Chimney Maintenance for Homeowners

The best way to spend a cold winter night is cuddling up by the fire. The chimney is essential because it keeps smoke from entering the house. Keeping your chimney in good working order requires regular maintenance. Here are some tips for chimney maintenance.

Regularly Inspect and Clean Your Chimney

Your chimney should be cleaned and inspected at least once a year. Regular cleaning and inspection will help prevent chimney fires or carbon monoxide poisoning. A professional chimney inspection is essential. A top-to-bottom inspection is performed to check for damage or anomalies. With a proper examination, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure the safety of your family.

Invest in a Flue Liner

Heat exposure and corrosion are prevented by flue liners. Different types of liners are available, such as clay tiles. Since they are affordable and work well in open fireplaces, they are most common. A typical unit can cost as little as $10, plus installation fees. During a fire, however, the tiles are ineffective at absorbing and dispersing heat.

Stainless steel flue liners are another option for repairing or replacing chimneys. They are safer and more durable than other options. They are, however, more expensive. A lightweight, cement-like cast-in-place liner can also be used. The most important thing is to make sure it fits properly on your smokestack no matter what type you choose.

Add a Chimney Cap

Moisture, debris, and animals are kept out of the flue by the chimney cap. The chimney cap may also contain embers using spark guards. A vent without a cap is vulnerable to the elements, such as heavy rain or snowfall. Furthermore, leaves can block your flue, causing carbon monoxide to build up. 

Use the Right Wood

The only wood you should burn in your fireplace is seasoned wood. The wood of this type has been dried for a long time and is less than 20% moist. Moisture content determines how fast the fire burns and how much smoke is produced. Mold is also more likely to spread.

Inspect Your Bricks

You should check your chimney's bricks and mortar for signs of crumbling. Poor foundations can result in expensive repairs. The damaged bricks will need to be replaced, and the mortar will need to be repointed.

You will probably need to hire a specialist with experience in masonry and/or foundations to handle this. Ask your friends and family for referrals, do your research, and talk to contractors to find the right company.

Buy Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors provide safety for your family. Choosing a device that automatically contacts the fire department in case of an emergency is recommended. Carbon monoxide detectors should also be installed. Detecting carbon monoxide on your own can be difficult because it is odorless. Check your smoke detectors regularly and replace any old batteries.

Fire or smoke damage to your home? Call Restoration of Eldersburg today.