Fall brings the cool weather that sparks thoughts of sitting around your fireplace in front of a cozy fire. But fall is also the time for a chimney cleaning and inspection. Before you light that first fire of the season, take the time to invest in a good chimney sweeping service. You may not think of your chimney during the summer, but that is when birds and small animals find your chimney an inviting place to make nests or burrow. Your chimney can become full of twigs, leaves or even small animals. Even if there are no animals or leaves in your chimney, it is always a good practice to schedule a yearly fall cleaning of your chimney to clean it and make sure it is in good operating condition.
A good chimney sweeping service will include an inspection, a cleaning and if needed, repairs or the addition of a chimney cap. Chimney sweeping is needed to avoid chimney fires, to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and to ensure proper venting. Accumulation of a flammable substance called creosote is caused by soot and byproducts from burning. Even a quarter of an inch of this buildup can restrict airflow and cause smoke and gasses to back up into your home. This can be extremely dangerous and even deadly.
A good chimney sweep service should also include an examination of the foundation, firebox, attic and rooftop. Lightning strikes, cracks, moisture and excessive use can all cause problems in your chimney. A chimney professional can understand and assess the problems and offer remedies to fix the problems before they cause bigger problems.
Proper maintenance and monitoring of your chimney can ensure that you and your family can safely enjoy all of the beauty and benefits of a cozy fire in your fireplace. It is estimated that 20,000 or more home fires are caused by chimney fires each year. By making Fall the season for chimney sweeping, you can avoid being a victim of a preventable tragedy.