Tag Archive for: chimney cleaning services

A Chimney with ciimney damage on top of a house

Homebuyer Beware: Spot These 6 Signs of Chimney Damage Before You Buy

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Owning a home is a dream most people have and work towards. While shopping around for your ideal home, you must have a checklist to ensure you pick one that meets all your needs and is safe for you and your family.

Top on the house checklist you need to assess is the state of the chimney, as buying a home with a damaged chimney can lead to extra costs in terms of repair. Below are six signs of chimney damage to look out for before you buy.

Six Signs of Chimney Damage To Look Out For Before You Buy:

1. Deteriorated or Cracked Mortar Joints

Worn-out mortar joints vastly increase the level of moisture leaking into a chimney. During the cold seasons, especially winter, the water that seeps in will freeze, then expand, leading to more damage to the chimney.

Once the cracks form, they let heat and smoke escape in areas they shouldn’t. But the most significant risk is the probability of collapse when most of the bricks creating the chimney lose stability due to deep cracks.

Even when regularly maintained, mortar joints can still develop cracks from wear and tear. So patiently look at the chimney; if you observe spaces or gaps, the duct is damaged.

Sometimes, you won’t see the mortar joints from the exterior, but you can hire a professional to check the interior for you.

2. Smokey or Foul Smell

Creosote is the primary byproduct of burning wood, so if the previous homeowners used the fireplace frequently, chances are there is a lot of creosote clinging to the flue liner. You will realize such if you notice a smokey or foul smell indoors.

Unfortunately, creosote doesn’t only cause bad smells. Toxic gasses from burning wood require a clear pathway to clear safely. However, excess creosote will block these gases from clearing out, which affects your home’s air quality.

Plus, using a chimney with creosote buildup increases the chances of accidentally starting a house fire.

3. Spalling Bricks

Bricks are absorbent. So moisture will enter the brick masonry and slowly break it apart after a while. Similar to deteriorated mortar joints, this will be exasperated during the cold season, when water freezes inside these bricks.

Common causes of spalling include;

  • Use of low-quality components, particularly in prefabricated houses
  • Extreme weather
  • Old bricks
  • Using high-powered washers while cleaning the masonry

If considering an old home, thoroughly check for spalling bricks in the chimney. Such places have been exposed to the elements for an extended period; hence the bricks may be worn out

4. Worn-out Flashing

Chimney flashing refers to a metal sheet that acts as a watertight seal between the roof and the chimney. Flashing doesn’t easily get damaged, but after a long period of use, it will also get worn out.

If you notice rust in spots between the flashing and the roof, it indicates water damage. Water dripping into your home’s roof can lead to mold, wood rot, and other issues.

Corners are especially vulnerable to such rust, so check them thoroughly. You can repair slightly worn-out flashing. However, experts recommend getting a new one.

5. Paint and Wallpaper Damage Near the Chimney

When you notice paint or wallpaper peeling close to the chimney, it’s a sure sign that it is damaged. The mortar or brick in the interior may have cracked or chipped, or the flue liner could be faulty. 

In some instances, the problem could arise if the previous homeowners installed a gas fireplace and failed to buy the recommended flue liners.

6. Shaking Flue Tiles 

Inside a chimney, you will find a flue liner that directs air flow up and outside the house and protects the bricks from heat.

A faulty flue liner can cause a lot of harm, including poor air circulation inside the house, and the heat will damage the bricks.

If you see tiny slices of the flue liner in the firebox, it’s an indication of shaling complications.

Unfortunately, most liner problems aren’t easy to detect for an average homebuyer, as the ladder runs through the chimney. Hence, once you pick a house, you must inspect it using a certified and professional chimney sweep.

Professional Chimney Cleaning, Repair, and More in Northern Virginia

Chimney problems worsen over time and may cause severe damage to your home or life-threatening issues for you and your family. That’s why you must buy a home with a perfectly working chimney.

We at Sixpenny Chimney can do chimney inspections for you and carry out regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure it always works optimally. Call us for a quote today.

A smoking chimney on top of a residential house in northern virginia that would need chimney cleaning in different seasons.

