Inspecting And Maintaining Your Chimney
Posted on: 10 February 2023
If your home has a fireplace, proper maintenance is needed to keep it safe. In addition to maintaining the hearth, the chimney also needs regular inspections. These inspections can identify serious problems that may pose a major threat to the house.
Flammable Accumulations
Using a fireplace can cause accumulations to gather in the chimney. In particular, creosote is a hazardous material that accumulates in wood-burning fireplace systems. The creosote is essentially residue and ash from the wood. Unfortunately, it can be highly flammable, which increases the risk of a chimney fire. A professional chimney inspection will identify if the chimney is developing these accumulations. If this problem develops in your chimney, a comprehensive cleaning can eliminate this flammable material.
Dangerous Obstructions
Using the fireplace when there are obstructions in the chimney can be a very dangerous mistake to make. If there are obstructions in the chimney, the smoke and fumes from the fire may not be able to escape. This can lead to them seeping into the interior living spaces of the house. Some chimney obstructions can be difficult to notice. An example may be a squirrel or bird nest built deep in the chimney. Having the chimney undergo a yearly inspection can alert you to these problems. Scheduling these inspections during the fall months ensures it is finished before the weather gets cold enough to use the fireplace.
Damage To The Chimney Cap
A chimney cap helps to keep animals and leaves out of this part of the fireplace system. Unfortunately, damage can occur due to intense storms or even animal activity. A professional inspection can determine whether these damages have happened to your chimney cap. Structural damage or warping can require replacing the chimney cap. Luckily, a replacement chimney cap is affordable, and installing it may only take a few minutes.
Structural Issues With The Lining
The chimney's lining is one of its most essential components. This lining will stop fumes from seeping into the home and shield the house from the smoke's heat. While a quality chimney lining can last for years, wear and tear can compromise it. Eventually, the need to replace the chimney liner will be unavoidable. A chimney inspection can identify the overall condition of the liner. When the chimney liner is compromised, you must avoid using the fireplace until a replacement is installed. Luckily, replacing a chimney liner may only require a few hours from the contractors. However, it may need a few days to cure before the fireplace can be used.
Contact a local home chimney inspection service to learn more.
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