When bricks start to chip, crack, flake, and break down, this is called spalling. This is quite common as the bricks age. Eventually, the bricks will fall away from the structure if not repaired. 

What Causes Spalling Bricks?

Several factors may cause spalling bricks. Over time the aging of bricks will cause spalling. The weather causes spalling bricks. Whether you live deep in the south or well into the north you have to deal with the elements that come with such drastic weather conditions. Extreme heat and water infiltration to name a few. In the North, the effects of freezing and thawing water can be very detrimental to the life of bricks.

Spalling may start in a very small crack. Over time water infiltrates that small crack. If left alone and not repaired, the crack will continue to grow. Left too long it can become a devastating situation as it may damage the structure. The spalling bricks break down and start to fall out of the structure. Think of it as a game of Jenga. The bricks or blocks start to fall out and eventually, the structure collapses.   

Once spalling bricks are noticed it is important to get in touch with a professional chimney company such as Northeastern Chimney, Inc. 

How is Spalling Bricks Repaired?

• To repair spalling bricks, first, our technicians will remove the brick that has begun to see spalling. We scrape all the mortar away from the existing area. We make it clean so that a new brick can sit on the spot level. Dust and debris are brushed away so there is a perfect fit. 
• Next, it is important to choose a brick that is an exact fit. The color and texture are also very important when replacing spalling bricks. 
• Once the brick is chosen, the repair begins. Mortar is placed on all sides of the opening and the brick is inserted. 
• We make every effort to clean around the new brick 
• Water repellent may be added after the mortar has dried for extra protection.

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.

Northeastern Chimney, Inc. are here for you.

We can work around your schedule at your convenience. We service all of Hartford, Tolland, and Litchfield Counties. All our chimney technicians are CSIA certified. We are active in the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) and the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)

In addition, Northeastern Chimney, Inc. maintains a rigorous training schedule and a strict code of performance and ethics.

Our technicians have continued education. We believe in staying up to date in the leading circles of sweep education. We are members of the National Chimney Sweep Guild, and the Chimney Safety Institute of America, we take advantage of opportunities for ongoing training. Each year we send sweeps to the National Chimney Convention to learn the latest techniques, technologies, and strategies in sweeping and chimney maintenance to increase their level of expertise.

The post The Causes of Spalling Bricks appeared first on .

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

“Why are we talking about chimney leaks when it has been so dry?” “No need to worry about water leaks from the chimney, all looks good in the house so far.” These are two statements that have been going through everyone’s minds. No rain, no problems, so therefore there must be no issues! Is it best to wait until you have water stains on the ceiling of your home? Or until you hear the sound of dripping water in the fireplace?  

During the last rain storm in the Chicagoland area, it really made a mess. Many branches were down, leaves were scattered everywhere and some of that debris ended up in the chimney. The humidity was high, which many homeowners reported smells coming from the fireplace. Now you have expenses of damages to pay for instead of a standard chimney inspection which would have caught these problems ahead of time.

Why Do Homeowners Wait?

Some homeowners just simply forget there’s a fireplace in the home because they don’t use it. But does that mean it shouldn’t be swept & inspected? Just the opposite.

1. Homeowners need to realize that a chimney is used for more than the fireplace. The water heater and furnace/boiler appliances also use the chimney as a path to release toxins or gasses to the outside. This is important to the health of the home and your family. Getting an inspection by a certified chimney technician is the way to go.  
2. Some homeowners use a gas fireplace. Does that need to be swept & inspected? Yes, again. Just because it’s gas and you get to turn it off means everything is okay. The chimney flue still needs to be checked for wear and tear along with the exterior chimney for cracks, mortar repair and the chimney cap which keeps critters and debris out. And let’s not forget, #1 still applies here as well.
3. Woodburning fireplaces are a fan favorite. Many homeowners like to use their fireplace. It’s a passion to pick out the perfect wood for a beautiful smell, look and warmth that it provides. It is the centerpiece for the home. Many, not all, get their fireplace, chimney and flue swept & inspected each year as they know about creosote and how the build up can be flammable.

As most homes have a fireplace…or three, they all need to be inspected and cared for to keep the house safe.

