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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. 

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.

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

Picture this: The first chilly October evening arrives, you’re ready for that perfect fireside moment, annnnnnnd… your fireplace won’t cooperate. Don’t let this happen to you!

Why Smart Homeowners Prep in Summer

While everyone else is scrambling when temperatures drop, you’ll be ahead of the game. Plus, you will have extra time to talk with our crews to answer any questions you may have (Your 8-Week Game Plan)

Right Now (August): The detective work starts with a quick look-around. Any obvious damage to your chimney? Is the chimney cap still attached? Critters making themselves at home? Damper opening and closing smoothly? Any cracks in the firebox?

Late August/Early September: Next, hire a professional for a comprehensive inspection – we’re equipped with specialized cameras and tools to detect hidden issues. A professional chimney inspection and sweeping will identify any potential dangers and removes built-up creosote (the stuff that causes chimney fires). Any needed repairs get handled while the weather’s still cooperating.

September: The final check; test your smoke detectors, clear the hearth area and any dangling décor. If you’re burning wood, make sure it’s properly seasoned.

Red Flags That Need Professional Help NOW:

• Weird smells from your fireplace
• White staining on your chimney exterior
• Water stains around your fireplace
• Your damper is being stubborn
• Any cracks or rust you can see

Here’s the Thing About DIY vs. Professional Help

You can handle the basic stuff – cleaning debris out of the fireplace, testing dampers, checking screens. But chimney work? That’s where experience (and proper equipment) really matters. We’ve seen too many “weekend warrior” repairs that created bigger problems.

Ready to Get Started?

Summer appointment slots are filling up fast! Although we try our best to accommodate, you don’t want to be the person calling in October asking if we can “squeeze you in”.

Call us today to schedule your fireplace prep. Your future cozy self will thank you.

Because a working fireplace isn’t just about comfort – it’s about keeping your family safe while you make those fall and winter memories.

The post Your Fireplace Misses You – Summer is the Perfect Time to Reconnect appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

The chimney crown is the chimney crown jewel for any system. It may be just a slab of concrete, but it serves an important purpose. Recently, standing in line at the grocery store, a couple was discussing their recent chimney inspection. The couple found that the chimney crown had multiple cracks. Some cracks were hairline cracks while others had more pronounced gaps. Whether small or large, these cracks can cause water and snow melt to enter the chimney system and make its way into the home where it can cause damage.

The Chimney Crown Jewel

Yes, this is a play on words but does explain the importance of the chimney crown. The chimney crown is a large slab of cement that covers the top of the chimney and extends beyond all four sides of the chimney structure beneath. The purpose of the chimney crown is to:

• Protect the chimney from outside elements: The chimney crown protects the entrance of the chimney covering the space between the flue liner and the walls. It directs rain, snow and ice away from getting into the chimney top. If we didn’t have the chimney crown, water would begin to deteriorate the chimney.
• Slows Down the Deterioration: That’s why we call it the chimney crown jewel! The freeze thaw cycle, or the temperature swings like we’re experiencing, can cause the bricks to crack and flake (spalling). The chimney crown is a barrier of protection.
• Maintain the Integrity of the Structure: By protecting the brick and mortar from deterioration and damage, the chimney crown helps maintain the overall integrity of the chimney.

Is there a Difference Between a Crown and a Cap?

Sometimes, there’s some misunderstanding between the chimney crown and a chimney cap. That’s because both are providing protection to the entryway of the chimney, but each in their own way.

The chimney cap is a metal cover that sits over the flue opening in order to keep rain, snow, animals and debris from entering the chimney flue. By maintaining the security of the opening, damage to the interior of the home and chimney can be avoided.

The chimney crown is a cement slab that extends over the bricks providing direction for rain and snow to land and drip away from the chimney structure. It also will help control some of the deterioration of the brick and mortar. The chimney cap usually sits on top of the flue that comes out of the chimney crown.

Is there a Way to Protect the Chimney Crown Jewel?

Once homeowners understand the importance of the chimney cap, most would like to protect it from failing. Superior Chimney offers a crown coat, which is specifically formulated to withstand the weather elements. By applying this material, the chimney crown will be protected from chimney leaks which reduces repairs.

Contact us today to learn more about your chimney crown and how to protect it for the long term.

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

It seems crazy to be talking about how chimney bricks expand and contract, but as we have experienced, we’ve gone from 90 degrees to 70 degrees in a 24 hour timeframe. Those type of swings in temperatures create stress on the brick or stone material causing it to slowly break away from the mortar.

