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National Fire Prevention Week

From October 5 to 11, the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) will celebrate National Fire Prevention Week. This has been annually observed for over 100 years. The first weekly celebration was in 1922. Officially proclaimed a national observance by President Calvin Coolidge in 1925. This celebration has continued yearly since that time. 

This year’s theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” NFPA is providing important education to everyone regarding the purchase, charging, and recycling of Lithium-Ion batteries. You can find educational materials on their website to help with a successful campaign. The focus is on preventing fires caused by these batteries. There are three steps that NFPA is focusing on this year. 

Annual Chimney sweep and inspection help prevent fires in South Windsor, CT.Charge into Fire Safety:

  • Buy products only from the manufacturer. When buying products that use Lithium-Ion batteries, look for those safety certification markings such as UL, ETL, or CSA. If you see these markings, you know that they meet important safety standards.
  • Safely charge your devices. Your product will usually come with cords. Always use the cords that came with your product. When new cords or chargers are needed, always purchase directly from the manufacturer or one that is approved by the manufacturer. Charge on a hard surface. Avoid charging on blankets or under pillows; allow air to flow around your device when charging. Don’t overcharge. When fully charged, remove from the charger. Don’t keep your charger on your device overnight.
  • Recycle batteries properly. Lithium-ion batteries should not go in the regular trash or recycling bins. Check with your local town as to where to dispose of Lithium-ion batteries. They can usually give you information on this. Visit call2recycling.org if your town doesn’t offer recycling options for Lithium-Ion batteries.

Community Involvement

Local fire departments and schools are participating in this year’s National Fire Prevention Week. Fire departments will hold open houses, educational seminars, and materials for kids and parents. Locations will display how to use a fire extinguisher. 

Schools will discuss the importance of knowing how to charge and recycle their Lithium-Ion batteries. Children will have the opportunity to print out color and activity pages to work on and learn. Schools can go to the website for additional school-age materials.

Community groups will hold educational sessions along with fire departments to bring all this information to different community groups.

promote safety and efficiency with regular fireplace care and inspections in Farmington, CTJoin the National Fire Prevention Association in this wonderful celebration of education. Help them by continuing this very beneficial program by making this year’s event a success.

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

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

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

Weathering New England: Why Your Home is Your Best Investment Right Now

Between rising costs and a potentially harsh New England winter on the horizon, many families are tightening their belts and looking for ways to make the most of what they have. From grocery bills that make you wince to heating costs that keep climbing, everything is getting more expensive! But here’s the silver lining that smart homeowners are discovering: your home isn’t just shelter – it’s your sanctuary, your biggest investment, and right now, your best refuge from an uncertain world. While you can’t control inflation or the weather forecast, you can absolutely control how safe, comfortable, and enjoyable your home becomes.

When Going Out Gets Expensive, Staying In Gets Precious

Let’s be honest – a family dinner out that used to cost $60 now easily runs $100 or more. Movie tickets, concerts, even a simple coffee shop visit all feel like major budget decisions these days. But what if we told you this economic shift could actually be a blessing in disguise for your family?

Across New England, families are rediscovering the lost art of truly enjoying their homes. That fireplace that maybe got used a few times last winter – it’s becoming the centerpiece of family game nights, romantic evenings, and cozy weekend mornings with coffee and a good book. A crackling fire provides something no expensive restaurant can offer – genuine warmth, both literally and figuratively, that brings families together.

Think about it: for the cost of one evening out, you can have your chimney professionally inspected and swept, ensuring dozens of memorable nights by the fire all winter long. Your living room transforms from just another room into your family’s favorite gathering spot. The kids put down their devices, couples reconnect by the fireplace, and grandparents have that perfect spot to read stories to little ones. When staying in becomes your new entertainment strategy, you want that experience to be impeccable.

Protect What Matters Most

In today’s economic climate, every financial decision feels magnified. That’s exactly why smart homeowners are shifting their thinking from reactive to proactive when it comes to home maintenance. Consider this sobering reality: while you’re worrying about your monthly budget, a small chimney problem that could be fixed today for a few hundred dollars could easily become a multi thousand-dollar nightmare by spring.

