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Safeguard the Chimney from Water Damage: A Homeowner’s Guide

If you’ve ever noticed stains or pieces of brick or stone around your chimney after the changing seasons? You’re not alone. Furthermore, did you know that water damage is one of the most common and costly chimney problems reported by homeowners? There is a way to safeguard the chimney from water damage.

Safeguard the Chimney from Water Damage

Water has a sneaky way of finding its path inside the home by seeping through mortar cracks, flashing that has come away from the chimney or roof, or even the chimney cap, especially if it’s loose.

Rain or Melting Snow: When it rains or snows, it hardly ever goes straight down. It usually has wind to accompany its travels. This means rain can look like it’s going sidewise and chances are, it’s beating on all four sides of the chimney searching out the smallest cracks or weak spot to make its way in. As a homeowner, get the chimney inspected once per year to ensure any cracks in the mortar or even the chimney crown are found and repaired.

Once repaired, the best next step is to get the chimney bricks, mortar and chimney crown waterproofed with Chimney Saver. This seals the porous materials and keeps it from deteriorating prematurely. The waterproofing solution lasts for as long as 10 years.

Chimney Cap: The chimney cap has multiple uses for the chimney. The chimney cap keeps the water, snow and any debris from entering the chimney. And in the Fall season, little critters are searching for a warm place to stay to weather the snowy and cold winter. It’s best to keep them out of the chimney and harm’s way.

As a homeowner, this needs to be checked annually as well. It will not be a good thing if the chimney cap is loose. Getting it checked to ensure it can stand up to animals, wind and other factors in order to keep your chimney protected.

Snow and Ice: Snow and ice can wreak havoc on your chimney. The chimney will be under more stress if the buildup of snow and ice persists in the winter. It will push the chimney and flashing to the brink as it will constantly be testing the chimney’s endurance.

What are the Signs of Water Damage?

Water Stains: Look for water stains inside of the home. Water can travel a good distance, so be sure to check all of your rooms, both the ceiling and walls.

Mold and Mildew: If you find mold or mildew around the exterior chimney, then you know you have had moisture build up for a long time. This problem has been long neglected.

Large and Small Cracks: Small and large cracks in the mortar or even in the chimney flue can mean bigger problems. Homeowners can’t always get to the flue and know what to look for. This is where a certified chimney technician can be of help. Be sure to contact us for the expertise needed to identify any issues.

Prevent Water Damage

Most of what we discussed with a yearly inspection will prevent water damage and other potential issues as well. We’ll go through our 14-point inspection and share our findings with you via photos taken on your roof. Remember, it’s not so easy getting up on a roof to the chimney. That’s why we’re here to help, and show you what exactly is going on.

Getting an annual inspection will keep your home safe from damages. Contact us today 877-244-6349 to schedule your sweep, check and inspection to ensure a safe winter season.

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

How Long Does Chimney Tuckpointing Last?

Numerous homes are made from a combination of brick and mortar. If it wasn’t good, or wouldn’t last, construction companies wouldn’t use it, right? In perfect conditions, brick and mortar will last anywhere from 25 to 30 years. Therefore, it makes sense that they chimney, which is attached to the top of the house would have the same type of lifespan. If everything had perfect conditions…sure. But living in the Chicagoland area, there are no perfect conditions. So how long does chimney tuckpointing last?

How Long Does Chimney Tuckpointing Last?

Now that we’re talking chimney tuckpointing, the longevity depends on various factors. Chimneys are under a ton of strain such as weather elements, temperatures that constantly change (remember the freeze thaw cycle) and the heat that comes up from the fires made in your fireplace. Now add on how well you or the previous owner maintained the chimney. Chimney tuckpointing will last 50% LESS than the perfect conditions.

Weather Conditions

Chimneys are exposed to the weather elements of wind, snow, heat, rain. But let’s not forget how they also get hit with hail and branches. Because there are no protections, nothing to shield the chimney from the elements, unlike the sides of a home, the continuous exposure to the weather conditions wears down the mortar in the chimney much faster.

You may recall, we discussed in detail the freeze thaw cycle. When water gets in between the stone or brick and the mortar, it expands and freezes causing cracks to form or if there is one, cracks to grow longer and/or wider. When this process is repeated, and it will here in Chicago, the mortar joints begin to weaken. That’s why you need to have the chimney inspected. Chimney repairs are needed and necessary so large repair bills, like partial chimney rebuilds or full chimney rebuilds are avoided.

