If a recent chimney inspection revealed that a sweeping is in order before starting off your burning season, you may be feeling a bit frustrated. Investing in any additional chimney maintenance takes time and money, but in the long run, getting it taken care of early on is always the better route to take. If you’re thinking of putting off your sweeping until a later date, we strongly urge you not to! Here’s why.
The Threatening Nature Of Creosote
As you light fires throughout the year a substance called creosote builds up inside of your chimney. Creosote comes in a few different forms (flaky, sticky, or hard/glazed), and all types are dangerous and flammable. If the creosote inside of your flue were to ignite, flames would quickly spread throughout your chimney, warping metal components, damaging your liner, and causing your masonry to crack, crumble, and break down.
The repair work needed after a chimney fire is costly and it takes quite a bit of time to complete. There is no question that scheduling affordable and routine maintenance before lighting any fires is always the better and easier route, and it ensures your family stays as safe as possible, as well.
Keep in mind, too, that chimney fires are typically quiet events. Usually, the flames burn slowly throughout your structure, leaving you unaware that any threats are even present. Many families simply continue using their system, not knowing that their chances of experiencing carbon monoxide leaks, house fires, smoke exposure, and more have increased dramatically.
All in all, it is well worth investing in an annual inspection, and if your chimney tech is recommending a sweeping, then it is definitely in your best interest to get it completed as soon as possible. Guarantee yourself a stress-free and cozy holiday season by investing in the care and attention your fireplace deserves! The Sweeps & Ladders team is happy and excited to help.
Clogs & Obstructions Must Be Avoided
Unfortunately, creosote isn’t the only thing to be wary of when it comes to your chimney. There could also be clogs or build-up present that will negatively affect airflow, leaving you vulnerable to gas leaks and smokey living spaces. A proper draft is vital when it comes to operating your fireplace as efficiently as possible, and if you have anything inside of your flue that isn’t meant to be there, you are bound to face problems throughout your burning season.
What kinds of things tend to work their way into your chimney? Well, we see a lot of nesting materials since your structure lends an ideal spot for birds and other critters to host their young. Unfortunately, these leaves, twigs, and similar items tend to be extremely flammable, putting both you and the animals at risk. It’s always best to remove them, then invest in preventative measures to keep the issue from recurring again down the line.
What we suggest after having these materials removed is to have a chimney cap installed if you have yet to do so. These devices are extremely effective at keeping countless creatures out, and they ensure no trash or excess debris gets blown into your chimney on those extra windy days. Along with this, they block rain and snow from entering your flue, and they are even known to help with downdrafts. To top it all off, they can easily stop any stray sparks or embers from landing on top of your house and starting any shingles or roofing materials on fire.
Chimney caps are an affordable and worthwhile investment that could prevent significant damage, so ask our team about installing yours today.
Always Hire A Qualified Team Of Experts
Ready to get this process going? With the holidays right around the corner, we can’t say we blame you! Just keep in mind that it’s important to hire a qualified team who will get the job done correctly. What indicates your sweep is gonna really know their stuff? Well, the length of time they’ve been in business says a lot! The Sweeps & Ladders crew has been servicing chimneys for over a decade now, so you can bet there isn’t much we haven’t seen.
Along with this, we have a long list of positive reviews showcasing our drive and desire to always put the customer first in every service we offer. We strive to keep neighborhoods in our service area as safe and as comfortable as possible, and as someone who served the county as a firefighter for 13 years, you can bet our owner Tommy Nelms takes his work very seriously.
Another important thing to keep in mind when searching for a team of professionals to help you out this fall is whether or not the crew is certified. Here at Sweeps & Ladders, we are CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps and CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technicians. Earning and renewing this certification requires training, studying, and a dedication to staying knowledgeable and up-to-date on it all. There’s no doubt that we know what we’re doing!
We are also certified with the NFI, accredited with the BBB, and members of the NCSG. We take what we do seriously!
Are you ready to get the care and attention you deserve? Then, we’re ready to offer it to you! Call today, and we can set something up.
Recent Comments