Explore These Essential Tips for Chimney Care
There are several reasons why the chimney needs to be taken care of regularly.
A roaring fireplace is great on cold winter nights. It creates a cozy atmosphere and infuses the room with much-needed warmth. However, the chimney might not last as long as it should without proper maintenance. There are several reasons why the chimney needs to be taken care of regularly. Let’s take a look at them here:
Fireplace damper
The fireplace damper is an essential part of the chimney. It prevents drafts from getting into the house when the fireplace is inactive. Doing so lowers the energy bills as the AC unit won’t have to work as hard to keep the room at a constant temperature. If the damper is broken or unable to close, the home will be uncomfortable, and the energy bills will probably be higher.
When the fireplace is in use, the damper needs to remain open. It lets the smoke out, keeping the home free of carbon monoxide. One of the essential aspects of chimney maintenance is ensuring that the fireplace damper is working. It needs to be able to shut and open when necessary.
Waterproofing
Rainwater can cause chimney damage, weakening the structure or leading to mold. This damage could also affect the walls of the house. That’s why it’s essential to make sure that the unit is waterproofed.
Ask an experienced technician to look at the chimney and inspect it for water damage. Then, they will apply sealant where necessary, preventing rain from getting into the home.
A chase cover is also a great addition to a prefabricated chimney. It allows smoke to escape while keeping the elements out. Unfortunately, some chase covers are made from galvanized steel, which is prone to rust. To prevent this, use a stainless steel or copper chase cover instead.
Sweep the chimney
Regardless of the type of fireplace used, it will need to be cleaned to keep the home safe. The frequency of cleaning may vary depending on how often it’s utilized. A good indicator that maintenance is required is if there’s about 1/8 inch of soot. This may be hard to determine, so setting up a regular maintenance schedule with a technician would be best. They can come in to sweep the chimney and inspect it for any signs of damage.
Get expert chimney maintenance services
Chimney inspection should always be factored into the home maintenance routine. Although chimneys tend to be forgotten until the winter, they could pose a risk all year round. For example, a broken damper may result in a higher energy bill or create an entrance for pests to get into the home. Therefore, it’s essential to consult an experienced technician who will regularly inspect the chimney.
Your Roofologist is a Plano-based licensed roofing contractor specializing in consumer protection in the residential and commercial roofing industry for the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We offer services such as roof inspections, roof repair and replacement, and other exterior and home improvement repairs. We transform homes with ten years of experience backed by excellent service, pride in our workmanship, and a warranty. Call us at (469)535-7852.