Visually Check the Chimney

If you have not had a chimney inspection because you don’t use the fireplace, or have a gas fireplace, it is critical to have the chimney inspected by a certified chimney professional. Just because you don’t use it doesn’t mean it’s not doing its thing outside. You still have appliances that use the chimney to extract the toxins. Whether you like it or not, the weather elements are still going to happen. So here are a few things to visually check.

  1. Is there any missing mortar? Are there gaps or spaces in between the bricks or stones?
  2. If you can get close to the chimney, can you find any loose mortar? Have any of the bricks shifted from their original placement?
  3. Have you found any interior stains on the ceiling or walls? These will indicate there’s a water leak in the home. Or have you heard any dripping sounds coming from the fireplace?
  4. This is an easy one. Have you seen any white powder type substance on the bricks or stones outside of the chimney? This is called efflorescence. This means that there is moisture coming into the bricks or stones and when it evaporates, it leaves behind this white substance.

What’s Next?

Now that you know how long chimney tuckpointing lasts, you still have some time left before chimney tuckpointing season comes to a close. With the farmer’s almanac calling for more snow this winter, do you want to take that chance of leaks in the home? Get it checked so you have piece of mind this winter. Call today for a 14-point inspection with a certified chimney technician today at 877-244-6349. 

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

Who Should I Call for a Chimney Inspection in Somerville, MA?

When was the last time your chimney had a full inspection – not just a quick sweep, but a complete safety check from top to bottom? Here in Somerville, homes come in all shapes and ages, from 19th-century row houses to modern renovations. Each one tells a story through its brickwork, but age, weather, and everyday use can quietly wear down even the best-built chimneys. That’s why homeowners across Greater Boston trust Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep for detailed, honest chimney inspections that catch small issues before they turn into expensive repairs.

What Makes Regular Chimney Inspections So Important in Somerville?

Somerville weather swings from humid summers to freezing winters, and those freeze/thaw cycles can wreak havoc on mortar joints. Even minor cracks can spread fast once moisture seeps in. An annual inspection helps make sure your chimney is standing as strong as it looks.

During an inspection, our certified technicians check:

  • Masonry and mortar joints for cracks, loose bricks, and early signs of spalling.
  • Flue liners for hidden gaps or damage that could allow carbon monoxide leaks.
  • Crown and flashing for leaks that often show up after heavy snow or rain.
  • Smoke chamber and damper for buildup, corrosion, or improper function.

We use advanced video scanning tools to see what the naked eye can’t, because even microscopic cracks can lead to major safety issues down the road.

original infographic with a dark blue and gray color scheme and bold white text at the top reading “What Makes Regular Chimney Inspections So Important in Somerville?” The layout is divided into four illustrated sections. The top left box has a red background with an icon of a brick wall and magnifying glass showing a crack, labeled “To check masonry and mortar joints for cracks.” The top right shows a gray flue pipe with the caption “To examine flue liners for hidden gaps or damage.” The bottom left displays a chimney with water drops beneath it on a light gray background, labeled “To inspect crowns and flashing for leaks.” The bottom right has a gray box with a chimney emitting three red wavy lines representing heat, captioned “To check the smoke chamber and damper for buildup.”<br />

How Do Massachusetts Winters Affect Chimney Health?

That constant cycle of freezing and thawing can loosen mortar joints in just one or two seasons. Once moisture freezes inside those small cracks, it expands and pushes the bricks apart. Before you know it, that beautiful red-brick chimney starts leaning or shedding flakes. Here’s what we often see around Somerville:

  • Crumbling crowns that let water in at the top of the chimney.
  • White efflorescence stains showing trapped moisture inside the bricks.
  • Leaning chimneys due to shifting foundations or prolonged neglect.
  • Accelerated decay from road salt and urban air pollutants.

A proper inspection every year keeps these problems manageable and can often save homeowners from full rebuilds.

What Happens If You Skip a Chimney Inspection for a Season or Two?

We get it! Life gets busy. But even missing a single inspection can allow enough soot or creosote to accumulate to trigger a chimney fire the next winter. In older homes, unseen liner cracks or weakened masonry can let flames or fumes escape where they shouldn’t.

Common risks of skipped inspections include:

  • Rapid creosote buildup, especially in wood-burning fireplaces.
  • Hidden flue blockages from nesting animals or fallen debris.
  • Drafting issues that push smoke back into your living space.
  • Water leaks that damage both chimney and ceiling over time.

A quick visit from Billy Sweet’s team gives you peace of mind before heating season kicks in.