Just Remember…

When a Superior Chimney technician comes out, we include the homeowner in every step of the process. We understand that getting on the roof, or looking into the flue is not something that a homeowner does…ever. That’s why we take pictures, share them with you and give you details about the health of the fireplace through the exterior chimney with pictures and a report. When our technicians get back to the office, we email the pictures to you so you have a record to refer to next time we come out to service your chimney.

Contact us today 877-244-6349

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

We’re heading in that time of year where homeowners are opting for hot chocolate over an iced tea. The sound of a crackling fireplace becomes more and more desirable as the cool nights settle in. Nothing is better than the sound of a warm, cozy fireplace. As you want to get the fireplace started, you’ll want to take a few steps to keeping the fireplace in “ready for use” shape. Let’s take a closer look.

Fireplace and Chimney Inspection

According to the Chimney Safety Institute, homeowners need to have their chimney and fireplace swept and inspected each year. This ensures not only a worthy place to start a fire, but also efficient. For instance, a heat shield can increase the heat in your home by 20%. Where else would that heat go? Out. Outside of your home and into the chilly air where it will not do any good. That 20% increase in heat can help reduce your energy bill saving you money.

Sweeping the Chimney

There are a few reasons to sweep the chimney. When the weather gets chilly, our little critter friends get cold. Just because they live year round outside, doesn’t mean they don’t get cold. And when they do, they are going to look for a nice warm place to stay. How about your chimney? No wind, nice and cozy, a perfect place to set up shop and sleep for the night. How do they get in? One of the best places is your exterior chimney when the chimney cap is missing or even loose. If you can move it, so can our little friends.

Don’t forget about debris! Wind and the changing of the seasons is a great way to sneak debris into the chimney. If it isn’t swept, then the animals and / or debris can be ignited by the spark of the fire and cause damage to your fireplace, chimney and home. Best not to take that chance!

Flue Damper and Heat Shield

One of the best ways to keep heat in your home and stop it from escaping is the damper and heat shield. We just discussed the importance of the heat shield, let’s talk about the damper. When the damper doesn’t work, it allows for heat to escape. Now this isn’t when the fireplace is ON, this is when the fireplace is not burning or OFF. The damper must be in good working order as the damper needs to be open when a fire is burning in the fireplace. The allows the smoke to leave the home and keep everyone from being smoked out (and dangerous fumes, of course.)

Checking for Damages

A fireplace and chimney inspection will work to identify any cracks in the fireplace firewalls as well as cracks on the exterior of the chimney, namely the chimney crown, mortar and any ‘spalling’ on the bricks. Any cracks can cause moisture to enter into the chimney system and encourage the deterioration process and damage. By getting the cracks identified and repaired, will keep any big repair bills at bay.

Contact Superior Chimney today and schedule your fireplace and chimney inspection. Call 877-244-6349.

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

Gas fireplaces have become more and more popular over the past several years. Millennials are coming of age. They are busy with their careers, buying their first homes, and raising a family. However, they don’t want the added tasks of caring for and maintaining a wood-burning fireplace. This is not to say that we all seek an easier way to enjoy life.

A fireplace is a must-have for many new homeowners. The cozy ambiance that it brings to a home is not to beat. A room with a fireplace is usually the focal point of a home. A gathering place. A gas fireplace is certainly easier to keep up, but it is not completely self-maintained.

For every fireplace, a professional inspection annually is a good idea. There are certain things that you can do as a homeowner.  The regular upkeep will keep your gas fireplace or insert running efficiently year after year. 

Fireplace Safety First

Before any fireplace maintenance, turn off the pilot and the gas. Wait about an hour as the gas exits the pipeline. Let the fireplace cool down.

Homeowner Maintenance

• Clean the glass doors. If the glass doors can be detached, you may do that. Use the manufacturer’s directions. Over time the glass dulls and may interfere with its pristine beauty. Dirty glass hinders the efficiency of the fireplace. It prevents the heater from working appropriately. Use a nonabrasive cleaner and a soft cloth.
• Clean the interior of the fireplace regularly. Dust and debris will collect in the fireplace. Thus, it is important to clean this regularly to keep the efficiency of the fireplace up. Take out the logs. Vacuum out the base of the fireplace. Vacuum the pilot component, blower, and burners. Use a soft damp cloth to wipe off the logs and the inner walls of the firebox. 
• Check ventilation regularly. Ventilation is important to prevent carbon monoxide gas buildup. Confirm that there is no blockage in the vent system. At times there may be blockage or nests that have gotten inside. Contact your professional chimney company to clean out the system. 
• Upgrade when needed. After years of use, the glass doors become dated and lose their efficiency. Several new gas fireplaces are safer and more efficient than the older versions. An upgrade may be a choice for you.