Chimney Bricks Expand and Contract

The Chicagoland area is great for temperature swings regardless of season. As a result, the chimney needs to be inspected annually to ensure cracks don’t form from the expansion and contraction. These small or large cracks are perfect points for the weather elements to enter. Rain is one weather element that will enter any crack it can find. Once in between the mortar and the bricks or stone, the water begins making its way into the house.

If you begin to hear dripping sounds in or near the fireplace, you have waited too long and repairs are eminent. How can you avoid damage when chimney bricks expand and contract? An annual chimney inspection.

Annual Chimney Inspection

If you have a gas, wood burning fireplace or never use the fireplace, summer is the perfect time to get it swept and inspected without a wait. What are the levels of a chimney inspection and what do they mean?

Level 1: This is a basic chimney inspection and is a perfect choice for annual maintenance that has been serviced each year whether the fireplace was used or not. A certified technician from Superior Chimney will inspect the chimney’s interior and exterior including the flue to ensure the structure is sound and check for any obstructions or creosote, which is a flammable deposit left from using fireplaces.

Level 2: A level 2 inspection includes everything in Level 1 along with a more in-depth analysis. This type of inspection is required when you are selling a home, natural disaster or when making a change to the system such as installing a new flue liner or appliance.

Level 3: The most comprehensive inspection is a Level 3. It generally occurs if something is seriously wrong and it was identified in the Level 1 or Level 2 chimney inspection.  It may involve invasive steps such as removal of part of the chimney. However, keep in mind this level is only for serious issues.

Weather is Unpredictable

Ultimately, the unpredictable weather and dramatic temperature swings in the Chicagoland area can take a serious toll on your chimney. The constant cycle of expansion and contraction creates stress that leads to cracks, leaving your home vulnerable to water damage and other issues.

By scheduling an annual chimney inspection, you can proactively address and avoid any serious problems. Be sure to contact us today at 877-244-6349.

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

If you’ve got a fireplace, you’ve got a chimney. And if you’ve got a chimney, you should have a chimney crown. Problem is, most homeowners don’t know what that is or why it’s important. But here’s the deal: that concrete or stone slab sitting on top of the chimney isn’t just there for decoration. It’s one of the most critical parts of your chimney system, and without it, you could be looking at major repair bills down the road.

What is a Chimney Crown?

The chimney crown is like a lid for your chimney. It’s the cap that covers the top of the brick or stone structure (but not the flue opening) — that’s what the cap does. The crown’s job is to keep water, snow, and ice from getting into the masonry and causing damage. Think of the crown like an umbrella for the chimney. Without it, rain would pour straight into the masonry and the space between the flue and chimney walls. And if you know anything, water and masonry don’t mix.

A good chimney crown slopes slightly downward so water runs off the sides instead of pooling on the top. It also extends a little past the chimney’s edges, kind of like a baseball cap brim, to keep water from running straight down the masonry.

Why You Absolutely Need One

Chimneys are exposed to everything Mother Nature throws at them: blazing sun, freezing temps, pounding rain, snow, and wind. Over time, all that weather takes a toll. The crown acts as your chimney’s first line of defense. Without it, you’re inviting a long list of problems, including:

• Masonry deterioration
• Flue damage
• Interior leaks

In short, a chimney without a crown is like a roof without shingles—it’s a disaster waiting to happen.

Types of Crown Damage

Even if you have a chimney crown, it’s not a set-it-and-forget-it kind of thing. Crowns can take a beating over the years, and when they start to fail, you have to act fast. Here are the most common types of chimney crown damage.

• Cracks and Splits: Temperature changes cause expansion and contraction. Over time, this movement creates cracks in the crown, which let in moisture. Even small cracks can turn into big ones quickly.
• Erosion: Rain, wind, and snow can wear the crown’s surface away, making it rough, pitted, and less effective at shedding water.
• Poor Construction: Some older crowns were made with the wrong materials (like standard mortar instead of concrete), making them more prone to damage. Others weren’t built with the proper slope, so water just sits there and seeps in.
• Rust Stains or Metal Failure: If your crown includes metal flashing or reinforcement, it can rust over time, leading to staining and potential structural issues.