We’ve seen it countless times – families who skip their annual chimney maintenance to save money, only to face emergency repairs when water damage from winter storms compromises their chimney structure.

But here’s what’s encouraging: your home is likely one of the few stable investments you have right now. While your 401k fluctuates and gas prices swing wildly, maintaining your home’s value is something relatively within your control. Every dollar spent on proper maintenance doesn’t just prevent problems – it actively protects and often increases your home’s value. A well-maintained chimney and fireplace can add thousands to your home’s worth, while a damaged or unsafe one can be a major red flag for potential buyers if you ever decide to sell.

New England Weather Waits for No One

Living in New England means you’re no stranger to Mother Nature’s mood swings. One day it’s 70 degrees, the next you’re scraping ice off your windshield. But this year feels different, doesn’t it? Weather patterns seem more intense, storms more unpredictable, and temperature swings more dramatic. Your chimney and masonry work harder than ever to protect your home from these extremes.

Those beautiful brick chimneys that give New England homes their character. They’re taking a beating from freeze-thaw cycles that can crack mortar, shift bricks, and create pathways for water damage. Ice dams that form on roofs can back water up into chimney areas, causing damage that might not show up until months later. And those picturesque nor’easters we see in holiday movies? They’re driving wind and moisture into even the smallest chimney openings, creating conditions for structural problems.

The Smart Investment Strategy for Uncertain Times

Here’s what savvy New England homeowners are figuring out: in times of economic uncertainty, the best investment strategy isn’t complicated – it’s taking care of what you already own.

Professional chimney maintenance isn’t an expense – it’s an insurance policy that pays dividends in safety, comfort, and peace of mind. It’s the difference between confidently firing up your heat or fireplace on the first cold night and wondering if that strange smell means you have a problem. It’s the difference between enjoying your home as a warm refuge and constantly worrying about potential dangers lurking in systems you can’t see.

At Best Chimney, we’ve been serving New England families since 1989, through economic ups and downs, brutal winters, and everything in between. We understand that every dollar counts right now, and that’s exactly why we’re so passionate about helping you make smart decisions about your home. Because when times are tough, when the weather gets harsh, and when the world feels uncertain, there’s nothing more valuable than a warm, safe, secure place to call home – a place where your family can thrive no matter what’s happening outside your door.

Let us help you turn your house into the sanctuary your family deserves

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3 Ways to Keep the Cold Air from Coming in from the Chimney

Welcome to September where you’re not sure if you should wear a jacket or a pair of shorts. The seasons are beginning to transition and the warm Fall breeze will soon lose its strength and submit to cooler weather. Simply take sitting on the couch, near the fireplace. Regardless if its wood burning or gas, cool air makes its way down the chimney and into the fireplace, which ultimately comes into the home. It gives you that chilly feeling and you start to wonder why is cold air coming from the chimney. Let’s take a closer look.

Cold Air Coming from the Chimney

Cold air coming from the chimney can be an unpleasant experience, especially when it’s right after the summer heat. We’re just never ready to go back to the cold. But when that cold breeze hits, the first thing you wonder is ‘where is the cold air coming from. The chimney?” It can be something quite simple to fix, or it can be something more.

1. Chimney Damper

    Did you forget to close the chimney damper? This first needs to be addressed as it is the most common issue. So, check that first! If you forgot to close the chimney damper, your problem may be solved. But if you still feel a cold breeze…

    Call Superior Chimney at 877-244-6349. We’ll check the condition of the chimney damper. Sometimes the chimney damper can be stuck or no longer sealing properly. If the chimney damper needs to be replaced, our chimney technicians will show you pictures of the chimney damper, confirm the issue and recommend a solution.

    2. Chimney Cap

    Another reason for cold air coming in the chimney is either a missing chimney cap or a damaged chimney cap. As we know, when a chimney cap has problems, everything suffers. The chimney cap does the job of protecting the chimney opening or the flue from downdrafts. If you stand outside and look up at the chimney, make sure there is a chimney cap. If the chimney cap is not on straight, then it may need to be repaired or replaced. If the chimney cap is non-existent, then a new chimney cap needs to be installed.