How Do Chimneys Hold Up During Coastal Storms or High Winds?

Somerville might not sit directly on the ocean, but strong nor’easters still bring high winds and sideways rain. Those gusts can loosen chimney caps, dislodge flashing, or even shift masonry over time. After any major storm, it’s smart to schedule a Level 2 inspection to check for:

  • Dislodged caps or covers that leave flues exposed.
  • Cracked crowns from flying debris or falling branches.
  • Water penetration that can start inside the attic long before you notice it.

Even a small leak can travel far, and catching it early keeps both your chimney and roofline intact.

Why Choose Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep for Your Somerville Home?

We’ve been serving Somerville and the greater Boston area for decades, and we know the unique challenges of local architecture, from historic triple-deckers to renovated townhomes. Our approach combines old-school craftsmanship with today’s inspection technology.

Homeowners call us because we:

  • Offer three levels of inspection (per NFPA 211 standards) to match your needs.
  • Provide clear, photo-documented reports after every visit.
  • Focus on preventive maintenance, not upselling unnecessary work.
  • Are fully certified and insured, so you know your home’s in professional hands.

Ready to Schedule Your Fireplace Inspection?

Before the next cold front hits or the holidays roll in, make sure your fireplace and chimney are ready for another New England winter. A professional inspection from Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep keeps your home safer, your system efficient, and your mind at ease.

Whether you’ve just moved into a Somerville classic or you’re maintaining a long-loved family home, we’re here to make sure your chimney continues to do its job beautifully for years to come.

Call Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep today to schedule your Somerville chimney inspection, well before the next fire season arrives.

The post Who Should I Call for a Chimney Inspection in Somerville, MA? appeared first on Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep.

Top 5 Myths About Chimney Waterproofing

While most homeowners think about protecting their homes from water damage, the roof, gutters, and foundation are usually at the top of their list. However, one area that is often overlooked is the chimney. It’s assumed that because the chimney is made of bricks or stones, it’s naturally durable and waterproof, but that’s not the case, and it’s one of the most common (and costly) myths in home maintenance.

Here we debunk some of the biggest myths about chimney waterproofing and tell you why it’s one of the smartest and most cost-effective preventive steps you can take to protect your home.

Professional waterproofing prevents moisture from entering without sealing in condensation in Farmington, CTMyth 1: Brick and Mortar Don’t Let Water In

This is the big one, the most common myth about bricks and mortar is that they’re impervious to water. After all, they’re strong and heavy, so how could moisture possibly get in? Simple. Masonry materials are porous by nature.

Brick and mortar absorb water like a sponge, especially when exposed to rain, snow, and the freeze-thaw cycle year after year. Over time, that moisture seeps deeper into the structure, leading to problems like:

  • Efflorescence, a white, powdery salt deposit.
  • Crumbling mortar joints.
  • Spalling bricks.
  • Mold and mildew growth inside the chimney.

Even a tiny amount of trapped moisture can wreak havoc in the chimney and lead to costly repairs as it breaks the mortar away from the inside out. Waterproofing the chimney helps seal the pores and prevents water from entering in the first place.

Myth 2: A Chimney Cap is Enough Protection

Chimney caps are essential for keeping rain, debris, and animals from getting in. But they’re not a complete waterproofing solution. Caps do shield the top of the flue, but they don’t protect the exterior masonry or the mortar between the bricks.

Think of the cap as an umbrella. It blocks direct rain from entering but doesn’t stop moisture from soaking into the chimney’s sides during heavy storms and driving winds, or when snow piles up against it. For maximum protection, you need a breathable waterproofing product applied to the structure, not just a metal cover at the top.

Myth 3: Waterproofing Traps Moisture

You’d be surprised by how many homeowners don’t want to waterproof their chimneys because they think water will get trapped inside and make things worse. That can happen if the wrong kind of product is used.

A proper chimney waterproofing treatment uses a vapor-permeable sealant. This means it repels liquid water from the outside while allowing water vapor from inside the chimney to escape. Think of it like a breathable raincoat. It prevents moisture from entering without sealing in condensation.

Using the wrong kind of coating, such as paint or non-breathable sealer, can indeed lock in moisture and accelerate deterioration. That’s why chimney waterproofing should always be done by a trained professional who uses products designed explicitly for masonry chimneys.

Myth 4: Waterproofing is Only for Damaged or Old Chimneys

Another common belief is that only older chimneys need waterproofing. In reality, every chimney, regardless of how old it is, can benefit from water protection.