When to Call a Pro

A little bit of wear and tear is normal, but here’s the thing: chimney crown damage can go from “no big deal” to “huge repair bill” pretty quickly. You should call a chimney professional if you notice:

• Visible cracks, especially wider than hairline
• Water stains in the home, which could mean your crown is letting water in
• Chunks or missing pieces
• Rust on the chimney cap or flue
• Pooling water on the crown, which means it’s not sloped correctly and needs to be fixed

A professional chimney sweep can inspect the crown and let you know whether it needs sealing, resurfacing, or a full rebuild. The good news is that if you catch problems early, repairs are usually quick and affordable. Wait too long and you could be looking at a much bigger job, like rebuilding part of the chimney.

Do you know what’s going on with your chimney crown? Call the experts at Northeastern Chimney Inc. We’re the most trusted chimney and fireplace professionals in Central Connecticut. Whether you need a crown installation, repair, chimney cleaning, or anything else, our expert team can handle it. Plus, we offer a 5-star guarantee, ensuring you’re happy with the work. Contact us today!

The post Why A Chimney Crown is Important (Even Necessary) appeared first on .

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

As with any other part of your chimney or furnace, you can experience damage or just regular wear and tear. 

This is why the furnace flue should indeed be inspected regularly. If a furnace flue is not venting properly, it can leak carbon monoxide gas into your home. This can be a deadly situation and should be taken seriously. This can also be detected by an inspection.

Your furnace flue is not maintained by your utility company. Many homeowners are unaware of this. A lack of maintenance or neglect can be life-threatening.

Potential Issues:

• A by-product of gas and oil furnaces can cause the flue lining to deteriorate or be eaten away. This acidic condensate can cause damaging effects to the flue furnace. 
• Broken pieces of the deteriorated furnace can cause a blockage that would allow poisonous gas to enter the home. These fumes are odorless, tasteless, and invisible. 
• Other blockages. If there is no chimney cap to prevent debris and animals from getting into the furnace, this can cause a blockage, also causing carbon monoxide poisoning.

When Should I Schedule A Flue Furnace Inspection?

Whenever you get a new flue installed, have a professional chimney specialist verify that the flue is in good working condition. Annual maintenance is important to the overall health of the flue. Call Northeastern Chimney for your appointment today.

What Problems Can Be Experienced?

• Backdraft. Exhaust being pulled into the home is a sure sign that backdraft is an issue. 
• Liner Damage. Especially in older homes, liners are made of terra-cotta clay tiles. Over time, the heat from the furnace starts to deteriorate the clay tiles.  
• Moisture/Condensation. If condensation or moisture is noted on the windows, especially when the furnace is just turned on, this may indicate that the furnace is not venting properly. This is caused by fumes leaking into the home from the furnace. 
• Incorrect Slope. Furnaces have high levels of condensation. If the slope of the furnace is not draining this condensation, it may trigger a shutdown. This can cause venting problems. 

As A Homeowner, What Can I Do?

• Book an annual furnace flue inspection. Maintenance and keeping up is important to the overall function and efficiency of your furnace. 
• Install and check your CO2 detector. Every home should have a CO2 detector. Have one installed or do it yourself. 

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). Our technicians are trained and qualified to complete a quality job. We stand by our reputation. You can trust that we will take care of you in a timely and courteous manner. 

The post Why A Furnace Flue Inspection Is Important appeared first on .

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

When you burn a fire in your fireplace, the heat is intense. A chimney liner is in place to protect the inside of the chimney as well as safeguard the home and the chimney structure. There are potential hazards associated with combustion, as well as corrosive byproducts that are distributed when wood is burned in the fireplace.  The liner serves as a protective barrier to shield you and your home from danger.

Fire Prevention:

Chimney liners help contain the heat and prevent it from transferring to combustible material like wood and insulation that is nearby. Chimneys can overheat and ignite nearby structures, potentially leading to dangerous chimney fires. Stainless steel liners have been proven to be a popular and effective material to use.

Improve Draft:

With a proper liner, exhaust gas will exit the chimney with ease. This will allow for a proper draft and prevent downdrafts. 

Gas Leak Prevention:

Liners prevent gases that can be deadly, such as carbon monoxide, from seeping into the home. The masonry may become brittle or cracked, which will allow gases into your home without a liner. 

Protecting Masonry:

A liner will protect the bricks and mortar by sheltering the chimney from the extensive heat emitted by the fire. The heat can dry out bricks and cause deterioration.

What Is The Lifespan of a Chimney Liner?