Chimney Cleaning for Different Seasons: What You Need to Know & Do

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gdurinAccording to NFPA, the National Fire Protection Association, you must clean your chimney at least once a year for it to function efficiently and safely.

That’s because even though we have four seasons a year, most people only use chimneys during winter when temperatures are at all-time lows and it’s cold. In the summer and spring, many chimneys lie dormant.

Let’s look at all you need to know about chimney cleaning for different seasons, why it’s important and more. But first, we’ll explore why you need to clean your chimney in the first place.

Why Clean Your Chimney?

Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

When debris, twigs, dirt, and creosote accumulate inside a chimney, they prevent it from adequately releasing smoke and toxins from fires. As a result, the fire will produce carbon monoxide, which is severely toxic.

Since carbon monoxide is odorless and invisible, it can be challenging to assess if its level has exceeded normal standards.

Avoid Chimney Fires

The more you use your chimney, the more creosote accumulates inside it, and since it’s flammable, you should clean it regularly.

If you don’t do so, the build-up could damage the chimney lining and could lead to a fire breakout.

Enhance Heating Efficiency

When your chimney is clean, it facilitates an efficient and thorough burn. Therefore, your house will have improved warmth and a comfortable atmosphere for you and your family.

What’s the Best Time to Clean Chimneys?

Experts recommend cleaning your chimney during the warmer months, especially in early spring and late summer. As you rarely use the chimney at such times, and doing so ensures that it will operate optimally once the cold season sets in, thereby lowering the amount of money spent on heating.

What to Know About Cleaning Your Chimney

If you decide to handle the chimney cleaning personally, you must know your flue height before beginning, and you’ll need a safe way to reach the roof, like a sturdy ladder.

Additional cleaning tools you will require include a power drill or screwdriver to remove the animal guard or rain cap — personal protective equipment (PPE) for your face and eyes to protect against soot and ash. Plus, a wire brush with extensions.

If the fireplace is large enough and you can fit inside, clean the chimney from the bottom up if you don’t want to climb on the roof. However, it will be extremely messy. It would help if you bought tarps to keep the soot from your furniture and floors. A medium-sized dustpan to collect the debris and soot at the bottom is preferable.

Pro tip: Instead of going through all the cleaning hassle, you can hire a professional and let them do it for you. Doing so early in the summer is better, resulting in a quicker turnaround time, as most cleaners will only have a few bookings.

Tips for Keeping Your Chimney Clean Throughout the Seasons

Use Real Logs if Possible

Studies show artificial wood produces more gases, resulting in faster creosote build-up. So it’s better to use real logs when you can.

Ensure Your Fire “Breathes”

Oxygen fuels fires, and sufficient oxygen facilitates proper gas combustion and less creosote production (plus the fire will be hotter).

Keep the flue open to enable excess debris and chemicals to leave the chimney; if your fireplace has doors like glass panels, open them to facilitate healthy air flow for the fire.

Warm Your Flue

When cold air from the outside meets warm air from your fireplace, it creates an imbalance and increases creosote build-up.

You can combat this by rolling a paper torch (old newspapers also work well), lighting it up, and holding it under the chimney flue until the air daft feels warm. After which, you can start a log fire.

Mitigate Cleanup Using Chemicals

Creosote removal powder, when used properly, can prevent its build-up after one or two fires.

Burn Only Seasoned Dry Firewood

Logs with moisture produce less heat and more smoke. Ensure you only use wood ideal for burning by letting it dry 6 to 12 months in advance. Additionally, you can buy a moisture meter to check a log’s moisture level before placing it in the fire.

Install a Chimney Cap

Every chimney should have a cap; the appliance with a mesh keeps birds, animals, and moisture out. It also functions like a spark guard preventing hot embers from catching the roof.

Let the Professionals at Sixpenny in Northern Virginia Help

Even though you might not use your chimney every season, it must have a proper cleaning and be taken care of during the different seasons for it to be functional when you need it most during the winter.