By keeping your gas fireplace in tip-top shape you will enjoy years of enjoyment. Cleaning out your fireplace is your first effort to keep an efficient fireplace. When it comes to the big jobs, contact Northeastern Chimney for a professional inspection. This is the time of year to secure your inspection. Call us before the season turns cold and the appointments are not readily available. 

Call the Chimney Professionals

Schedule your inspection or cleaning soon by calling Northeastern Chimney. We can clean your chimney no matter what bend or curve you have. We come with all the equipment needed for all sorts of chimneys. Our certified chimney technicians provide quality chimney sweep services including chimney repairs, chimney cleaning, and chimney rebuilding for residents in West Hartford, East Windsor, Farmington, Glastonbury, Wethersfield, Marlborough, Cromwell, and the surrounding Central Connecticut area. Contact us today!

The post Complete Guide to Gas Fireplace Maintenance appeared first on .

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

The most critical measure you can take to ensure your fireplace is safe is to schedule your annual chimney inspection and expert cleaning before you start the season’s first fire. Hiring a Certified chimney sweep ensures that your chimney, vents, and related heating appliances will be examined and cleaned according to NFPA industry standards.

It’s always wise that you hire a contractor, but if you have the skills, you can go ahead and inspect your chimney by yourself. When doing the inspection, you should focus on these:

Check the firebox

Look for cracks, gaps, or signs of wear in the firebox lining.

If the lining has deteriorated to the point where the steel body beneath it is visible, you must get it professionally repaired.

You should note that if you don’t do the replacement. the extra heat might accumulate inside your fireplace, causing lasting damage. You don’t want this, do you?

Inspect for masonry cracks.

Winter precipitation and temperatures below freezing can be severe on masonry chimneys. When the absorbed moisture in the bricks and mortar freezes, the solid ice crystals grow, causing the bricks to fracture, chip, crumble, and finally fall from the chimney.

As temperatures rise and the masonry thaws, more moisture fills the widening spaces. This freeze-thaw cycle occurs periodically during the winter season.

Because masonry damage increases the risk of fire and carbon monoxide exposure, it is critical to inspect the outside masonry on a regular basis for cracks, missing bricks, or gaps in the mortar joints. If you notice a problem, you should fix it before the next heating season.

Lookout for smoke stains

Smoke stains can indicate that your fireplace is not working properly. Stains on the ceiling could indicate smoke leaking from a breach between the hearth and the firebox. This is most likely due to the hearth settling, which is common in older homes.

When this settling occurs, sparks that fall into the gap can produce smoke, essentially acting as a secondary chimney. You’ll need a mason, a trained handyman, or a fireplace professional to repair this.

You may also see smoke stains above the fireplace opening. In this situation, the problem could be the flue damper, which is a mechanism with a hand-operated lever that allows you to control the airflow into the fireplace.

If the lever is damaged or caked with gunk, you may be unable to fully open or close the damper, allowing smoke to escape out of the fireplace. Again, a specialist can help you decide whether the mechanism is repairable or requires replacement.

Inspect the firebox

Using a flashlight, look into the fireplace and inspect the firebox for cracks, burning, or stains on the bricks. You also should examine for any moisture, clay, or masonry material on the firebox floor.

Then, with the damper open, direct your flashlight upward to inspect the flue liner for cracks, gaps, or dampness.

If you notice any moisture, cracks, stains, a white powdery substance or dark, tarry material (creosote), or a strong odor in the firebox or on the flue liner, schedule a professional chimney inspection before using the fireplace.

Ensure the grate is the right size.

When it comes to fireplace grates, bigger isn’t always better. According to the CSIA, a metal grate used to hold burning fuel should be no more than two-thirds the size of the fireplace aperture.

