As the weather gets colder, many homeowners begin to think about their to-do lists for the winter. One item that is often overlooked is masonry maintenance. However, putting off masonry projects can lead to bigger problems down the road. Here are some benefits of getting masonry projects done now:

1. Prevent further damage.

Small cracks in your chimney or walkway may not seem like a big deal, but they can quickly turn into larger problems. By getting these projects done now, you can prevent further damage.

2. Save money in the long run.

Masonry projects may seem like a costly investment upfront, but they will save you money in the long run. Ignoring small problems will only lead to bigger, more expensive problems down the road.

3. Improve your home’s curb appeal.

Whether you’re planning on selling your home or not, it’s always important to maintain its curb appeal. well-maintained masonry will make your home look its best and improve its value.

4. Increase your safety.

Chimneys and walkways that are in disrepair can be dangerous. By getting these projects done now, you can rest assured knowing that your family is safe from potential injury.

• Chimney Rebuild
• Chimney Pointing
• Brick Replacement
• Chimney Waterproofing
• Walkways

Conclusion:

Don’t wait until it’s too late to finish your masonry projects. By taking care of them now, you’ll be preventing further damage, saving money, improving your home’s curb appeal, and increasing your family’s safety—all reasons to consider getting masonry projects done now rather than later!

The post October News – Last Call for Masonry appeared first on Boston’s Best Chimney.

The cooler weather is on its way as Fall arrives. It’s time to gather at your fireplace feeling safe and relaxed. The best way to do so is by avoiding chimney safety issues in your old home. Excessive heat breaks down the chimney over time, and it’s important to keep your family safe and warm around the fireplace. If you own an old home, let’s take a look at six safety issues to avoid with your C – H – I – M – N – E – Y.

C – Cracks in the Cap, Crown, or Flue  

Most old chimneys have cement crowns to keep out the moisture and rain. This barrier easily cracks and deteriorates over time from environmental pressures. Newer chimneys have caps instead of crowns because they are more efficient at deterring animals, leaves, debris, and moisture.

H – Hindrance Obstructing Chimney   

Older chimneys, especially if not properly maintained, are at an elevated risk of chimney obstructions. Creosote, debris, and even animals can create obstructions and hinder proper ventilation. The blockages reduce airflow and cause multiple safety concerns. Creosote build-up is another common chimney obstruction in older homes. If not properly cleaned and inspected over time, the creosote builds up and leads to chimney fires.

I – Incineration of Build-up   

Pyrolysis is one of the most common issues in old homes. When the chimney is exposed to high temperatures over a long period of time, the wood behind it dries out and incinerates. Materials can spontaneously burst into flames due to the pressure and dryness without being directly exposed to a fire. The chimney liner helps with build-up and minimizes the risk of pyrolysis.

M – Masonry & Mortar Damage  

With old homes, your bricks might be of higher quality than ones manufactured today. However, they are still susceptible to mortar damage and deterioration. We use a process called tuckpointing to remove and replace damaged mortar, extending the life of your chimney. Block chimneys are also common in older homes and are less ideal because they tend to leak, crack, and lean more than brick chimneys. Surrounding all four sides of your block chimney with brick is a way to make the chimney safer and also more beautiful.

N- No Chimney Liner  

Chimney liners are now standard in homes but were not deemed necessary until the 1940s. This means most homes built earlier lack what is arguably the most important chimney component. The lack of a chimney liner causes pyrolysis, flue damage, and carbon monoxide leaks. If you have an older home, you should schedule a chimney inspection to ensure your liner is installed and intact before you use your chimney.

E – Exhaust Vent BackUp   

Inadequate venting is one of the most common causes of fires in old homes. If the fireplace does not have proper ventilation, the exhaust vents backup and dangerous gasses and fumes come back into the home. The exhaust backup can also cause damage to the structural integrity of the chimney and cause the liner to fail or creosote to build up.

Y – Yearly Chimney Inspections  

An annual chimney inspection performed by a professional is the best way to avoid these common chimney problems in older homes. Let us help keep your beautiful older chimney safe and in service to you! Give us a call today to schedule a visit from one of our professionals.

The post Avoid These Chimney Safety Issues if You Own an Old Home first appeared on Southern Chimneys.

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

Winter is on our doorstep here in Central Connecticut. As the summer heat gave way to crisp breezes and falling leaves, there are some home upkeep tasks to keep in mind. These range from winterizing your camper to cleaning out your gutters. And of course, your fireplace system will have several pre-season maintenance tasks before we’re all drinking pumpkin spice lattes in front of a cozy, warm fire. So today, let’s take a look at the four things to do with your chimney before the start of winter.

