How Did the Creosote Buildup Happen?

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that they have creosote on the inside of the chimney. Several reasons can contribute to its formation.

• Using the wrong firewood. Picking the right fuel is a bit of an art. The use of green wood, which is a term that describes freshly cut pieces, frequently increases smoke production. Do it often enough, and it also produces the creosote buildup. In some cases, the use of popular artificial logs can contribute to the problem.
• Insufficient airflow. The fire does not get hot enough when the fireplace doors cut off airflow. Another culprit is a partially opened damper. Smoke gets trapped inside the chimney. In the process, it deposits creosote on the walls.
• Infrequent chimney inspections. If you do not use the fireplace a lot, consider an annual inspection. When it is a primary heat source, call the experts out twice a year. Failure to do so allows the creosote to build up, since it does not get cleaned out properly

To remove creosote from your chimney and decrease any risks of explosions or chimney fires, contact a chimney service in Los Angeles CA.

Water Damage on Your Chimney

To avoid the presence of efflorescence on the chimney and to avoid any problems with water damage, prevention is key. Ensuring that flashing is properly installed, the cap is in place and in good working shape and sealing any cracks or damage to the masonry will ensure water damage is kept at bay. Keeping the chimney clear of debris is also important to keep the chimney is safe working order.

Annual inspections by a chimney professional will ensure that any potential issues are located and fixed before they turn into something big. It's recommended that you go with a chimney service from Warminster PA, as they know how to handle water damage better than anyone else.

What is the White Stain on my Chimney?

Over time if you notice white staining on your chimney, you may think nothing of it and just assume that it's the signs of the chimney aging. However, if you do see a white residue on your chimney, you should be concerned as this is a sign of water damage. If left untreated, this will lead to excess damage and deterioration of the chimney. Water is the number one enemy of chimneys so it's important to combat any issues that may arise from water. Therefore, you shouldn't wait to get a Chimney Cleaning in York PA this fall.

Known as efflorescence, the white powder is created by soluble solutions moving through the chimney leaving behind salt residue. The residue then dries and becomes a powder substance that is found on the outside of stone, brick or cement block. Excess water will try to enter the structure by any means possible so the smallest crack will cause water to enter the chimney and cause damage. If a cap is missing or damaged, flashing is insufficient or there are cracks in the motor, water will enter and will create efflorescence. The deposits themselves are mostly cosmetic but are a big red flag indicating that there is a larger issue at hand.

History of Chimney Sweeping

Did you know that chimney sweeps have an interesting history in the home service industry? Chimney sweeps used to be considered extremely low class citizens, because the profession originated from orphans being forced to clean the chimneys of the upper class. As it developed into an industry of its own, chimney sweeps would dress in the fancy garb (which many sweeps still wear today) to appear as having higher social class.

If you need your chimney sweeped, which is a great idea before cold weather sets in, contact a company that specializes in chimney sweeping in Los Angeles CA today. Be sure to keep up with our blog for more information on all things chimney!

Fall Cleaning

Did you know that it's important to clean your chimney and dryer vents in the fall so that they're prepared for when winter rolls around? Snow, ice, and other debris can enter into your fireplace when it's more windy outside. Even more importantly, you use your chimney more frequently in the winter when it's cold out. Be sure to contact a professional in fireplace cleaning in Camp Hill PA today to schedule an inspection.

Keep up with our blog for more information on all things chimney!

How to Make the Chimney Draft Better

Sweeps understand that the chimney's primary function is to create a draft that assists with the combustion of the flammable materials you are burning. Next, it helps with moving the resulting smoke out. Sometimes, there are problems with this scenario.

• Do not burn green wood. It is not always the chimney that is at fault when smoke enters the room. Burning green wood or any wood with a high moisture content creates an unusual amount of smoke. Even if your chimney operates flawlessly, it may be no match for the moisture of the logs and the smoke it generates. Changing to different kindling can help.
• Obstructions send smoke back down. When was the last time that you invited a chimney sweep to perform a good cleaning? If it has been a while, there is a chance that some obstructions formed. Examples include birds' nests and soot buildup.
• Install rain caps to prevent downdrafts. Growing trees and tall buildings nearby can create wind conditions that force emerging smoke back down your chimney. Remedy this problem by installing rain or vacu-stack caps.

Call an expert in chimney cleaning in NYC to get the info you really need.