In order to maintain the integrity of your chimney and prevent costly repairs, it is crucial to perform regular cleaning. Chimneys regularly build up soot and creosote, which can restrict airflow, lead to dangerous chimney fires, and cause a backup of smoke. With how affordable a chimney cleaning can be, there is no reason not to perform one regularly. Let’s take a closer look at all of the benefits that a chimney cleaning can offer.
Avoiding a Level 3 Buildup of Creosote
Creosote is a black tarlike substance that can cling to the inside of your chimney when you burn wood. This builds up particularly quickly when the wood has a higher moisture content. When a high concentration of creosote begins to build up inside a chimney, it can often be detected by a musty and smokey odor emanating from the chimney.
As creosote builds up, it tends to collect faster and faster as airflow becomes more restricted, leading to a colder fire which allows it to collect more easily. This is a very bad thing because the more creosote builds up, the more difficult and costly it becomes to remove.
Level 1 creosote generally looks like powder-like soot that can easily be removed with a brush. Level 2 generally looks more like hard black flakes, which can generally be removed either with a brush or other mechanical means. However, level 3 generally appears like a thick black tar glazed onto the inside of your chimney, which can be extremely difficult to remove. Fortunately, regular cleaning can avoid the situation getting this far at all.
Confirm the Presence of a Chimney Cap
Generally, when you have your chimney cleaned, the cleaning company will check to see if a chimney cap is present. If there is no chimney cap, they will likely recommend installing one. A chimney cap has a lot of advantages, such as keeping snow and rain out of your chimney, thus helping to prevent damage not only to your chimney but possibly the inside of your house as well, and if your chimney cap includes wire mesh, stopping animals from building nests in your chimney.
If you have a chimney cap, the worker will check its condition and size. They will also make sure it is positioned correctly and clear the mesh screen or any obstructions.
Check for Damage
In addition to cleaning your chimney, a technician will look for any damage to your chimney. It is best to have your chimney checked for damage once a year. Even if your chimney isn’t used, it will still deteriorate over time. During the cleaning, a technician will look for any signs of damage, such as crumbling mortar, spalling brick, or cracks that may need to be repaired. Additionally, during the cleaning, fissures in the flue tiles or chimney crown will be noted so that you can have them repaired. Photographs of any damage will likely be taken so you can see any damages that will need repair. It is a good idea to have any necessary repairs done quickly, as the longer you wait, the more costly repairs are likely to be.
Clear Any Blockages
Blockages can sometimes happen even in chimneys that are not used. This is especially true if you don’t have a chimney cap that includes a wire mesh. Animals can make nests in your chimney, which can create blockages. Also, it’s possible that an animal could get stuck in your chimney and die, creating a health hazard in addition to a fire hazard. Falling leaves can also build up inside the chimney creating blockages. If you have your chimney cleaned yearly, any blockages will be removed, thus reducing the risk of a fire.
Final Thoughts
Regular chimney cleaning is critical to ensuring your chimney remains clear, safe, and efficient. By regularly cleaning your chimney, you can not only ensure that it remains safe to use but prevent costlier cleaning and repairs down the road. So make sure that your chimney is up to date with its cleaning.
Contact Us
If your chimney is in need of repair or inspection, then contact North Shore Roofing. Our experienced team is waiting to help you with all of your chimney and roofing needs. Call us at (978) 977-3816 and connect with us on Facebook.