    3. Chimney Flue Liner

    A chimney flue liner is a great way to control backdrafts, or reduce / eliminate cold air coming into your home. Some homes still have clay tiles. Although it helped back in the day, clay tiles do deteriorate over time. If you don’t have a chimney flue liner, it is best to get one. Here’s a quick list of benefits to a chimney flue liner:

    • Defines a clear path for smoke and gases to exit the home
    • Ensures proper draft when properly sized
    • Keeps the gases existing the home warmer so they quickly exit the home reducing the amount of creosote and moisture from the home
    • Reduce carbon monoxide risk
    • Prevent fire hazards!

    Now that you know the 3 Ways you can control the cold air coming into your home, have a chimney technician come check it out to ensure you’ll have a warm and safe Fall and Winter season. Contact us today at 877-244-6349 to schedule your appointment.

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

    I Have a Gas Fireplace, There’s No Need to Sweep It.

    Many young homeowners either have been told or believe that since I have a gas fireplace, there’s no need to sweep it. That is a false. Plain and simple. There are many ways you can hurt yourself, family and home by not following the recommendation of the National Fire Protection Association and the Chimney Safety Institute of America. What do they say? Whether you use or never use a wood burning or gas fireplace, it must be swept once per year. Why? Let’s discover the risk factors together.

    Risk #1 Blockages and Poor Ventilation

    It may seem like there’s nothing going on in the fireplace, but there’s a lot of activity that you won’t see. The volatility of wind in Chicago is undeniable. This causes leaves and debris to fly around landing in the chimney. Next, with Fall upon us, raccoons squirrels birds bats and other critters are finding a warmer place to camp for the Winter, and your chimney looks pretty good. Blocked by the wind and cold, the fireplace is a good place to sleep for the season.

    Not only are these blockages dangerous, but carbon monoxide (CO) can back up into your home instead to going up the chimney and outside of your home.

    Risk #2 Carbon Monoxide

    Did you know that gas fireplaces produce carbon monoxide? Without a clean and clear vent, carbon monoxide continues to build up inside of your home. What are the side effects? This can lead to dizziness, headaches and feeling sick to the stomach. This can be a serious problem if not caught in time.

    Risk #3 Damages!

    If the fireplace and chimney goes for extended periods of time without servicing, moisture can build up inside of the chimney causing damage and a big repair job. But let’s not forget that without good ventilation, the airflow again gets restricted. Now you’ll be stuck with your gas fireplace shutting down or even overheating.

    Risk #4 Potential for Fire

    Most times when you purchase a home, someone else lived in it. We don’t ask their habits, we just hope everything works. Before you start that fireplace, do you know if it was used? Do you know if it was a wood burning or gas fireplace? Was it always used in that way? If you don’t know the answers to these questions, it’s time for a fireplace sweep & inspection.

    Here are some warning signs that you have a potential problem:

    • The smell of gas
    • A hint of burning smells
    • Moisture on the glass fireplace doors
    • Smoky smell
    • Headaches, dizziness
    • Carbon Monoxide detector goes off
    • The discovery of debris
    • Efflorescence or white color staining
    • Having trouble keeping the fireplace lit
    • Sooting or irregular flames

    Contact Superior Chimney today at 877-244-6349. So, when you hear someone say, I have a gas fireplace, no need to sweep it, you now know what you need to tell them.

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

    Top 7 Reasons To Choose Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep for Chimney Sweeping in Cambridge, MA

    At Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep, we’ve been helping Cambridge homeowners for years with detailed chimney sweeping services that go far beyond a quick brush. Whether you live in a historic brownstone near Harvard Square, a condo by the Charles River, or a family home in North Cambridge, we know the unique challenges that come with maintaining chimneys in New England’s climate.

    Here are the top 7 reasons locals turn to us for their chimney sweeping needs:

    1. We Focus on Detailed, Thorough Cleanings

    A sweep is only as good as the detail put into it. We don’t just remove the surface soot – we target creosote buildup at every stage, from flaky deposits to hardened, tar-like layers. This helps your system operate more smoothly and lowers your risk of chimney fires.