A large grate may tempt you to pile on too much wood, resulting in dangerously hot flames in your fireplace. If your grate is too huge, replace it with a smaller one that better suits your needs.

Confirm the chimney cap is secure.

A chimney cap is placed on top of a brick chimney to protect the flue from outside elements while releasing smoke and pollutants. If the chimney cap is damaged or missing, rainwater can enter the chimney and cause damage to the flue liner, firebox, and other components.

It can also let wildlife and debris into the chimney, causing a flue obstruction that pushes smoke, soot, and carbon monoxide gas out of the fireplace and into the living space.

You should confirm whether it’s present and secure. If not there, replace it. You should also tighten it if it is not safe enough.

Double-check the fire extinguisher.

Always keep track of where your fire extinguisher is and ensure that it is properly charged and ready to use.

It’s always wise to test the fire extinguisher and confirm that it’s in good working order. The last thing you want is to want to put off a fire and only realize that you can’t use it because it’s not working.

If you have never used a fire extinguisher, this is a good time to practice using it. You don’t want to fail to put off a fire because you don’t know how to use the extinguisher.

Test the damper

A properly functioning damper is required for a safe fireplace. When open, it permits smoke and dangerous gases to flow up the chimney and out of your home.

After the fire is completely out, close the damper to keep the colder outside air from mingling with the warmer indoor air.

The damper should open and close easily. If the damper isn’t working properly, makes noises, or there is any warping, cracking, or breaches in the airtight seal, contact a skilled chimney technician for repairs.

Parting shot

These are some of the areas you should focus on to confirm that your chimney is safe and in good working condition.

You don’t want to crawl onto your roof to see into the chimney. However, this does not mean you should ignore it. Getting your chimney inspected is one of the most critical things you can do before using your fireplace.

The biggest mistake homeowners make is to assume that their chimney is in good working order without inspecting it. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends a yearly chimney inspection Upper Marlboro by a competent specialist.

From the inspection report, you will know whether your chimney is safe for use. You will also know whether your unit needs cleaning or repair.

The post Chimney Inspection: How to Ensure Your Chimney Is Safe first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

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

As prices of just about everything keep going up, it’s always a good to find something that can help you save. We’re going to focus on a fireplace heat shield, which takes the heat generated from your fireplace and reflects the heat to go into your home instead of up and out of the home. By increasing the amount of heat to your home, your furnace will not turn on as much, saving on energy costs. What will that mean to you and your family expenses? Let’s first discuss what a fireplace heat shield is.

Why is a Fireplace Heat Shield Needed?

When you use your fireplace, whether it be woodburning or gas, heat is generated and the firebox temperatures can get quite high. This means that the back of the firebox goes from extreme temperatures of hot to cool or cold and back to hot again. The constant expansion and contraction causes the materials in the firebox firewalls to wear down where pieces of the backwall begin to crack and fall apart. This creates issues with the integrity of the firebox firewalls.

What Can a Heat Shield Do for Me?

Heat shields can be of big help in your home. Let’s take look at a few:

• Because the heat shield is at the back of the firebox, it reflects the heat and pushes it into your home increasing the heat by 20-40%. This in turn, keeps your home warm and reduces your heating bill.
• As we mentioned, the fireplace heat shield protects the back firewall and keeps the backwall away from the direct flame & heat. This protects the backwall from the constant erosion, thus reducing costly fireplace repairs.
• If you have a well-used, or an old fireplace, a heat shield can help to cover up old stains or ugliness of the firebox. It simply will look better.
• The fireplace heat shield will also help protect the back firewall from further deterioration which can lead to firewall compromise. All fireboxs need attention with use.  Tuckpointing around the fire-brick is a regular maintenance necessity.  If not done, or prevented with a heat reflective shield, a rebuild of the firebox firewall will be needed no time.

Fireplace heat shields are a great addition to your home this Fall and Winter season. The investment in it today will help to lower your heating bills with more heat going into your home instead of out. This can save you hundreds of dollars, money that you want to save or use to purchase the essentials for your family. Give us a call today to begin the chimney inspection process and install a fireplace heat shield. It’s vital to keep your family warm and safe this season. Contact us today at 877-244-6349.

