Spring is here, and for many people, that means spring cleaning. However, one area that is often neglected is the chimney and fireplace. Spring fireplace and chimney maintenance can prevent costly repairs, improve efficiency, and make it ready for the next cold season so you don’t have to scramble at the last minute when you want to build a fire. Here are our top tips on preparing your chimney and fireplace for spring.
Schedule a Professional Chimney Inspection and CleaningThe best way to ensure your chimney and fireplace are in tip-top shape after a long winter is to schedule a professional inspection and cleaning. Professionals have the training and expertise to thoroughly clean chimneys of creosote (a highly flammable substance) and debris and to identify potential problems that could lead to costly repairs down the road, like structural damage, liner damage, or loose bricks.
If you’ve not done it yet, now’s the time to clean out the remaining ashes and soot in the firebox. Make sure they’re completely cool before scooping them out and disposing of them. After getting rid of the ashes, vacuum the firebox and wipe down the surfaces with a damp cloth. If the fireplace has glass doors, use a fireplace glass cleaning or a vinegar-water solution to remove soot buildup and make the glass clear.
Chimney caps protect the chimney from rain, debris, and animals. During winter, heavy snow, winds, and sleet or falling branches may have damaged it. Check for signs of rust, loose fittings, or missing mesh screens. If the cap is damaged, replace it to prevent moisture and animals from getting in.
Animals love nesting in a warm chimney during winter. If you hear unusual sounds from the chimney, it could be a critter infestation. Again, this is where a professional comes in. Pros can safely remove these nests and other obstructions that could hamper your chimney’s performance.
Spring is the perfect time to give your chimney a good once over to check for issues like cracks or gaps in the masonry, loose or missing bricks, deteriorating mortar joints, or white staining (efflorescence), which indicates moisture damage.
Chimneys are exposed to harsh weather 24/7, and moisture damage is the number one cause of deterioration. Spring is the perfect time to tackle this problem by applying a waterproof sealant to the masonry to protect it against rain and humidity. Modern waterproofing products can last for years and extend your chimney’s lifespan.
Now that fireplace weather is gone, close the damper to prevent drafts, moisture, and pests from getting in. Closing the damper also keeps air from escaping up the chimney, which can help reduce the strain on your air conditioner.
If you have leftover firewood, store it in a dry, well-ventilated area off the ground to prevent rot and insects. Don’t stack it directly against the house because this can attract termites.
Improving ventilation can prevent your home from smelling like an ashtray. A blocked-off chimney can give off smoky or musty odors when the humidity increases. Crack a nearby window or put a bowl of baking soda or activated charcoal inside the firebox to absorb foul odors.
Plan Ahead for Next WinterSpring is the best time to take care of your chimney and fireplace maintenance because chimney professionals get busier as winter nears, which can make it difficult to schedule an appointment that’s convenient. Getting your chimney and fireplace ready in spring means you won’t have to scramble at the last minute, which could delay using your fireplace.
Call Chimney Solutions in Chattanooga now and let us get your fireplace and chimney in winter-ready shape with our expert cleaning, repair, and maintenance services.