    2. Our Team Is CSIA-Certified

    Cambridge homeowners deserve peace of mind. That’s why our technicians are trained and certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). With us, you’re getting service backed by national standards and best practices.

    3. We Use Modern Tools & Techniques

    Gone are the days of messy, dust-filled sweeps. We use HEPA-filtered vacuums and professional-grade equipment designed to minimize disruption inside your home. That way, your chimney gets a deep clean…without leaving soot behind in your living room.

    4. We Have Local Knowledge of Cambridge Homes

    From historic properties in Mid-Cambridge to newer builds around Fresh Pond, our team understands the wide range of chimney systems found here. Older masonry chimneys often need extra attention due to age and mortar wear, while newer prefab systems require specialized handling.

    5. We Spot Problems Before They Grow

    A big part of sweeping is doing a thorough inspection. As we clear debris, we also keep an eye out for early signs of trouble: cracks in the flue, loose mortar, animal nests, or water intrusion. Spotting these issues early can save you from costly repairs later.

    6. We Focus on Seasonal Preparation for Harsh New England Winters

    We know Cambridge winters are long and cold. A clean chimney not only improves safety but also makes your fireplace or stove run more efficiently when you need it most. Our sweeps help ensure your system is ready before the deep freeze sets in.

    7. We’re Trusted by Your Neighbors

    Our reputation is built on consistency and care. Many of our Cambridge clients have been with us for years, relying on us season after season to keep their homes comfortable and their fireplaces enjoyable.

    Keep Your Home Safer & Cozier With a Professional Chimney Sweeping With Us

    Don’t wait until smoke backs up into your home or odors creep in from your chimney. For chimney sweeping near you, trust Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep. We give you confidence that your system is clean, clear, and ready to enjoy all season long.

    Call us today to schedule your chimney sweep in Cambridge, MA and see why your neighbors already trust us with their fireplaces.

    The post Top 7 Reasons To Choose Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep for Chimney Sweeping in Cambridge, MA appeared first on Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep.

    Benefits of a Chimney Cap

    Fireplaces are still popular heating sources for many homeowners. While they may not be as efficient as a furnace or heat pump, they deliver a charm and atmosphere that you can’t get with any other system. There’s a lot to think about when owning a fireplace, but one thing that often gets overlooked is the chimney cap. Chimney caps are one of those little features that play a huge considerable role in protecting your chimney and your home.

    Let’s break down what this device does, why it’s so important, and how to know if yours needs to be repaired or replaced.

    Benefits of a Chimney Cap

    Professional & reliable chimney cap installs, inspections & repairs services in New Britain CTKeeps Out Rain and Snow

    Without a cap, your chimney is basically a wide-open hole on the roof. Rain and snow can drip straight down into your flue, soaking the masonry or even causing water damage inside your home. Over time, that moisture leads to cracking, rust, and mold. A cap acts like an umbrella, keeping the weather where it belongs—outside.

    Stops Animals From Moving In

    Birds, squirrels, raccoons, you name it, love the idea of building a nest in your nice, warm chimney. The problem? Those nests block airflow, create fire hazards, and sometimes trap animals themselves. A properly installed cap with a screen keeps the critters out while allowing smoke to escape.

    Prevents Downdrafts

    Ever had smoke blow back into your living room on a windy day? That’s a downdraft, and it’s no fun. A chimney cap helps block strong gusts from pushing air and smoke down your flue, keeping your fire burning cleanly and your living room smelling like a home instead of a campfire.

    Protects Against Sparks and Embers

    A cap with a spark guard keeps little embers from flying out of your chimney and landing on your roof or yard. That’s a huge safety boost, especially in dry conditions.

    Increases Chimney Lifespan

    By keeping out moisture, animals, and debris, a cap reduces wear and tear on your chimney’s structure. Think of it as inexpensive insurance that saves you from major repairs down the line.

    Signs Your Chimney Cap Needs Replacing

    Just like anything else exposed to the elements, chimney caps don’t last forever. Here are the most common signs that your chimney cap has overstayed its welcome.

