than a
wood burning fireplace. It’s frequently featured in family pictures and is
often the center of attention in a home. That’s because a wood burning
fireplace is special. Some enjoy watching the flames and listening to the
crackles of the burning wood. Others enjoy tending to the fire, often picking
up the poker to adjust the log by an inch. Children often lay in front of the
fireplace to feel its warmth.

As much attention as we give a fireplace, it’s critical to
place the same amount of devotion to the care of wood burning fireplaces. On
our website,
we report on chimney
fires. Our intention is to educate and prevent fires, injury and damage to
your family and home. In the month of December, there were over 70 fires
reported in the online news, a few were right here in Park Ridge, Deer Park and
Libertyville.

Common Cause & Prevention of Chimney Fires

Last article
or post, we (and Santa) talked about keeping holiday wrappings and the
Christmas tree away from the fireplace as they both are highly flammable. We’ve
also talked about the build-up of creosote for good
reason. It’s the most common cause of chimney fires. So, how can you keep the
build-up of creosote to a minimum? Here are a few tips:

• Have Superior Chimney clean and check your
  fireplace and chimney each year
• Keep the damper
  open to allow proper airflow
• Minimize the amount of wood burning in the
  firebox at one time
• Use seasoned wood, as it removes moisture
  allowing for a better and safer burn

What are the Signs of a Chimney on Fire?

Superior Chimney is often asked, “How do I know if my
chimney is on fire?” This is a great question. If you know what to
listen…look…or smell for, that can help.

• Listen: the fireplace can have a loud crackling
  sound or a popping sound. It may even sound like a freight train or an
  airplane.
• Look: the chimney can have flames shooting out
  from the top, or lots of dense smoke entering your home.
• Smell: the fireplace can have a hot intense
  smoky, bad smell.

It’s true that the article talked about prevention before
the signs of a fire, and it’s for a good reason. Superior Chimney wants you to
get the most enjoyment from your wood burning fireplace in the safest way
possible. So if you haven’t cleaned your
fireplace and chimney yet, now’s the time to get it done so you can ring in
the New Year with family and friends by the fireplace…safely.

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

Although every type of fireplace burns fuel and provides a degree of warmth, not every fireplace is the same. Depending on the type you have, certain maintenance tasks will be necessary to keep it safe and operating at peak levels. Let’s look at the most popular fireplace styles.

Open masonry fireplace

These are the traditional fireplaces, built into a wall by a mason and often surrounded by brick, stone or other materials. Unless the fireplace has been retrofitted, it burns wood logs.

Masonry fireplaces look fabulous and add a rustic touch of charm to a home, but they’re not particularly good heat producers. The open design of these fireplaces allows about 80% or more of the heat they create to be lost up the chimney.

Maintaining a masonry fireplace centers around cleaning and inspection. Wood fires produce creosote, which builds up in your flue and can ignite and start a chimney fire. Certified chimney sweeps use specialized tools to remove creosote and other obstructions from your chimney to keep it safe for use.

Gas & wood Inserts

Inserts are built in factories and are sized to fit directly into the fireboxes of masonry fireplaces. Fireplace inserts are powerful heat producers and add a stunning decorative accent to your home.

Gas inserts should be inspected annually to ensure that the components and gas line connections are in good shape.

 

 

Wood inserts, like any wood-burning appliance, need yearly service from a chimney sweep to remove creosote and soot from the vent pipe. Fireplace inserts require venting, but not with the existing chimney. Custom vent pipes are included with both styles of inserts.

Zero-clearance gas and wood fireplaces

These appliances get their name from their heavy-duty insulation properties that make them safe to install within virtually any wall in the home with no clearance required between the unit and adjacent wall materials and flooring. Similar in performance to fireplace inserts, ZC fireplaces are self-contained units that are installed in places other than the firebox of an existing fireplace.

Zero-clearance fireplaces retain the heat they produce – as much as 80% to 90% of it – and send the heat into the room rather than up the vent pipe. A gas model needs annual safety inspections; a wood-burning model needs inspection along with professional cleaning of the vent system that comes with the unit.

