Why You Need A Holiday Chimney Cleaning & Inspection

With all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, please don’t neglect the annual maintenance of your fireplace and chimney. Chimney fires have occurred because homeowners tend to throw items in the fireplace that burn with excessively high flames. These high flames can ignite combustible buildup such as creosote or any other debris that may be obstructing your chimney. When making a fire, use only seasoned hardwood, such as hickory, maple, or oak. Avoid putting wrapping paper, cardboard boxes, or any other flammable items in the fireplace. A chimney fire can be devastating. If you hear snapping, cracking, or popping sounds, call 911 immediately to prevent further damage. 

Avoid any safety issues by calling Chimney Solutions and having your annual Chimney Cleaning and Inspection.

What To Expect from a Chimney Sweep?

• Clean out any excessive buildup of creosote in your chimney. Creosote is a highly combustible, tar-like byproduct that is formed when wood burns in a fireplace. This buildup needs to be removed periodically to ensure your fireplace operates safely and efficiently.
• Clearance. Our representative will verify that your chimney is clear of any combustible items. Whether you have a fireplace, wood or pellet stove, or gas logs, several areas need to be checked for safety. Being too close to a heat source is unsafe and can violate Fire Code NFPA 211. Our representative will ensure that all distances are recognized. 
• Water interference. Water is an unsightly danger. Water can seep into your chimney, and you may not realize the extent of the damage until it is far beyond repair. Water can also cause problems with the roof and walls of your home. When water damage is identified early enough, repair may cost less. Water can also cause rusting of metal components.
• Masonry Damage. Over time, bricks and mortar become brittle and crack. Water seeps in and can cause a freeze-thaw process, which allows cracks to grow. Over time, these cracks can cause structural damage.
• Experience is key. When selecting a chimney sweep, do your homework. This is just a short list of what to expect from an experienced chimney sweep. When searching for a chimney sweep, request credentials, inquire about ongoing training, and ask for referrals. The key to having a safe and effortless experience will depend on the technician’s expertise and knowledge.

While planning for all those holiday gatherings, be sure to contact Chimney Solutions and have your chimney inspected and cleaned. Start the holiday season with a clean, worry-free fireplace. Look forward to the times to come with your family and friends and enjoy the Holidays.

Chimney Solutions strives to bring the highest level of professional and technical expertise to our service area. The rewards of protecting property, life, health, and safety, as well as the education of ourselves, our customers, and others, fuel our quest for excellence. Though we offer premium brand-name chimney supplies, we also have our very own metal shop for custom-made caps and shrouds.