Schedule an inspection

Most importantly, you should schedule a chimney inspection. A licensed technician will inspect the internal and external components of your system looking for signs of damage, leaks, and creosote build-up. Failing to take this step before using your fireplace for the first time in a season can lead to costly repairs and even cause a house fire. Why?

Because blockages such as leaves and other debris, as well as the aforementioned creosote, could catch fire, follow the updraft out of your flue, and cause a house fire on your roof. An inspection will identify any issues and help you make informed decisions on how to fix those problems before you use your fireplace this fall.

Perform any necessary waterproofing

If an inspection uncovers any leaks or water damage, taking care of it proactively will be essential to extending the life of your chimney. Your technician can repair damaged brick and mortar with a process called tuckpointing, which allows them to remove the affected pieces and replace them with new, color-matched masonry. After that, they can professionally apply a waterproof sealant to the chimney to protect it even further.

Repairing the damaged and replacing missing parts

Repairing damage when it is found is vital. The longer damage is left untreated, the more repairs will cost. Not only that, the damage will have likely spread beyond the initial spot and will result in a longer repair time as well as the added cost. During the inspection, your technician will look for missing pieces in addition to damaged areas. If parts are missing, replacing them will be essential to ensuring the efficient operation of your fireplace and chimney this fall and winter. A missing cap can allow debris and critters looking for a safe, warm bed to take up residence in your chimney causing an obvious safety issue when it’s time to use your fireplace.

Updating your firebox

An outdated or damaged firebox can cause issues when you try to burn a fire. Fall is the perfect time to repair and or replace this component of your fireplace as it’s likely not in use.

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

A leaning chimney not only looks ominous but can also be very dangerous. If you notice your chimney leaning, it’s likely an indication of more serious structural problem. In order to get your chimney in safe condition again, you’ll need help from a chimney professional. Here are some of the causes of leaning chimneys as well as what you need to know about chimney repair.

Signs Your Chimney is Leaning

Many people don’t notice their chimney is leaning until it is at a very sharp angle and is too late to fix. Visible tilting is the most obvious sign of your chimney leaning, but there are other, more subtle signs to watch out for as well. If you notice that your brick and mortar is starting to decay or that your roof is starting to leak more often, it’s likely time for a chimney inspection.

What causes chimneys to lean?

There are a variety of factors that can cause chimneys to lean over time. One of the most common is damage to the brick and mortar. When the mortar starts to pull away from the brick, the entire chimney can start to shift.

There are a variety of reasons why this happens, with the most common being water damage and seismic activity. Another common cause of a leaning chimney is poor initial construction. In particular, many leaning chimneys either don’t have a footing or have a very poorly constructed footing.

The footing is a concrete slab that supports the structure of the chimney. When the footing is too small or prone to cracks, it can cause the entire chimney to lean. It’s also normal for the structure of your house to change as it settles over time. However, loose, shifting soil can speed up this process, causing your chimney to lean. Homes with poor drainage may also experience this as water pools in the soil around your home.

Why are leaning chimneys dangerous?

It’s important to address your leaning chimney as soon as you notice an issue. While it may not seem like a big deal at first, a leaning chimney can actually result in a host of safety issues. As the chimney continues to lean, it can negatively affect the structure of the rest of your house, resulting in a variety of other safety issues. Additionally, brick and mortar can start to fall off the side of your chimney, posing a huge safety risk for anyone standing in your yard. On top of that, leaning chimneys are more likely to result in leaks. Debris and pests may also fall in through the gap between your chimney and your roof. When you do use your fireplace, a leaning chimney may not ventilate properly, causing a fire hazard.

What should I do if I notice my chimney is leaning?

If you notice your chimney is leaning, don’t wait to call a professional. Have your chimney inspected as soon as possible and avoid using your fireplace until it has been repaired. A chimney professional will be able to perform a thorough inspection and recommend the appropriate repairs for your space.

The post What to Do If Your Chimney Is Leaning? appeared first on .

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

The chimney inspection will tell you that upgrading your fireplace is something to consider whether you are building a new home or not. There are architectural details that can lay out building materials. One item people normally overlook is the fireplace. Even if a lot of new homes can feature fireplaces, a lot of people that build a new home misses the chance to upgrade their fireplace. Therefore, they will miss the chance to increase the value of their home and lower their heating bills.