    Visible Rust or Corrosion

    If your cap is made of metal, rust is usually the first sign it’s breaking down. Once corrosion starts, it spreads quickly and can leave holes that defeat the purpose of having a cap in the first place.

    Bent or Broken Mesh

    The wire screen is what keeps critters and debris out. If it’s bent, torn, or missing sections, animals will find a way in, and sparks may sneak out.

    Loose or Missing Cap

    High winds, storms, or even age can loosen the screws holding your cap in place. If you notice it looks tilted, rattles in the wind, or worse, has disappeared, it’s time to call a chimney professional.

    Water or Debris in the Fireplace

    If you see leaves, twigs, or puddles of water in the firebox, chances are your cap isn’t doing its job. That’s a clear sign that it’s damaged or gone.

    A damaged chimney cap defeats its purpose, like an umbrella, it keeps weather and animals out in South Windsor, CT.

    Strange Noises

    Hear scratching or chirping from your chimney? That often means your cap’s screen is damaged, and some furry (or feathery) squatters have moved in.

    A chimney cap is one of those small, inexpensive features that saves you a ton of trouble and money in the long run. Replacing a cap costs far less than repairing water damage, removing animal nests, or fixing a smoke-stained living room. Plus, it gives you peace of mind knowing your fireplace system is working safely and efficiently.

    Call Northeastern Chimney, Inc. today to schedule a professional chimney and cap inspection. We’re the number one choice for chimney and fireplace services across central Connecticut.

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

    What Is A Leaky Chimney?

    Let’s face it. Water is likely to enter your chimney. It comes in from the top; whether it is from rain or melting snow, it will find its way in. Our chimneys take a beating. The winters can be brutal with gusting winds, snow, and sleet. 

    Quality Chimney Flashing Repair in Avon, CT

    What Are The Causes of a Leaky Chimney?

    • Cracked chimney crown. With age, the chimney crown can crack. The crown is made out of cement and is susceptible to cracks. 
    • No Chimney cap. Without a chimney cap, water can drip into your chimney. Sometimes at large amounts. 
    • Masonry and mortar deterioration. Over time, without proper sealant, masonry will deteriorate, causing cracks and spalling. Rain and snow seep into the cracks. During the winter, the freeze-thaw concept happens, causing cracks to increase. Those cracks let more water in.
    • Wood siding. If your home has a wood chase with wood siding, knots in the wood, and cracks in the wood, it allows water to get in, causing leaks.  
    • Leaking Flashing. Improperly installed or damaged chimney flashing will allow water to get in.

    The summers are just as bad, with the summer heat and the occasional summer storm. Hurricanes can whip up quite a disaster.  

    A leaky chimney is a different story. If your chimney crown has cracks, you do not have a chimney cap, or flashing is not installed correctly, water will get in and cause damage. These are the things that you can control. 

    How will I know if I have A Leaky Chimney?

    Here is what to look for.

    • Water in the firebox. You should not have puddles of water in your firebox. 
    • Discoloration on the exterior of your chimney. This is called efflorescence. It’s a white, chalky deposit that is derived from the salt in the bricks.
    • A smell of mold and mildew. This musty smell is coming from water that has leaked into the chimney. It hasn’t had a chance to dry out, and mold has started to grow.
    • You can see water damage on the ceiling or the walls near the chimney.

    What Should I Do To Prevent a Leaky Chimney?

    Along with your annual chimney sweep and inspection, consider applying a water sealant to your chimney. Our team at Northeastern Chimney is professionally trained to apply a quality sealant. Keeping up with the maintenance of your chimney is your best defense. 

    Here is what you can do. 

    • Water sealant.
    • Annual Inspection.
    • Annual Chimney Sweep.
    • Watch for signs of water damage as noted above.

    Trusted chimney inspections in Bloomfield, CT

    Scheduling with Northeastern Chimney is easy and quick. Let us help you manage the details of keeping your chimney dry and preventing damage. 

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

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

    The post What Is A Leaky Chimney? appeared first on .

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

    Do All Types of Chimney’s and Fireplaces Need to Be Swept?

