There should not be any cracks in your chimney that could catch a brush. A crack has the potential to spread flames to other structures of your home. Most homeowners choose to call in a chimney sweep, especially if the chimney has not been cleaned in a long time. Find a reputable chimney sweep company by asking friends and neighbors for their recommendations. Your damper helps control the flow of smoke and allows it to rise through the flue, up through the cap, and out into the air.

If a glaze appears in the flue in any amount, even less than 1/8”, the CSIA agrees that cleaning shouldn’t wait, because of how highly flammable the substance is. When you burn wood in the fireplace, there is always some amount of creosote that is deposited in the flue lining. But when you use certain types of wood, the buildup is far worse. For instance, untreated wood is full of moisture and doesn’t burn clean. Pine also causes creosote in the flue to build up rapidly, which makes it an undesirable type of wood to burn. Another cause of chimney blockage is the health of your flue liner.

Cut-away view of Chimney Starter on grill

Roofs are affected by the objects on or near it, like your chimney. We’ll work with you to put together a roofing package that you can live with – including our 50-year warranty. The tight, safe space of a chimney coupled with the added warmth from your home makes a great place for birds and squirrels to nest and store food.

Chimney Repair or Replacement: Making the Right Decision for Your Home

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When you throw them in a fireplace, they can float up the flue and ignite the creosote. Hire a professional to inspect this and sweep your chimney regularly.

Another common mechanical system that removes air from the house is a forced-air furnace. Leaky return ducts draw air from the basement or other areas they pass through. They help your fireplace draw, bringing in fresh air for fuel and pushing harmful smoke out of your home. All chimneys and fireplaces require routine annual maintenance and cleaning by an expert chimney sweep.

Frequently Asked Questions

There is no way to know exactly what your installation will cost without receiving free quotes from professional contractors in your area. Professionals recommend having your chimney inspected once per year or more if you suspect structural damage from bad weather. A chimney inspection costs an average of $435, though this number could go as low as $90 for a basic inspection. Electric fireplaces come in freestanding units and dual-sided designs. Most installations require a 120-volt outlet installation and do not require a chimney because there is no smoke to vent. Many homes suffer from back puffing, which occurs when the system does not have enough flue pressure to push smoke out of the chimney. The smoke flows back down the chimney into your home, releasing harmful carbon monoxide fumes and reducing your indoor air quality.

If you are uncertain about conducting an interior inspection, hiring a professional chimney sweep or chimney inspector is recommended. They have the expertise and tools to thoroughly assess the interior of your chimney and identify any issues that require attention. Leaning chimneys are often caused by foundation issues, ground settling, or water damage.