Gas log sets

Gas logs are used in an existing wood-burning fireplace. When professionally installed, these devices create safe warmth and a lot of beauty, with logs that look remarkably similar to real wood.

A gas log set gives you lovely fires but none of the mess and professional cleaning requirements of a wood fireplace.

No matter what type of fireplace you have, it can bring you many years of pleasure and enjoyment. The key to getting the most out of your fireplace is to stay on top of maintenance, which means regular inspection and necessary repairs. For wood-burning units, proper maintenance includes chimney/vent pipe cleaning once a year.

High’s Chimney Service of Gaithersburg, MD, is ready to help keep your fireplace safe and running at peak efficiency. We offer CSIA-certified chimney sweep services, fireplace and chimney inspection and repairs on all types of fireplaces and heating stoves. Call us today at (301) 519-3500.

 

The post What Type of Fireplace Do You Have? Here’s how to Tell. appeared first on Highs Chimney.

Do you want to update your fireplace or add a new fireplace in your home? When you buy an EPA-approved fireplace, you are getting an efficient heating appliance that can help you cut your winter utility costs. Zero-clearance fireplaces can be installed in virtually any room of your home. Below, learn about a great way to upgrade your fireplace and also possibilities for new, modernized fireplace installations.

Improve Efficiency and Appearance

Do you have a traditional masonry fireplace? If so, you may have noticed that it doesn’t add much as far as heating your home. As lovely as these types of fireplaces can be, beauty and the ambiance created by fires are typically their only benefits. The efficiency rating of a masonry fireplace is, at best, a mere 10%. What that means is that 90% of the heat escapes through the chimney.

If you have a wood, gas, or pellet fireplace insert installed, the efficiency of your appliance will increase to 70% minimum. A fireplace insert is a closed-combustion firebox that is built specifically for an existing fireplace. It is essential to have a professional install the fireplace insert inside the opening of the current masonry fireplace.

Fireplace inserts come in many designs so that you can find a style to match your décor, including rustic, contemporary, traditional, and modern.

A New Fireplace Installation

Fireplaces are popular among homeowners everywhere, and the possibilities for installing fireplaces in your home are better than ever. You can have a wood or gas zero-clearance fireplace safely installed in your home virtually next to combustible materials such as wood, paneling, and sheetrock. Linear gas fireplaces offer an entire line of sleek products that can be perfect for any home, including minimalist modern.

When a new fireplace is installed, you can opt for a stand-alone model or one with a mantle, stonework, modern tile, and a hearth extension. You can choose the style that you desire. Because the fireplaces are zero-clearance appliances, you can enjoy a fireplace in your kitchen, bathroom, office, and bedrooms. To get the full benefits of zero-clearance fireplaces, turn off central heating and only use the fireplace in the room you’re in. This can help you safe a considerable amount of money on heating costs.

If you choose a wood-burning fireplace, you get the beloved ambiance that only real crackling wood and wood smoke can create. If you enjoy the convenience of gas, turning the heat on and off is as simple as adjusting a thermostat or using a remote control.

You don’t have to go with faux gas logs, though models available today can be very realistic, mimicking many different types of wood. A more modern look is achieved if you choose glass media. The colors available may include royal cobalt, ancient amber, brilliant ice, or others. Rocks are also a nice option, and they bring a favorite element of nature into the home.

Among the options for a gas fireplace is interior electric lighting, which can enhance the beauty of the flames. Depth and texture are also added when built-in recessed lighting illuminates the interior materials in a gas fireplace.

Contact the Experts at Northeastern Chimney

Every chimney technician at Northeastern Chimney is CSIA-certified. Each of our chimney sweeps has training and continuing education. If you are ready to have a fireplace insert installed for an upgrade or if you want a new fireplace installation, our technicians have the experience to do the job correctly. Call today at 860-233-5770 to schedule a chimney inspection, chimney cleaning, chimney repair, a fireplace insert installation, or to choose a new fireplace and have it professionally installed.

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

As solidly as chimneys are constructed, if regular care and maintenance are neglected, they easily can become hazardous. If you have a home with an active fireplace, here are a few tips on how to care for your chimney.