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

Did you know that selling your home requires a Level II chimney inspection to be completed? It’s true! Per the National Fire Protection Association NFPA 211, a chimney inspection must be done prior to the transfer of property. It does make sense since the chimney can be used for heat in the fireplace whether it be woodburning or gas and the chimney is also used to release toxic fumes from the Furnace or boiler and water heater appliances. If you think about it, do you want to purchase potential issues that can cost you lots of unnecessary expenses? Probably not.

What Needs to be Completed for an NFPA 211?

When it comes to general home inspectors that come out to the home, they are to “inspect” the chimney and fireplace. However, general home inspectors are not credentialed in this area. Those that work with and inspect chimneys should be CSIA certified (Chimney Safety Institute of America) in order to know what exactly they are looking at and looking for. Few, if any, general home inspectors have this certification. Remember, the chimney system includes more than just the fireplace. It can also include the wood stove, pellet stove, furnace or boiler and water heater. This is why it is critical to have it professionally checked as gasses, such as carbon monoxide, can result in an unsafe environment and bring costly repairs.

Do I Only Need Inspections when Selling the Home?

No, regardless of if you use your fireplace or not, use gas versus woodburning, the NFPA 211 says, “Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances. Chimney cleanings, maintenance, and repairs shall be done if necessary.” This is for your protection of the home and family.  Especially for those, like us, that live in a geographic freeze thaw cycle (winter).

What’s Involved in a Chimney Inspection?

There are three levels to a chimney inspection.

Level 1: This is the most popular chimney inspection done in homes. If your appliance or your venting system has not changed and you plan to use your system as you have in the past, then a Level 1 inspection is a minimum requirement. A Level 1 inspection is for a chimney under continued service, under the same conditions, and with the continued use of the same appliance. In a Level 1 inspection, readily accessible** portions of the chimney exterior, interior and accessible* portions of the appliance and the chimney connection will be looked at. Your technician will be looking for the basic soundness of the chimney structure and flue as well as the basic appliance installation and connections. Contact us to get a level 1 inspection today.

Level 2: A level 2 inspection is required when selling a property. A Level 2 inspection is required when any changes are made to the system. Changes can include a change in the fuel type, changes to the shape of, or material in, the flue (i.e. relining), or the replacement or addition of an appliance of a dissimilar type, input rating or efficiency. Additionally, a Level 2 inspection is required upon the sale or transfer of a property or after an operation malfunction or external event that is likely to have caused damage to the chimney. Building fires, chimney fires, seismic events as well as weather events (tornado) are all indicators that this level of inspection is warranted. A Level 2 inspection is a more in-depth inspection than a Level 1 inspection.  A Level 2 inspection includes everything in a Level 1 inspection.  It will address proper clearances from combustibles in accessible locations.  There are no specialty tools (i.e. demolition equipment) required to open doors, panels or coverings in performing a Level 2 inspection. No removal or destruction of permanently attached portions of the chimney or building structure or finish shall be required by a Level 2 inspection.  Contact Superior Chimney if you are moving or have recently moved into a new home or townhome with a fireplace. Get it swept and inspected to ensure your home is in good working order.

Level 3: A level 3 inspection is necessary when a hazard may be present and concealed areas need to be reached. A Level 3 inspection includes all the areas and items in a Level 1 and a Level 2 inspection, as well as the removal of certain components of the building or chimney where necessary. Removal of components (i.e., chimney crown, interior chimney wall, siding, etc.) shall be required only when necessary to gain access to areas that are the subject of the inspection. When serious hazards are suspected, a Level 3 inspection may well be required to determine the condition of the chimney system.  Hopefully, you will never need this level of inspection. But it is good to know that Superior Chimney certified technicians can handle the severity of a level 3.

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

Here we are again, on the cusp of Pumpkin Spice season with cooler mornings leading to warm afternoons. As we move through this summer season, we’ve noticed a recurring trend of advanced chemical cleanings needed more frequently rather than your standard sweepings.

Many of our customers, even those who have kept up with their annual chimney sweepings, are experiencing unprecedented creosote buildup.

This alarming trend highlights the need for greater awareness of how creosote forms and why regular chimney maintenance is essential—even if you’re not a heavy fireplace user.

