Frequently Asked Questions
When should I be cleaning my chimney?
Chimneys are suggested by the NFPA to be inspected every year, even if not being used. It is crucial to check them when they're not being used since they are a building that is connected to your home and take on the damage of weather.
What's wrong with my fireplace?
Fireplaces can smoke due to various reasons, including unseasoned or wet blocks or wood inside the flu, draft issues, or insufficient insulation of the fireplace, which can be frequent on fireplaces with exteriors. The flu lining can be damaged, and flu tiles made of clay tend to begin to break down after 30-40 years following the installation of a new chimney.
How long will the chimney cleaning process take?
A thorough chimney cleaning can last anywhere from about 45 minutes to one and a half hours. It can differ from house to house according to how big the residence and the location that the chimney is situated in. The first step is an efficient chimney cleaning, followed by a thorough inspection of the chimney and fireplace structure, both inside and outside of the house.
Do logs of cleaning really work?
Cleaning logs can be a fantastic option to use between chimney cleanings. However, they should not be used to replace an extensive sweep and inspection.
How do you tell if your flue is blocked?
It's hard to know when your chimney is blocked. If you do not feel any air pulling as you move your damper, it's recommended to schedule the camera for an inspection.
Should I waterproof my chimney?
The waterproofing method is a great tool to use if your sweep recommends after you can be sure you have had the chimney thoroughly inspected and the water has stopped, it should be applied to a clean chimney and should not be used as a "first measure" to fixing any problem
What is the cause of chimney leaks?
Chimney leaks typically result from the chimney flashing being removed, cracks in the mortar or bricks that make up the structure, and the chimney not being properly sealed when it comes into contact with the siding.
Why is my fireplace smelling?
Chimneys may smell for various reasons. The two most commonly cited reasons are creosote accumulation or water intrusion through the roof. It is essential to keep in mind chimneys are vents that let air flow through them. The negative pressure of your home could allow the dirty air to breathe.
How to tell if your chimney is open?
The most common way to tell is to check the throat damper to make sure the damper is closed; that is located directly above where your firebox is in the home. Also look at the top of your chimney to check and see if there is a silver metal cap on it.