A liner should be up to code to properly protect your home. You can expect to get 15 to 20 years from a chimney liner. Stainless steel liners tend to last longer due to its strength. You can expect to get the maximum longevity with stainless steel compared to a clay liner. 

Is It Necessary to Have A Chimney Liner?

It is not a legal requirement to install a liner; however, most professionals would recommend one. Without one, you can expect the walls of the chimney to eventually deteriorate, and smoke will then seep through the cracks, causing dangerous fumes. 

What Are My Liner Options?

• Clay Tile Liners. The most common liner. This is the most inexpensive type of liner. However, with the low cost also comes a shorter lifespan. You can expect a clay liner to last 5 to 15 years.
• Metal Chimney Liners. Metal liners are stainless steel or aluminum. They are easy to install due to their lightweight. The cost is much more than the clay tile liner; however, you will benefit from the lifespan.
• Cast-In-Place Chimney Liners. At a lifespan of 50 years, you can imagine this being the most expensive. The cast-in-place liner also contributes to the overall structural stability of the chimney. 

Based on the time you will be in the home as well as your budget, there is a liner for you. The safety benefits are worth the expense. Contact Northeastern Chimney for more information on the type of chimney liner that is best for you.

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). Our technicians have years of experience and are trained and qualified.

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

On many of our social media platforms, we get messages sent to us asking if it is really important to clean the dryer vent. Because there are some people who fail to pull out the lint catcher to clean it, we always clarify and ask, “Do you clean your lint catcher?” If the answer is yes, then we can have the conversation about the importance of cleaning the dryer vent.

Here’s a quick Question & Answer on Dryer Vent Cleaning.

Q: How often should I get the dryer vent cleaned?

A: It is recommended that the dryer vent gets cleaned at least once per year. More frequent if you have a large family and the dryer is used frequently.

Q: How do I know if I need a dryer vent inspection?

A: There are many ‘signs’ to watch for. Let’s go through a few.

Longer Drying Times: if you notice that it’s taking a long time for the clothes to dry, it could be a ‘sign’ that the vent is clogged.

Overheating Dryer: if you place your hand on top of your dryer and it is too hot to even touch, then you know there is restricted airflow. It must be cleaned immediately to be sure it doesn’t turn into a fire.

Burning Smell: if you smell something burning when the dryer is on, this again would mean that there is lint built up in the venting system. It must be cleaned right away to be sure it doesn’t catch fire.

Energy Bills: sometimes these signs just don’t show up. But you noticed that your energy bills have increased. One big culprit is the clothes dryer because it is being forced to work harder than normal.

Lint Buildup: you may or may not see the lint buildup due to where it is installed. If you notice that lint is building up outside of the vent opening, it is time to get the exhaust vent cleaned out.

Q: Why should I clean the dryer vent?

A: As you can tell from a couple of the answers, one very important reason is to prevent a fire from occurring. In addition, it is to speed up the drying process which leads to saving on energy.

Q: What is included in the dryer vent cleaning?

A: Superior Chimney technicians will be conducting a complete assessment of the venting system ensuring there are no blockages and damage. The technician will begin to remove the linkage with our specialized tools that remove any of the lint as well as other debris. Most important is to test the airflow. We want to be sure the exhaust can freely flow through the venting system for proper removal of carbon monoxide. And finally, we’ll always ensure our work is done properly and is safe for you to use again.

As you can tell, it is important to clean the dryer vent once per year to keep your home in great working order. Contact us today at 877-244-6349 to schedule your appointment. Don’t wait for the winter sweaters to build up lint again in your dryer vent.

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

As the Chicagoland area continues to reach hot temperatures, we’ve had some very uncomfortable humid days. Simply working in the garden or walking down the driveway to get the mail, you’ll experience drips of sweat due to the high humidity. Your chimney is going through similar experiences. Humidity can intensify unwanted smoke smells from the chimney and fireplace into your home, especially if it hasn’t been swept yet. Let’s talk about humidity and the chimney and what you can do about it.

Humidity and the Chimney Equals Intensified Smells

We all enjoy a roaring fire in the cool or cold months. Did you know that with a wood burning fireplace a byproduct called creosote is released, and a fair amount sticks to the interior walls of the chimney? If not swept after the season is over, it will begin to release a smoky smell with the mix of humidity. At times, there may also be another odor. This smell could be musty, and you could be smelling mold and mildew. It can often times happen if there isn’t a waterproofing agent to keep moisture out. The smell of mold and mildew isn’t limited to those with wood burning fireplaces, it can also be gas fireplaces or those that don’t even use the fireplace.

