Fireplace Maintenance
A chimney professional can spot things that even a diligent homeowner could miss
As afternoons get shorter and the weather gets colder, both of us retreat indoors to the warmth of our homes. If you have a fireplace, fall is a good time to make sure the chimney and flue are in great working order. First, you should visually assess the chimney from the outside. Ensure that it is not leaning, chipped, cracked, corroded, stains, loose, or has any holes. If your chimney is exposed to the attic, make sure to check there too. Make sure you have a great chimney cap. You may need to install on or update your existing a single. This can reduce destruction caused to a chimney by water and wildlife… Rain and snow can enter an uncapped chimney and cause expansion disfigure. Inside the house, check the section around your chimney for any dampness or stains. These could be caused by faulty flashing around the chimney at the roofline, or by a disfigured flue liner. If you see signs of water around your chimney, call a professional. Check if the flue is sooty or in disrepair. Open the clean out door from the base of the flue, located either in your basement or outside the house… Using a small mirror and flashlight to see up the flue, look for buildup of soot and also any holes, cracks, or separations. Check the brickwork in your fireplace for wear and tear. Also don’t forget to check the damper. It should open and close easily. Chimney safety should be a high priority for every homeowner. With correct fireplace maintenance, your favorite source of heat can give you years of attractive service. A chimney professional can spot things that even a diligent homeowner could miss. Call a professional to do correct cleanings and safety checks as a area of your lake house maintenance routine.