How Creosote is Formed

Creosote accumulates in your chimney due to a combination of three key factors: time, temperature, and turbulence (the Three Ts).

Time

This year, the warmer winter has played a significant role in how creosote is formed.  An updraft is created by the temperature differential between cold outside air and warm flue temperature.  When the temperature difference is marginal, the draft is negatively affected.   The slow draw increases the residence time of the smoke, leading to more creosote deposits forming on the internal flue walls.

Temperature

Long burn smoldering fires produce a lot of creosote, while small hot fires result in the most efficient burn.  In the past, slow burn fires were common with the method referred to “dampering down”.  This has since been refuted and is no longer viewed as an acceptable practice due to the increased risk in chimney fires.

Turbulence

The more offsets or bends a venting system has, the more resistance to flow there is.  Friction will always exist between moving flue gases and the passageway, but the more obstacles there are to maneuver, the longer the residence time.

Why Sweepings Are Crucial

Because there are so many factors that contribute to creosote buildup, even if you don’t use your fireplace frequently, you can still develop enough creosote to pose a serious fire hazard. Regular inspections and sweepings help mitigate the risk and ensures your chimney operates safely and efficiently.

Addressing Moisture Concerns in Firewood

When we find excessive creosote, one of the first concerns we address with homeowners is the moisture content of their firewood. Ideally, firewood should have a moisture reading of 15% or lower. However, many people are unaware that moisture readings taken from the surface of the wood can be misleading. It’s crucial to split the wood and measure the internal moisture, as we’ve found that even firewood advertised as “low moisture” can have internal readings of 25% or more.

By staying informed and proactive, you can keep your chimney safe and your home warm and cozy throughout the year. If you haven’t scheduled your annual sweeping or are concerned about creosote buildup, now is the time to act.

The post Don’t Ignore This Summer Chimney Warning: The Surprising Cause of Creosote Buildup appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

As the seasons change and the chill of autumn approaches, many homeowners start to think about preparing their homes for the colder months. One crucial aspect of this preparation is ensuring that your fireplace and chimney are in good working order. Scheduling a cleaning and inspection during the spring or summer months is a strategic choice that can set you up for a safe and cozy winter. Here’s why this timing is optimal, how often you should have your fireplace and chimney serviced, and the importance of hiring a certified chimney professional.

Why Spring to Fall is the Best Time

The primary advantage of scheduling your fireplace and chimney maintenance between spring and fall is preparation. By addressing any potential issues during these warmer months, you ensure that your fireplace is ready for use when the first cold snap arrives. Waiting until winter to schedule a service can be risky—if your fireplace or chimney needs repairs or a thorough cleaning, you might face delays and uncomfortable waiting times. By proactively scheduling in the off-season, you avoid the winter rush and guarantee that everything will be in top shape for the colder weather.

Additionally, chimney companies experience lower demand in the spring and summer. Many homeowners neglect to schedule maintenance until they need to use their fireplace, creating a peak season for chimney services in the fall and early winter. By booking your appointment in the spring or summer, you benefit from more flexible scheduling options and less waiting time. This ensures you have ample opportunity to address any issues thoroughly and at your convenience.

How Often Should You Have Your Fireplace and Chimney Inspected and Cleaned?

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), it is essential to have your fireplace and chimney inspected and cleaned at least once a year. This annual inspection and cleaning is crucial for identifying any potential hazards, such as creosote buildup, blockages, leaks (water or even gas) or structural issues that could pose safety risks. Creosote, a byproduct of burning wood, can accumulate on the interior walls of the chimney and is highly flammable. Regular inspections help prevent dangerous chimney fires by ensuring that any dangerous buildup is removed.

The NFPA also recommends that chimneys be cleaned if there is a buildup of more than 1/8 inch of creosote or if the inspection reveals a significant amount of debris. This is especially important if you use your fireplace frequently or burn unseasoned wood, which can lead to increased creosote accumulation.

The Importance of Hiring a Certified Chimney Sweep

When it comes to maintaining your fireplace and chimney, it’s crucial to hire a certified professional. Certified chimney sweeps have undergone rigorous training and have the expertise needed to conduct thorough inspections and cleanings. They are knowledgeable about the latest safety standards and best practices, ensuring that your chimney is serviced correctly.