New chimneys are just as vulnerable to water absorption as older ones, and sometimes even more because modern mortar can be softer and more porous than older mixtures. Waterproofing is a preventive measure that can significantly extend your chimney’s lifespan.

Myth 5: Waterproofing Isn’t Worth the Cost

Many homeowners believe that waterproofing is an unnecessary expense or a marketing ploy by chimney companies to increase profits. But, compared to the cost of major chimney repairs, it’s one of the most affordable things you can do.

Every chimney, regardless of how old it is, can benefit from water protection in Avon, CT

Repairing water-damaged brickwork, rebuilding a chimney crown, or addressing leaks that spread to your interior walls can cost thousands of dollars. And if you develop mold as a result? That’s another costly headache. Modern waterproofing is relatively expensive and typically lasts up to 10 years before you need to reapply.

Stop Moisture and Save Your Chimney!

Contact Northeastern Chimney today to ask about our chimney waterproofing or other chimney services. We proudly service customers throughout Central CT, and all of Hartford, Tolland, and Litchfield Counties.

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

Fall Fireplace Tips & Tricks

Many of us are sorry to see the summer go. Although living in New England, we look forward to the changing seasons; each has its own special details. As you pack away your swim toys and get your garden ready for the winter, don’t forget about your chimney. Professionals suggest that an annual Chimney sweep and inspection be conducted. 

Regular maintenance and upkeep ensure lasting efficiency in New Britain CT

When a problem arises, the best plan is to tackle it as soon as possible. Taking care of any repairs early will cost you much less than waiting until the damage increases. 

What Can I Do To Get My Fireplace Ready For The Upcoming Season?

  • Clean out the firebox – Carefully sweep out the accumulated ash. This task should be done after every couple of fires. When cleaning out the firebox, use a metal bucket and shovel.Wait 24 hours before attempting to clean it out to ensure the ash has cooled. Bring the bucket outside, away from any buildings. Use the ash in your garden.
  • Go outside, take a look at your chimney from the outside. Note any signs of wear. A professional should address cracks or missing masonry. 
  • Clear any overhanging trees or shrubs around your fireplace. Check near the crown as well. Wind can cause damage if trees are left too close to the chimney.
  • Check for obstructions. During the summer months, small animals, debris, leaves, and twigs can get caught up in your chimney. This can cause a chimney fire.
  • Observe the chimney cap, flashing, and crown. It may be difficult to see completely, but if something looks cracked, missing, or dislodged, note this and bring it to the attention of our technician.
  • Check the batteries on carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors. It is advisable to change the batteries when you turn the clocks back in the fall.

Not everyone is handy, and cleaning the fireplace is a messy job. That is why Northeastern Chimney is here for you. We hire qualified technicians, so you don’t have to worry about the yearly maintenance. 

Professional and reliable fireplace inspections and sweeps in Granby, CT

Chimney Inspection and Sweep – What to expect.

  • Sweep – You can expect our professionals to clean out the firebox. Any leftover ash or spent wood would be taken away. We will use a vacuum to clean this area. Removing the ash will eliminate any smells that come with any moisture in the air. Our technicians will use a brush to brush away any creosote that has collected along the chimney liner as well. 
  • Inspection – When our team arrives, we will inspect the inside and outside of your chimney. We are looking for cracks and missing masonry. We will check for any water damage. Once our inspection is complete, our technician will give you a comprehensive evaluation and any suggestions regarding any repairs if needed.
  • 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.

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

The Freeze-Thaw Cycle on Your Chimney is Coming!

Welcome to the Chicagoland area, the perfect weather conditions for the Freeze-Thaw cycles on your chimney. The Freeze-Thaw cycles put constant stress on the chimney with the expansion and contraction of the bricks and mortar. But why is Superior Chimney talking about it now? To get you ready for the changing and fluctuating temperatures, the exterior chimney needs to be checked now. Depending on how the weather holds up, you may only have until mid-late November where any repairs can be done before it gets too cold.

Getting Ready for the Cold, Dry and Wet Weather

We live in a wet, humid, cold and hot place. It’s inevitable that we’re going to experience the Freeze-Thaw cycle on your chimney. How does it work? When moisture makes its way into the smallest cracks or hairline cracks in the mortar joints, it can just sit there…and nothing will happen. Until the temperatures begin to drop below freezing or 32 degrees. That trapped water turns to ice.