Chimney damage

You don’t have to be a licensed, certified chimney technician to know when your chimney isn’t in perfect shape. There are certain signs to watch for and then bring to the attention of a professional.

 

 

Crumbling bricks and mortar: These are signs that the chimney is suffering structural damage, often from water infiltration.

Dampness on walls and ceiling adjacent to the

Chimney: This isn’t necessarily a sign of chimney damage, but it could be. Have it checked out.

Water in the firebox: This sign means water is somehow getting into the chimney system. Left unattended, significant damage and dangerous operating conditions could result.

Chimney leaning to the side: A leaning chimney means there’s some kind of structural damage to the bricks and mortar. If you notice that your chimney is leaning, call a chimney repair technician immediately.

Strong, musty odors: Excess dampness in the flue can cause stronger-than usual odors when it mixes with soot and creosote. It’s important to know why the dampness exists, because it could be due to a leak within the system.

These are all common signs of chimney damage that should be addressed by a CSIA-certified chimney expert.

Annual chimney sweep

Wood-burning fireplaces add flammable creosote to the chimney flue every time a fire is burned. Because creosote can ignite and start a chimney fire, all fire-safety agencies in the U.S. recommend yearly chimney sweep services.

Some chimney fires are obvious; others are small and brief, often unnoticed by the homeowner. But

The sound of rumbling, similar to a distant train

An odd ticking or clicking sound

Excess amounts of dense smoke coming from either end of the chimney

An intense burning smell inside your home

If you notice any of these signs, call local emergency services and extinguish the fire in the fireplace, if possible.

Schedule annual chimney inspections

Chimneys that run year after year can become damaged to the point they’re no longer safe to operate. Water damage, structural damage and damage to the chimney’s various components all can create an unsafe chimney.

Fortunately, an annual chimney inspection can detect early signs of chimney damage and recommend the proper repair procedures before the problem becomes expensive and difficult to fix.

There are three recognized levels inspectors often increase their visibility with video technology that allows them to view still photos and live video of the chimney’s interior.Remember that chimney cleaning, chimney inspection and chimney repair should be performed only by experienced, licensed technicians who hold advanced industry certifications. While you as a homeowner can spot common signs of chimney damage, it’s not safe for you to attempt to repair it.

Fluesbrothers Chimney & Fireplace of Kansas City, KS, is here to help with all your chimney service needs. Our experts are CSIA-certified and have the tools and training to do the job right the first time. Call us today at (913) 236-7141.

The post Why It’s Dangerous to Neglect Chimney Maintenance appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.

A fully functional chimney is a safe chimney. A damaged chimney can be dangerous. Fortunately, you can spot many signs of chimney damage and arrange for the necessary repairs before the problem gets out of hand. Here are four areas of chimney damage/chimney issues to be on the lookout for.

Leaky chimney signs

Water in the firebox: If you see water inside your firebox, likely it means there’s a leak somewhere in the system.

 

White stains on masonry: White stains (efflorescence) are caused by naturally occurring salt and mean that water is getting into the masonry.

Foul smells coming from the fireplace: Excess moisture inside the flue often is caused by a leaky chimney. Moisture mixes with soot and creosote and produces strong odors.

Structural damage 

Crumbling on the roof: Masonry damage often leaves areas of crumbling on the roof near the base of the chimney.

Leaning chimney: If a chimney has begun to lean to one side, it indicates a significant level of damage that needs to be addressed before using the fireplace again.

Missing bricks: When bricks fall completely away from the chimney or parts of the bricks are missing, water damage is often the reason.

Black staining at the top of the chimney: This could be caused by the excess, thick smoke produced by a chimney fire.

Damage to chimney components

Damaged chimney cap: Any compromise to the vented areas of a chimney cap mean that unwanted obstructions could get into the flue and cause drafting issues.

Cracks in the chimney crown: Crown damage commonly begins with small cracks, which expand over time due to freeze-thaw cycles. Water inside the crown structure eventually can destroy it.

Flashing problems: The flashing that blocks the gap between the chimney and the roof should be flat and secure in order to keep water from running down into the home. Warped or deteriorated flashing needs to be replaced.