We at Sixpenny Chimney, located in Northern Virginia, can professionally clean your chimney and carry out regular maintenance. Feel free to call us at 703-491-8697 and request service with us or contact us online.

A stack of wood in front of a proper fireplace and chimney serviced by a chimney professional

What to Ask a Chimney Professional Before Hiring Them

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Poorly maintained chimneys and fireplaces can cause all sorts of problems. Seemingly minor ash and debris in the fireplace can indicate the start of serious problems building up on chimney walls, such as toxic creosote and soot. Creosote is highly combustible and causes chimney fires. To stop this, specialist cleaning of chimneys and fireplaces is essential. So, here is a little advice on what to ask a chimney professional before hiring.

How Often Do Chimneys and Fireplaces Need Cleaning?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) urges homeowners to get their chimneys cleaned at least once a year. Heavily used wood-burning fireplaces may need chimney sweeping done more often. A hint that you may be overdue for chimney sweeping is strong fireplace smells, debris falling into the fireplace, or smoke blowing back into the room.

Assess Your Needs Before Calling Chimney Professionals

So that you know what to ask before hiring a chimney sweep, you should do a basic visual check first. Check outside to see whether there appears to be any damage around the chimney cap and the immediate roofing surround. Also, see if there are any signs of animals appearing to live within the chimney or on the cap. Bird’s nests are a prime example.

Then check inside around the fireplace. Debris and heavy soot deposits falling from the chimney walls can be signs of animal life or structural damage. The tell-tale black tar signs of creosote are another sign that cleaning is due. You should discuss these issues with chimney cleaning companies when you seek quotes from them.

What to Look for When Hiring Chimney Cleaners

Two of the most important things to look for are good customer reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations. If the organization fails in this area, it can indicate poor service. Asking friends and family about local chimney professionals is a good start. Online review sites may also prove helpful.

Once you’ve lined up two or three potential cleaners, you can compare their experience, rates, and availability. A checklist can be a useful tool to assess their services.

Your Checklist of Questions on What to Ask Before Hiring a Chimney Sweep

1.  Do you have experience with the type of fireplace and chimney I have?

Chimneys come in various shapes and sizes, so you’ll want to ensure the cleaner you hire has experience with your type of chimney.

2. How much will it cost to have my chimney and fireplace cleaned?

This is an essential what to ask before hiring a chimney sweep. You don’t want a nasty surprise when the bill is handed over. A good local company won’t hesitate to come to your property for a free quote.

3. My chimney is way overdue for a cleaning. Will it cost more to sweep?

Again, you don’t want any surprises here. If you’re upfront with them on how long it has been between sweeping and how heavily the fireplace is used, they may need to quote a little more. When they do their inspection, unanticipated problems may come to light. Ask them how they will deal with this type of scenario as well.

4. Do you have any discounts or promotions for first-time customers?

This is worth asking for. After all, they want your repeat business.

5. What if something goes wrong during the chimney cleaning process?

Check whether they are fully insured for any likely mishaps. Don’t just take their word for it—ask who their insurer is and get details of the process if any structural damage occurs.

6. Is your work guaranteed?

Check what their service guarantees cover, including how long they last.

7. Can you provide references from past clients?

If you’re the cautious type, it’s worth looking at a couple of their previous clients.

8. I work away from home. Can you provide a definite day and start time to do the work?

Is there anything more irritating than waiting around all day for tradespeople that don’t turn up? You will want to know that they are guaranteed to turn up when they say they will. And in case they do have to reschedule at short notice that they will let you know at least 24 hours beforehand.

Your Local Chimney Cleaning Professionals in Northern Virginia

Six Penny Chimney provides high-quality fireplace and chimney inspection and cleaning services. We also repair damage to concrete and brickwork and remove animal and insect pests. If you’re a local Northern Virginian, we will readily visit your property and give a free estimate.

We will happily guide you around what to look for when hiring chimney cleaners.