Regardless if you are sitting by the fireplace roasting marshmallows for the smores or drinking a nice beverage, fireplaces can be an important investment in any home. Here are reasons why you should upgrade your fireplace:

New Heating System Installation

Fireplace stoves and inserts have several venting requirements compared to fireplaces. Most of the time, it is important to have a chimney liner installed that directly connects to the new heating appliance. You should work with a chimney and fireplace expert to make sure that you order the correct liner size and have it installed properly.

When you install a new heating system, you will surely need a chimney upgrade.

Saves You Money

You probably did not know that an outdated fireplace in your living room actually adds a lot to your monthly bill. Old fireplaces can be drafty and heat normally escapes through the chimney top. Therefore, when you think that you have saved money by keeping your fireplace the way it is. There are other ways to fix the problem as well, and not all of the options need a total renovation. You can just install a wood-burning insert or gas-set into the pre-existing fireplace that opens to get rid of the draft issue. These will add a new feature and they are highly efficient and have a better overall function, which heats larger areas compared to the traditional fireplace.

Better Efficiency

The fireplace efficiency widely varies, and when you choose a fireplace wisely, you can lower the heating bill and home carbon footprint. The traditional, open-heath fireplaces send about 90% of the heat up the chimney. Fireplace inserts, whether they are pellet, wood, or gas, can return about 99% of the fire heat in your home. That will give you the chance to heat the main living space while you turn down the thermostat for the rest of your home, which lowers home heating bills. In addition, inserts produce little smoke and soot, which improves air quality in your home and the neighborhood.

Your Chimney is Not Safe

A new chimney liner installed eliminates a couple of safety risks. Chimney liners decrease the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning because it prevents toxic gas from going into your home’s masonry. It will also decrease the risk of house fire since it creates a thick barrier between the combustible parts, high temperatures, corrosive acids, and hot embers coming from the fireplace exhaust. In case there is no chimney liner, or the liner gets damaged or does not meet the safety standards, you can invest in a new one to give protection for yourself, your home, and your loved ones.

Upgrades Home Value

About 40% of homebuyers are okay with paying a higher amount for a home that has a fireplace. You will notice that pictures are taken with the fireplace in the background. This explains why you must upgrade the fireplace when you are trying to sell your home. The value increases and potential buyers are more attracted to a house with a fireplace.

The post Why Upgrade Your Chimney first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

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

We’re entering the season of cozying up inside and gathering by the fireplace to enjoy the fall. To make the most of the season, we want to share some fall decor inspiration to maximize the beauty and value of your fireplace and mantel area.

Before you dive into fall decorations, make sure your fireplace is safe by scheduling your annual chimney inspection. Now, here are some of our favorite fall chimney decor ideas.

Spooky

If the first smell of fall air means all things Halloween for you, then this simple and festive mantel decor by Shelterness screams your name! If it’s fall, then Halloween is always in style – just like pumpkins, bats, ghosts, and ghouls serving as fall decor staples around your fireplace.

Seasonal Chic

This fall decor by Texas Princess is a way to remember all of your favorite things about the season. A simple, word decoration and a few pumpkins are all you need to create a cozy fall space. Simple hues of orange and cream to create a trendy fall dream!

Simple Tones

If you like fall, but don’t love an orange theme for your fall decor, this simple toned mantel decor by Grace In My Space could serve as your inspiration. You may not want your fall decor to include bright orange hues in leaves and pumpkins, but there are ways to show your appreciation of fall without needing to rely on the traditional fall color scheme. 

These are just a few examples of common fall fireplace decor, but there are many more out there! Don’t be afraid to show your seasonal personality through your mantel decor. Just make sure your chimney is safe before lighting any fires!

The post Fall Chimney Decor Ideas appeared first on Boston’s Best Chimney.

Fall is here, which means that it is time to make sure that your home is prepared for the cold winter months ahead. Though winter does not begin until late December, you will likely want to use your heat and chimney long before then. That is why today we will discuss why it is important to check your chimney this fall before turning on the heat. 

Why You Should Check Your Chimney Before Turning on Your Heat

There are several compelling reasons why you should check your chimney before turning on the heat this year. 

Deal with Animal Nesting

Animals may have nested in your chimney during the spring and summer months. If your chimney smelled during the warm weather months, this is one of several signs that animals are hiding in your chimney. This is even possible if you have a chimney cap. Removing nests before using your chimney is an important safety measure to take because a blocked chimney increases the risk of CO poisoning in your home. 

Clear Out Debris

Debris often builds up in chimneys during the off season, especially since the world is in bloom during the spring and summer. As with nesting, debris build up in your chimney becomes dangerous when it is blocking the chimney passageway because it can cause CO to build up and enter your home. 