Can the Smell be Controlled?

Absolutely. You don’t need to live with humidity and the chimney. Here are a few ways you can remove/minimize the smell from your home, especially on those humid days.

Chimney Sweep and Inspection — A regular chimney sweep and inspection can control the smells that come from the fireplace whether it be creosote or the mildew smell. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) encourages all homeowners to sweep their chimney every year for the safest and best way to enjoy your fireplace.

Chimney Damper — Chimney dampers control the flow of air which can play a big part in getting rid of the smell. Chimney dampers are a great way to control the flow of air especially when you are burning a fire.

Chimney Cap — A chimney cap plays a key role in keeping water out of the chimney. It protects the opening on top of the chimney from animals, debris and rain or snow from entering the chimney. By keeping everything out, you also get to keep the musty smells out too!

If you like smoked foods, get a smoker. You definitely don’t want that continuous smoky smell in your home due to humidity and the chimney. Call Superior Chimney today to get your chimney swept and inspected especially since we’ve had many humid days, and probably more to come. Call 877-244-6349 today!

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

Got a fireplace? Then you’ve got a damper. You might not think about it much—until one cold night when your cozy fire turns your living room into a smokehouse or your heating bill makes you question your life choices.

The good news? With just a little know-how, you can keep things running safely and efficiently. Let’s take a look at what your damper actually does, how to use it, and when it might be time for a replacement.

What’s a Chimney Damper, Anyway?

A damper is a metal flap inside your chimney flue. You can open or close it to manage airflow. Open it when you have a fire going, so smoke and gases can escape. Close it when the fireplace isn’t in use, so you’re not losing warm air or letting cold drafts creep in.

It’s a simple concept—but using it the wrong way can lead to some big problems.

Tips for Using Your Damper the Right Way

Open It Before You Light a Fire

This one’s non-negotiable. If you light a fire with the damper shut, all that smoke has nowhere to go. Suddenly, your relaxing evening includes coughing, a smoky house, and probably a visit from the smoke alarm. Not ideal.

Most dampers have a lever, knob, or chain to adjust them. Not sure if it’s open? Try shining a flashlight up the flue or checking for a draft with your hand.

Keep It Open While the Fire’s Going

This might seem obvious, but some folks close the damper early, thinking it’ll help trap heat inside. Don’t do it. That just sends dangerous smoke and gases back into your home. Wait until the fire is completely out—no glowing embers, no smoke—before you close it.

Shut It After Everything Cools Off

Once things have cooled down, close the damper to keep your warm air in and outdoor air (and maybe a few critters) out. Just be sure there’s no heat or smoke left lingering before you do.

Don’t Force a Stuck Damper

If it feels jammed or too tough to move, don’t yank on it. You could end up doing more harm than good. It might just need some cleaning or lubrication—or it might be time for a repair. Either way, it’s best to have a pro take a look.

Signs That Your Damper Might Be Done For

Dampers don’t last forever. Here are a few red flags that yours might be on its way out:

It’s Hard to Open or Close

If it feels rusted, warped, or stuck, it may not be doing its job. That’s not just annoying—it’s unsafe.

Drafts Sneak In Even When It’s Closed

A properly sealed damper should block outside air. If cold air’s slipping through, it could mean the seal is worn out, or the damper itself is bent or cracked.

Smoke Comes Inside Even When It’s Open

If you’ve got smoke entering the room despite the damper being open, something’s off. It might be misaligned or partially blocking the flue.

You Notice Rust or Visible Damage

Rust means moisture has found its way in, which can lead to serious issues. Cracks are another bad sign—they can let smoke and harmful gases escape into your living space.

It’s Been There Forever

If your damper has been around since your house was built, it’s probably time for an upgrade. Older throat dampers don’t seal as well as newer models, and switching to a top-sealing damper can make a big difference in both efficiency and comfort.

Think Your Damper Needs a Checkup?

If your damper’s acting up—or if you just want peace of mind before fireplace season hits—get in touch with Northeastern Chimney. We’ve helped homeowners all over central Connecticut keep their chimneys clean and working right. Whether it’s a simple fix or time for a full replacement, our certified team can help.

Call us today to schedule an inspection and make sure your fireplace is ready for the cold months ahead.

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