    September 21st is the first day of Fall. I know we don’t want to think about it yet, but it is good to prepare and get the chimney swept early. Why? According to the Farmer’s Almanac, they are predicting a colder and snowier Winter. But you say, “eh, I got a gas fireplace.” Better yet, “I don’t use my fireplace, so why should I sweep it, and clean it early?” Let’s discuss why all types of chimneys and fireplaces need to be swept.

    Why Do All Types of Chimney’s and Fireplaces Need to Be Swept?

    When we think of the fireplace, we picture the real wood burning fireplace with the sounds of crackling wood. With regular use of the wood-burning fireplaces, a byproduct called creosote forms and over time, lines the side of the chimney flue. This needs to be swept at least once per year as creosote is flammable. However, all chimney’s, regardless of whether it burns wood or utilizes gas, needs to be professionally inspected and swept annually.

    Many homeowners mistakenly believe that a gas or unused chimney is immune to problems since it doesn’t produce a byproduct. However, these chimney systems face their own unique dangers. Gas fireplaces, especially those that are high-efficiency, can lead to the buildup of corrosive deposits. Over time, these deposits can degrade your chimney liner. Getting it inspected by a certified chimney technician will control this issue so it doesn’t turn into a problem.

    4 Key Reasons to Prioritize Your Annual Chimney Inspection

    The annual chimney inspection is more than just a sweep; it’s a comprehensive health check for your entire chimney system. We call it the 14 Point Inspection. A certified chimney technician will look for:

    1. Fire Hazards: Again, for wood-burning chimneys, the removal of creosote is important to prevent a chimney fire. Gas fireplaces release corrosive deposits. If you don’t use the fireplace, you never know what debris may have settled in. If you want to use the fireplace, please be sure to have it professionally inspected and swept before use.
    2. Obstructions: There’s a whole world outside of your home, and especially in the Fall, our little friends are searching for a warm place to stay. Your chimney looks pretty good. And, let’s not forget how the wind in the Chicagoland are does a great job of moving debris around that can get up and under the chimney cap or directly into the chimney if you don’t have a cap. These blockages need to be cleared for you and your home’s protection.
    3. Structural Damage: A chimney technician will be able to spot cracks, water damage, or deterioration of the chimney and chimney liner that could compromise the system’s safety.
    4. Ventilation Issues: Ventilation is key for your home to breathe. The certified chimney technician will ensure proper draft and airflow, which is the best way to get rid of toxic gases.

    NFPA

    Remember, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends an annual inspection for all chimney types. This simple, proactive maintenance can save you from costly repairs. Don’t wait for a problem to become obvious. Contact Superior Chimney today at 877-244-6349 to schedule a 14-Point Chimney inspection to ensure your home and family are protected.

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

    The 2025 Fall Guide to Capping Your Chimney

    As Fall of 2025 comes upon us, everything begins to change and prepare for the cold months ahead. The first signs of Fall are when the kids go back to school. Done. Next, both college and pro-football games begins. Done. The temperatures begin to fluctuate and decline. Done. The chimney needs to be checked and swept prior to using the chimney. Not done. And the chimney cap needs to be secure to ensure protection. Not done. Here is your 2025 Fall guide to capping your chimney.

    2025 Fall Guide to Capping Your Chimney

    As we begin to go through the Fall Guide to Capping Your Chimney, let’s first understand what a chimney cap is. A chimney cap is a cover that sits on top of the chimney opening, and many times it is tightly secured to the chimney flue or the slab of concrete that overhangs the chimney bricks, stone or siding. The chimney cap serves several important purposes. Every chimney needs a cap for the same reasons every home needs a roof!… Let’s take a look at the Guide to understand its importance.

    Keep the Rain and Snow Out: Homes without a chimney cap experience deterioration and damage inside and outside quickly. The chimney cap acts as an umbrella, or a protectant to the chimney opening. By keeping the rain and snow out of the home, you’re not allowing water to fall into the interior of the home causing smells, and water damage to the ceiling and walls.