Remember to Get An Annual Inspection

The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends having your chimney inspected annually and swept annually or as needed. Since you need an annual inspection anyway, it is efficient to have this done before turning on your heat to prevent the issues that we have already discussed from happening. Read our blog about what’s involved in a chimney inspection if you would like to learn more about what to expect. 

Do You Have a Chimney Cap?

Having a chimney cap is highly recommended! Besides helping to keep animals out of your chimney, they also prevent water from entering your house and act as a spark arrestor. A home with a chimney cap is much less likely to have issues with critters, but all chimney owners should still be aware of the possibility of nesting in their chimneys. After all, the chimney cap mesh requirement in Massachusetts is ¾ inch. Though most critters can’t get through this small of a space, some still manage to enter chimneys through chimney caps. 

The post Check Your Chimney Before Turning On Your Heat appeared first on Boston’s Best Chimney.

With the warm temperatures we experienced this week, it’s hard to imagine the cooler chills creeping in this weekend. Over the summer months, we enjoyed the silence of the fireplace, just admiring its stillness and patience…until we meet again. As the Fall temperatures begin to insert itself more and more, there is a glimmer of life coming to that box space.

Fireplace Cleaning

It’s probably because we enjoy the warmth and comfort that a fire brings into the home that we care so much about the fireplace. To keep that feeling alive in a safe way for yourself, family and friends, its best to get the fireplace swept and inspected. Getting a fireplace swept and inspected doesn’t mean it’s only for those who have a wood burning fireplace, it means gas fireplaces and those non-used fireplaces as well.

It’s Not Just a Pretty Face

Fireplaces are a central point of interest in our homes. They usually have a sense of style, such as traditional with bricks or the contemporary with a white, smooth mantel. However, it gets dressed up and then decorated for the holidays, the real work is on the inside. Let’s take a look.

• Appliances Use the Chimney for Exhaust Venting. Both gas or oiled fueled appliances such as a furnace relies on the chimney to properly vent any type of harmful byproducts. This is critical to keep anything living in the household safe from toxic gases.
• As the Chimney Exhales, It Also Inhales Fresh Air. The fresh air provides the best mixture of air and fuel to keep the appliances working properly.
• Higher Efficiency Gas Furnaces are Special. The fumes that are produced by a higher efficiency gas furnace are cooler and contain water vapor, which causes more condensation to form than the older furnaces. As a result, the furnace can have a more corrosive behavior and needs to use the chimney. But if the chimney doesn’t have a chimney liner, then the result can be a blocked chimney. Yes, that means all of those toxins remain in the home.

So now you know that if you use your fireplace or not, it needs to be swept and inspected each year to ensure proper working order. You can also take a look at the CSIA, or the Chimney Safety Institute of America for more information.

14-Point Certified Chimney Inspection

A 14-point certified chimney inspection is a checklist that tells you the condition of the fireplace and chimney from last season’s freeze and thaw cycle. When the certified chimney technician comes to your home, he has a routine to follow to ensure all steps are taken thoroughly and completely. You will get the results of your sweep and inspection along with pictures to ensure you are ‘in the know’.

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

If you’re like most homeowners that have a chimney, you probably don’t give it much thought. However, because your chimney and its components are exposed to high temperatures and extreme weather, it’s only a matter of time before minor damage becomes a major headache. Your chimney crown is a crucial component prone to damage, and in this post, we look at what a crown is for, how it gets damaged, and what you can do about it.

What is a Chimney Crown?

The chimney crown is a concrete, stone slab, or metal piece that sits atop the chimney’s opening. It protects the chimney from water damage by directing water away from it as gutters do for your roof. However, because most chimney crowns are made from concrete or stone, they’re prone to wear and tear and water damage.

Causes of Chimney Crown Damage

Like the other chimney components, the crown is subject to damage, so scheduling a professional inspection at least once a year is crucial. The most common causes of crown damage are:

Wear & Tear

When the contractor installed the crown, they likely coated it with a waterproof sealer. However, this sealer only lasts a few years; once it wears out, water will soak into the masonry and freeze, causing cracks.

After a few seasons of freeze/thaw cycles, the cracks get bigger, and the crown eventually falls apart.

Poor Construction

Let’s face it: a contractor is like every other profession; you have highly skilled people and some who barely get by. If a competent contractor doesn’t install your chimney crown, it can break down sooner than expected.

Soil Shifting

If the soil under your home’s foundation shifts, it can skew your chimney, causing structural damage, including the crown. The problem with damage to the crown is that it’s difficult to see from the ground. And since many people don’t schedule routine chimney inspection and maintenance, the damage worsens yearly until the homeowner faces a significant, expensive repair.

