Don’t pinch pennies when it comes to your chimney and fireplace- It’s a matter of safety!
Tough times can call for extra care when considering expenses and many homeowners have decided to take on some DIY projects, repairs, and maintenance to save money. While spending money is a major concern for many people, you should be wary of what expenses you are cutting. It’s best not to be a “penny-pincher” when it comes to your chimney. Don’t skimp on chimney inspections and important chimney repairs just to save a little extra cash. A faulty chimney system can cause a lot of expensive damage and can even put your life in danger.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) which is a committee of experts on fireplace safety, your fireplace, chimney, & vents should be inspected once a year to ensure that they are functioning properly.
Cleaning a chimney is no small task. Many homeowners have attempted to clean their own chimney by following some DIY instructions they’ve found on the internet only to find out it is a big job that is best performed by professionals with the proper equipment and tools. A chimney is actually a complex system of components, and while the idea of cleaning a narrow passageway may seem simple, there are actually many potential problems which may require an expert to detect. For instance, a breach in the chimney lining, masonry deterioration, and a large amount of creosote buildup can become a fire hazard if not dealt with in a timely manner.
Your chimney is more than just a passageway for smoke and combustible products to be released into the atmosphere. It also acts as a shield, protecting your home from flames, heat, and toxic gases which can be extremely harmful to your home and your health. It takes the eye of an expert to detect small breaches in your chimney caused by faulty components that can have serious consequences.
While some chimney problems can be easily identified like efflorescence or cracked and spalling bricks, many issues can go undetected because they are located somewhere not easily seen. The homeowner’s lack of knowledge with chimney anatomy & deterioration can also lead to missed chimney problems. Hiring a certified chimney sweep qualified to both clean and inspect the chimney could ultimately prevent your home from going up in smoke.
Animals can build nests in your chimney causing a dangerous blockage that can affect chimney drafting.
Here are some less obvious issues that can be easily missed:
By taking care of your fireplace and chimney, you can actually save money. A well-kept fireplace & chimney system will perform efficiently and effectively which can help save on heating costs. A chimney that is maintenanced on a regular basis can also prevent more costly chimney repairs down the line. Chimney problems that are caught early are always a money-saving proposition. Contact our Certified Chimney Sweep technicians to inspect and service your chimney today.
Chimney Solutions, Inc.
1155 McFarland 400 Drive, Alpharetta GA 30004
Office 770-255-1300