    Adorable Little Creatures: Those adorable little creatures that scurry on our roof need to find a nice warm home for the Fall. That’s where you come in if you don’t have a chimney cap. Critters are searching for a safe, warm place to stay and your chimney is perfect…as long as you don’t use it. But the ugly truth is that they may/will have difficulty getting out of the chimney. Many remain and over time, you’ll know it by the foul smell of the critter. The chimney cap’s mesh along the sides prevents the critters from making their way inside the chimney.

    Spark Deflector: Anytime there is a fire in the fireplace, sparks fly. What we need to be sure happens is that the sparks remain confined. Sparks can travel up your chimney and will attempt to make their way out of the home. If there is a chimney cap, the sparks will be stopped by the mesh and spark arrestor of the chimney cap. This is important because the sparks can land on the roof, pile of leaves or your neighbors house and cause a fire. Keeping sparks contained is vital to safety.

    Downdrafts are Contained: We live in the Chicagoland area where wind can be an issue. Wind on the top of the roof can create a downdraft which can cause the smoke from the fire in the fireplace to back up into the home instead of going up the chimney and out of the home. The chimney cap can also prevent those cold drafts of air from going down the chimney and into your home.

    Choose Basic to Decorative: Now for the fun part. There are numerous style chimney caps on the market today. You can choose from fancy designs made of steel, copper or clay. Whichever matches your home best, that’ll be your winner! Give Superior Chimney a call to sweep and inspect your chimney. During the 14-point inspection, we’ll be checking on the chimney cap. All inspections are documented along with pictures so you can see what’s going on up there!

    Contact us today to get started at 877-244-6349.

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

    Issues Humidity Brings To Your Chimney

    We experience extreme weather living in the Northeast, from sweltering heat in the summer to cold and bitter in the winter. This has been an extremely hot and humid summer. Humid weather brings moisture into the air, which is not beneficial to your chimney. Humidity is the concentration of water vapor that is present in the air. You may not see the water, but you can sure feel it when the humidity hits high levels. 

    You may experience an odor when the summer comes around and the days and evenings are humid. That moisture is getting into your chimney and creating mold spores.  Mold and mildew start to grow.  This adds to the smells that you are experiencing in the summer. During the course of the burning season, creosote builds up in the chimney and flue. 

    Professional & reliable chimney cap installs, inspections & repairs services in New Britain CT

    What To Do?

    • Regular Chimney Sweeps. Professional chimney experts suggest getting a cleaning or chimney sweep once a year. This will keep the smells at bay. Cleaning out the chimney of creosote, debris, small critters, and leaves will help prevent mold and mildew from growing.
    • Chimney Cap. Check your chimney cap. A cap will help keep moisture out of the chimney. Keeping your chimney dry will deter any growth, especially on the hot, humid days. 
    • Chimney Crown. The crown also plays a big part in keeping the chimney free from water. If the chimney crown is cracked, water will seep in. Once there is humidity in the air, mold and mildew will grow, causing smells to filter into your home.
    • Install a Damper. Airflow is essential when you are burning a fire in your fireplace. It also keeps smells from getting into your home when not in use. 
    • Use an air purifier. An air purifier can be beneficial in keeping your home free from humidity.
    • Annual Chimney Inspections. You may not be aware of hairline cracks in the cap and crown, or if the flashing is letting water into your chimney. An annual chimney inspection by a reputable chimney company, such as Northeastern Chimney, will let you know if there are any issues that need to be addressed. 

    When moisture from humidity combines with the creosote, odors are dispersed into the air.  So if you are smelling mold or see water in your firebox, it would be a good time to have our experts take a look at it. Rainy days will aggravate the smell as well.

    Schedule your inspection or cleaning soon by calling Northeastern Chimney. We service all of Hartford, Tolland, and Litchfield Counties.

    Reliable Annual Chimney sweep and inspection by experienced pros in Windsor Locks CT

    All our chimney technicians are trained and qualified. We are active in the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG). Our professional team is trained and qualified in everything chimneys.

    Professionals suggest that an annual Chimney sweep and inspection be conducted.

    When a problem arises, the best plan is to tackle it as soon as possible. This will cost you much less than if you let the damage to the fireplace and bricks go on too long.

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    (877) 959-3534