Chimney Crown Repair

Depending on the damage level, chimney service companies have options to fix your crown without resorting to a complete rebuild (although that may be necessary in extreme cases). The first option is to reseal it. Resealing is recommended if the crown is intact and the only damage is minor cracks. Adding sealer prevents more water from seeping in and causing problems. If the crown has more profound, more extensive cracking, your chimney service company may opt to fill the cracks with cement and reapply the waterproof sealant.
Finally, if the crown is missing pieces or the walls between the flue are exposed, you need a complete crown rebuild.

How to Protect Your Chimney Crown

A well-built, waterproofed chimney crown should last up to ten years. However, it’s wise to take every precaution and protect it to get the most use out of it and keep expensive repairs at bay. Here are some tips for keeping your crown in good shape.

Reapply the Sealant

As mentioned, most contractors apply a waterproof sealant to your chimney crown when it’s installed. However, this sealant wears out when exposed to extreme weather and hot temperatures. It’s wise to reapply the sealant every eight to ten years to protect
the crown well.

Schedule Annual Inspection

Too many people put off chimney cleaning and inspection until “next season.” However, after three, four, or five seasons when they finally get around to it, they’re shocked by how much repair work needs to be done. Because your chimney is exposed to harsh weather and freezing temperatures, it’s prudent to schedule an annual inspection and maintenance. Regular maintenance allows you to fix minor issues before they turn into major expenses down the road. With a little forethought, you can ensure your chimney crown and the rest of its components stay in good condition for the life of your home.

We’re the only chimney service company you’ll ever need because we do it all, including:

● Chimney Repairs
● Chimney Rebuilding
● Chimney Inspection
● Real Estate & Insurance Claims
● Fireplace Installation
● Fireplace & Stove Cleaning
● Dryer Vent Service
● Fireplace Inserts
● And More!

The post How to Repair Chimney Crown Damage appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.

The majority of people are going to list a chimney fire as the biggest chimney threat in the community. Nothing is more damaging to a chimney than prolonged exposure to water. Since chimneys are placed on top of your home, shielding chimneys from water, snow, and rain is almost impossible.

Anyone who has had home improvement projects is aware that when there is water exposure, there is a problem. Homes are constructed from top to bottom that have water-proofing measures. A lot of basements are waterproofed, gutter systems can channel rainfall and water runoff away from any foundation. Awnings protect windows, white walls, and floors are sealed shut to prevent water damage. You can contact chimney inspection if you see the following issues:

Cracked Masonry

Chimney cracks are very common. Most chimney risks can be often but they are normally forgotten.

The good thing is that this is not the case for cracked masonry, which is normally the most expensive repair to ever happen. You can easily notice cracks in the chimney masonry which is the first place you should be looking if you developed a leak.

The masonry project repairs vary depending on how much time it takes for it to be noticed. One small crack turns into a crumbling decay if it is not maintained properly.

Flue Lining

The flue lining is an important part of your chimney, which is responsible for any draft that pulls the toxic and dangerous combustion byproducts that are produced by fire from outside. Flue linings are made using metal or clay, both of them will deteriorate if they are exposed to water damage.

Similar to the chimney’s interior masonry, flue liner damage can become undetected without a chimney inspection done yearly. If you do not have a flue duct that works properly, you will find yourself having a hard time getting your fire going and you will notice that the smoke is not outside your house.

There are Unknown Leaks

It is not surprising to a lot of projects arise after buying a home. However, that does not mean you can do everything yourself through leaks you do not know.

Other leaks do not have to come from the chimney so it can grow towards your chimney. Water is a fussy thing with building materials and if you combine that with freezing temperatures, it will not be fun.

Any size of the project can always be fixed. If there is unknown leakage, you would just have to ride it out until you can easily identify the leaks. Again, the yearly inspections are helpful in finding and eliminating problem areas before you would have to pay for a total restoration.

Siding is Warped

If there are wooden sidings in your home and your chimney is leaking with a water problem, you will see that siding is going to become warped over time if not addressed. The prolonged neglect and exposure o water down your chimney will slowly erode your siding’s integrity, which deforms it in the process.

Replacing the wooden siding is very expensive, so you have to be sure about having your chimney inspected every year so you can keep water from damaging it.

Condensation

If you lived through summer in some hot states, you know that it can be extremely uncomfortable. This is a dramatic change in heat difference which helps spot water damage in any chimney. The brick and mortar will exhibit signs of “sweating” that impact the brickwork throughout your entire home.

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