Chimney liner damage: If the chimney liner begins to break apart or degenerate, you may notice pieces of it in the firebox. You also may be able to visually see some parts of the liner to determine if damage is present.

Issues inside the flue

Aside from what’s listed above, two serious issues can take place inside the flue.

1. Excess creosote buildup: Creosote is formed when wood burns. The substance is flammable and responsible for most chimney fires in the U.S. each year.
2. Outside obstructions: Things such as small-animal nests, dead small animals, leaves, twigs and other debris can narrow the smoke passage and cause smoke and carbon monoxide to back up into the house. In both these cases, professional chimney sweep services are called for.

As a homeowner, you can keep a close eye on your chimney and its components and be able to tell when something is wrong. However, your “novice” inspections are no replacement for professional chimney inspections performed by certified technicians. If you watch your chimney and schedule annual inspections by a pro, you’ll be taking a big step toward keeping your chimney safe and running optimallyHigh’s Chimney Service of Gaithersburg, MD, provides everything you need for a safe chimney including certified chimney sweep, professional inspection and expert repair services. Call (301) 519-3500 with questions or to schedule an appointment.

 

 

The post Damaged Chimney Signs & Symptoms appeared first on Highs Chimney.

Winter can be a beautiful time of year. But it can also be a turbulent time for your fireplace and chimney. Years of exposure to the constant rain, sleet, and snow can damage even the most well-built chimneys. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prepare your fireplace, heating stove and chimney to weather the dangerous winter storms that may lie ahead.

Chimney Inspection

If you haven’t done so already, now is the time to get a chimney inspection. Hiring a chimney professional for a chimney inspection is vital to make sure your fireplace, heating stove, and chimney are ready for any dangerous winter storms that might occur during the season. The examination will reveal if any repairs need to be made, especially to vulnerable areas like the flashing and chimney crown, where water leaks commonly occur. If your chimney has spalling, leaking, rusting, a damaged crown, or other issues, a winter storm can worsen the problem leading to more extensive repairs after the storm. The inspector will also advise if you need chimney cleaning to remove any obstructions or excessive creosote.

Chimney Cleaning

It would be best if you also had a professional chimney sweep clean your chimney. The chimney sweep will remove the soot, ash, and creosote that has been accumulating in the chimney and fireplace. An accumulation of 1/8″ or more of creosote is a fire hazard and should be removed, according to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). The chimney sweep will also remove any leaves, pests, and other obstructions in the flue that could interfere with the venting of dangerous fumes. Also, high winds from winter storms can create a dangerous downdraft. The sudden gust of wind can push soot and ash through the fireplace and onto the flooring, furniture, and nearby objects. So, it’s a good idea to clean your chimney ahead of any winter storms.

Masonry Repairs & Waterproofing

Because of aging and years of exposure to snowy and rainy conditions, it is not uncommon for chimneys to have some signs of weather damage such as cracked or missing bricks and deteriorated mortar joints. This type of chimney damage should be repaired before approaching winter storms. It is a primary source of water leaks and left unrepaired will only continue to worsen. Severe masonry damage can even cause structural problems. Once masonry repairs are made, ask your chimney professional to apply a waterproof sealant. It will provide additional moisture protection during winter storms.

Replace Worn Damper

The chimney damper is supposed to form an airtight seal when closed. If it doesn’t close tightly, rain, snow, and debris will get inside the flue where it can cause water damage to interior masonry and rust internal components. It also helps prevent drafts and wasted energy when the fireplace is not lit. Replace worn or corroded dampers promptly.

Install a Chase Cover and Chimney Cap

The chimney crown is the uppermost portion of the chimney that bears the brunt of any winter storm. When cracks develop in the surface, water can leak into the interior walls of the stack. Installing a chase cover will protect the cement surface of the chimney crown and provide the chimney with additional moisture protection. A chimney cap should also be installed. A chimney cap is like an umbrella for the flue. It helps prevent moisture, pests, and debris from damaging or obstructing the flue while allowing smoke and exhaust to vent. Chimney caps should have a wire mesh screen that contains a spark arrestor to prevent flying embers from starting a fire on the roof.

The post How to Prepare Your Fireplace for Dangerous Winter Storms appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.