Most people don’t think about their chimney until there is a problem. And by then, it’s often too late. Chimneys are an important part of your home, but they often go neglected until a serious issue arises. Don’t let that happen to you! In this blog post, we will discuss how to tell whether or not you need chimney cleaning services. We will also discuss what chimney cleaning services entail and what can happen if you neglect your chimney.
Reasons You May Need Chimney Cleaning Services
You may be thinking that as soon as the weather is cold enough, you can light a fire without worrying about your chimney’s cleanliness. However, that isn’t necessarily the best idea. When it comes to chimney maintenance, prevention is always better than cure. Here are some of the reasons that you may need chimney cleaning services:
Emergencies
An emergency is one of the biggest reasons people require chimney cleaning services. A chimney fire can be incredibly dangerous, and it is essential to have your chimney inspected regularly in order to prevent them. Before you light a fire to keep you warm, it’s important to remember that excessive buildup inside of your chimney can make it unusable until cleaned. Repairing one flue tile in your chimney can cost around $200; however, if more extensive damage occurs, the repair bills could easily reach the thousands. Some examples of these emergencies include,
- If you have recently had a chimney fire.
- If smoke enters the home when the fireplace is in use.
- If your carbon monoxide alarm keeps going off when you use the fireplace.
Non-Emergencies
However, chimney cleaning services shouldn’t only be sought in the aftermath of an emergency. Here are a few non-emergency reasons for calling a chimney sweeper.
- Your chimney requires an annual cleaning.
- Dead animals keep landing in your fireplace.
- The fire is not burning evenly or won’t stay lit.
Other Considerations
Apart from safety, there are a few other compelling reasons to clean your fireplace or chimney. For instance, if you plan to paint your mantelpiece and chimney area, it’s important that any debris or dust doesn’t end up spoiling the new look. Similarly, if you intend to remodel this section of your home soon, why not remove all dirt and grime so that you can use it as soon as possible? Selling your home? Make sure to keep the chimney clean for potential buyers. An unclean and unmaintained fireplace may reduce the value of your property, but having it cleaned will make you aware of any necessary repairs or replacements that need to be done beforehand.
Signs You Need Chimney Cleaning Services
While it’s good to understand the reasons behind having chimney cleaning services, it is even more important to understand signs that you so you can prevent any accidents from occuring. Keep an out for some of these signs!
Creosote Buildup
The biggest sign that you need chimney cleaning services is creosote buildup. Creosote is a black or brown residue that forms when the smoke from burning wood condenses and sticks to the inside of your chimney. While it’s normal for some creosote to accumulate, an excessive amount can be very dangerous as it increases the chances of a chimney fire. If you notice a thick, black buildup on the walls of your chimney, then it’s time to call in the professionals.
Chimney Flue Buildup
Another sign to watch for is an excessive debris buildup in the chimney flue. If you look up inside your chimney, you may be able to see if there are any leaves, sticks, or other materials stuck near the top. While this isn’t necessarily a fire hazard like creosote, it’s still important that it gets removed as it can block the exhaust from your fireplace and cause smoke to enter your home instead.
Obstructions
A third sign that you need chimney cleaning services is if there are any obstructions inside your chimney. This could be anything from birds nests to branches or even a dead animal (eww!). If you can see anything blocking the flow of smoke, then it’s important to call in professionals to remove the obstruction and clean up any residue left behind.
Dirty Damper
The damper is the part of your chimney that controls how much air flows up and down. If it’s covered in a thick layer of dust or soot, then it won’t be able to function properly anymore and will diminish the effectiveness of your fireplace. If you can see any buildup, it’s best to have a professional clean the damper for you.
Soot Accumulation
If you notice that soot is accumulating around the edges of your fireplace or on furniture in your home, then it’s likely that your chimney needs to be cleaned. Soot can contain hazardous materials as well as cause respiratory problems when inhaled, making it important to have it removed by a professional.
Excess Smoke
Has your fireplace is producing an excessive amount of smoke? If so, then this could mean that the chimney needs to be cleaned. A clogged or blocked chimney can cause smoke to back up into your home instead of going up and out. This can not only be a fire hazard, but also create health problems for those living in your home.
Bird or Animal Entry
If your chimney cap is worn or missing, animals and birds can easily enter; however it’s not as easy for them to escape. Your fireplace provides an ideal nesting place for them. It is sheltered from the elements and predators, and is even cozy and secluded. This can lead to droppings, feathers, or even a dead animal trapped inside your chimney – all of which must be removed promptly!
Let Our Team at Virginia Chimney & Roofing Handle Your Chimney Cleaning Services
If you are noticing signs that your chimney may be in need of a cleaning, contact our team today! We will inspect your chimney for any creosote buildup, obstructions, or soot accumulation and make sure to take care of any repairs or replacements that need to be done beforehand. With our experienced team and quality services, you can have peace of mind knowing that your chimney is safe and functional.