Water expands when it freezes. This means that when it does, it will push the mortar and brick creating and widening cracks. When the weather begins to warm up, the ice will melt exposing the cracks and loosening of the bricks from the mortar. If repairs are not made at this time, the Freeze-Thaw cycle will repeat again causing the bricks and mortar to continue its separation and additional damage such as flaking or crumbling will begin. This will cause the structural integrity of the exterior of the chimney to weaken.

What Happens if the Chimney Weakens?

If the chimney weakens you can be sure that the mortar joints deteriorate, the bricks or stones will begin to shift, which means they will become loose. Most importantly, it will continue to get worse as water will make its way inside of the chimney and even your home. Tuckpointing not only makes the chimney look nice, it is serving a very important purpose. It is protecting your home from damages. By keeping the mortar sealed and weatherproofed before winter makes its way into Chicagoland, you can prevent costly repairs down the road.

Waterproof the Chimney

Waterproofing the chimney extends the life of the exterior chimney. Once your chimney has been swept and inspected by a Superior Chimney certified masonry expert, get any recommended repairs completed (if any). Next, we will apply a waterproofing agent directly onto the bricks and mortar to help prevent the bricks from flaking and mortar from absorbing water. Once completed, the waterproofing formula will last for 8 to 10 years. Now your chimney will be protected when the Freeze-Thaw cycle on your chimney begins this winter.

Contact Superior Chimney today to get the chimney swept, inspected and waterproofed for a safe and dry winter. Contact us at 877-244-6349.

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

Should You Get Your Chimney Tuckpointed Now?

As the weather begins to cool, Superior Chimney has received calls asking if tuckpointing the chimney should be done now, or if it can wait until Spring. That’s a great question. If this a homeowner is asking, then there are other homeowners that are unsure as well. So, let’s address tuckpointing the chimney and the importance of the mortar between the bricks or stone.

What is Tuckpointing the Chimney?

Tuckpointing the chimney is a skilled process of removing mortar that has deteriorated or fallen out from between the bricks and replace it with new mortar in order to restore the strength and endurance of the structure while preventing further damage to the chimney.

Seems like an easy DIY project? Not so fast. The job is more than just filling in cracks or missing spaces. Because these workers are highly skilled, they can easily spot underlying issues that are the cause or contributing cause to the problem. In addition, simply mixing the mortar is like being a master chef. The consistency needs to be perfect. If not, you’ve just added to your problem.

Why is Waiting Until Spring a Costly Choice?

Furthering the damage. Tuckpointing the chimney saves the structure from increased damage. What are those damages? Let’s take a further look.

  • Water leaks: This is where DIY isn’t so DIY. Skilled masonry professionals are looking not just for the obvious cracks where visible space is apparent, they are also searching for hairline cracks in certain areas and bond breaks. You may look at it and say, “eh, it should be fine.” When in reality, any imperfections are a weak area for water to get inside of the structure, compromise the integrity of the structure and begin finding its way down and into your home. You won’t notice that single drip. But you will sure notice when that single drip turns into a real sound in your home. That means it has had plenty of time to mature.
  • Chimney collapse! Seems a bit dramatic. When something such as a chimney is high up on the home, how often do you make it a point to view its condition. Exactly. Occasionally to never. And that’s okay, that is what Superior Chimney is here for. Do the things that are not so top of mind and obvious.

When mortar begins to weaken, cracks will form and pieces of the mortar will begin to fall out. Every deterioration will act a bit differently. It may be where the mortar separates from the bricks and a good storm later, the chimney leans to the side, some of the bricks may fall out or it can crumble all together. But because we know you’re not that type of homeowner, (or you wouldn’t be reading the article) it shouldn’t get that far.

  • Mold and Odors: We all know that black stuff that appears in our bathroom and shower. That’s mold. It occurs when moisture is constant and it gets trapped. Same thing with old food in containers in the refrigerator. It’s no different for the chimney.

Mold will grow in the chimney because of lots of moisture from water leaks, high humidity often found in the Chicagoland area, and condensation buildup. Now mix that with dust and debris from the outdoors, and you have a wonderful mix of mold and nose aversion smells.

Next Steps to a Healthy Home and Dry Seasons What to do to Avoid the damages done to the chimney? Be sure to contact Superior Chimney today in order to get your exterior chimney inspected. At the same time, we can sweep and inspect the interior chimney as well as the chimney flue to ensure it maintains a healthy fire-worthy condition. Call 877-244-6349 to make an appointment with a certified, highly skilled technician.

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

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

The post Weathering New England: Why Your Home is Your Best Investment Right Now appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

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

    (877) 959-3534