Certifications from organizations such as the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) or the National Fireplace Institute (NFI) are indicators of a professional’s credibility and skill. A certified chimney sweep will not only perform a detailed inspection and cleaning but also provide valuable advice on how to maintain your fireplace throughout the year.

In conclusion, scheduling your fireplace and chimney maintenance from spring to fall is a proactive way to ensure you’re prepared for the colder months. By taking advantage of the off-season for scheduling, you avoid the winter rush and have ample time to address any issues. Remember to adhere to the NFPA’s recommendations for annual inspections and cleanings, and always hire a certified professional to ensure the safety and efficiency of your fireplace. Preparing ahead of time will help you enjoy a safe, warm, and cozy winter season.

The post Beat the Winter Rush: Tips on When to Schedule Your Fireplace and Chimney Cleaning first appeared on Southern Chimneys.

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

Maintaining the safety and efficiency of your commercial property is crucial. One component that is often overlooked, but is no less critical, is the condition of your chimney. A well-maintained chimney that is swept regularly is essential to preventing potential hazards and ensuring compliance with local regulations. But how often should you book your commercial chimney maintenance?

At Best Chimney Services, your commercial chimney’s condition is our top priority. Our team of chimney technicians is dedicated to offering knowledgeable, tailored commercial chimney services that’ll fit your chimney’s needs. If you can’t remember the last time you got a commercial chimney inspected, then it’s most likely time to book one. Schedule an evaluation with us today, or learn about how often you should book one, below.

Understanding the Importance of Regular Chimney Maintenance

Commercial chimneys experience more frequent use compared to residential ones, especially if your business involves cooking, heating, or industrial processes. Regular maintenance is crucial to remove creosote buildup, soot, and debris that can lead to dangerous venting issues and inefficient operation. A maintained stack ensures better airflow, reduces the risk of carbon monoxide and gas leakage, and prolongs the lifespan of your chimney and associated systems.

How Often Should You Book a Commercial Chimney Inspection?

Well, it depends… At a minimum, a commercial chimney should be inspected at least once a year. However, if the chimney is being used frequently because it’s helping to operate a restaurant, cafe, or manufacturing facility, for instance, then it’ll require sweeping every 3-6 months to manage excessive use. It is also possible that there are local regulations in your town/city required by your fire department or building codes. Make sure to check those regulations in case they differ from your equipment manufacturer.

Signs that Your Chimney Needs Service Before its Annual Appointment

There are some evident signs to look out for that will let you know you need a commercial chimney sweeping as soon as possible, including:

Increased Smoke back into Building

If you begin to notice smoke backing up into your commercial building or surrounding areas, it could be a sign that there is something obstructing or partially blocking the chimney. Book a commercial evaluation to check for blockages within the structure.

Dark Smoke Exiting the Stack

When the steam or smoke changes from light to dark, it is a clear and obvious sign of a venting issue.  During an evaluation, our chimney technicians will be checking for creosote buildup, animal intrusions and the integrity of the interior flue walls within the chimney structure and corresponding areas.  A chimney inspection is imperative to help reduce puff backs, carbon monoxide spillage and heat/hot water shut downs in the future.  

Heating Equipment Problems

Having an issue with heating equipment within a boiler room?  It’s not necessarily a boiler malfunction, but could be a venting issue.  It doesn’t matter if the heating equipment is new or old, venting issues cause interruptions with providing heat/hot water, and overfiring creating costly fuel consumption. 

Find a Professional 

To ensure your chimney stack is compliant with industry standards, it’s best to hire a certified chimney technician. Look for professionals with industry certifications and good reviews. Schedule regular inspections in advance so that you don’t risk the chance of forgetting.

Call Best Chimney Services for Your Commercial Chimney Sweeping 

Investing in regular chimney maintenance is vital to keeping your chimney, and your building, in safe working condition. Booking regular inspections, at least once a year, will help you maintain its condition and avoid unsafe, costly problems. If you’re unsure how well your chimney is operating and how much creosote could be building up, give us a call today and we’ll make sure you’re getting the regular maintenance it deserves.

The post How Often Should You Book Your Commercial Chimney Inspected? appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.