Avoid Chimney Cleaning Logs, logs burning in indoor fireplace

6 Reasons to Avoid Chimney Cleaning Logs & DIY Fireplace Care

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When money’s tight, homeowners look for savings, and cooling and heating costs are generally a significant component of the household budget. At such times considering DIY fireplace care can be tempting. Homeowners often think chimney cleaning logs will help reduce maintenance costs. When the logs are set in the fireplace and burnt, they reduce creosote, a significant culprit in chimney fires. But is this a false economy? And are there hidden dangers in this fireplace cleaning method? Here are six reasons to help explain why you should avoid chimney cleaning logs.

1.  Loose Creosote Goes Undetected

Chimney cleaning logs work by releasing chemicals into the fireplace and up through the flue as they burn. The cleaning compounds interact with creosote, helping loosen this flammable tarry substance from the walls of the chimney and fireplace. After a week or so, the creosote flakes off the chimney lining, falling into the fireplace where you can sweep it up.

The problem with this method is two-fold. First, many chimneys are not wholly vertical open stacks. Instead, chimneys may be constructed with elbows or bends and have other nooks and crannies within their structure. These areas within the chimney can allow ash, soot, and creosote to fall from the sides into small heaps that go undetected by the homeowner. These heaps then actually raise the risk of a creosote fire.

Secondly, chimney sweeping logs only work on relatively new creosote deposits. Called Stage I, this thin, flaky layer of creosote can be brushed or cleaned away without too much effort. Chimney cleaning logs cannot remove hardened creosote that has gone beyond Stage 1.

2. Why You Should Avoid Chimney Cleaning Logs for Built-up Creosote

Aged, hardened creosote is probably the number one reason to avoid using chimney cleaning logs. Don’t be lulled into a false sense of security that cleaning logs reduce Stage 2 and 3 creosote. In Stage 2, the creosote is becoming a solid tar, requiring hard scrubbing and possibly rotary tools to remove it.

In Stage 3, the creosote is so hard and thick that it is extremely difficult to remove and is a serious fire hazard. Professional chimney cleaners may have to use heavy-duty tools with chains or highly specialized chemical treatments to attempt the removal of the hardened tar-like substance. At worst, they may have to replace the chimney liner.

3. Are Chimney Cleaning Logs Dangerous?

Cleaning logs contain toxic chemicals. Therefore, they should be handled carefully, used strictly according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and kept a careful eye on while actually burning.

You should also exercise caution when removing the fallen ashes. These may still contain full-strength creosote, which is harmful to breathe in. In addition, the creosote is still highly flammable, so it must be carefully handled.

4. Fireplace Cleaning Requires Specialized Tools

Professional chimney sweeps use specialized fit-for-purpose tools, including wire chimney brushes and connectable long flexible cleaning rods. They also use cameras or inspection mirrors to identify where creosote has been collected. If you have to buy this equipment, up go your maintenance costs.

5. Obstructions and Damage

Unlike chimney sweeps, cleaning logs can’t check for obstructions such as bird and rodent nests within the chimney structure. Unfortunately, neither will inspection of the chimney’s physical structure occur so that you will be unaware of any damage and necessary repairs.

6. Experts Advise Chimneys Should be Professionally Cleaned Every Year

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) clearly states that professional chimney sweeps should be engaged every year to inspect solid fuel venting systems. Experts also caution that chimneys should be swept and repaired whenever needed.

National Fire Protection Association Standard 211 reiterates the requirement for yearly inspections for chimneys, fireplaces, and vents.

So are Chimney Cleaning Logs Worth Using?

Let’s look at where you could end up if you’ve opted for the DIY fireplace care option. Well;

  • You may have missed finding some of the creosote deposits.
  • You have to clean the filthy and toxic creosote out yourself.
  • You’re unlikely to have the right tools to clean the chimney thoroughly.
  • The cleaning chemicals from the log are toxic.
  • You can’t confirm the physical state of your fireplace and chimney, and
  • You’re going against the advice of experts in the fire prevention field.

Given these circumstances, perhaps you should avoid chimney cleaning logs and leave this dirty chore to the professionals.

Northern Virginia Chimney Sweeping and Fireplace Cleaning Services

The professional chimney cleaning services of Six Penny Chimney will leave you with peace of mind, knowing that your fireplace has been cleaned to exacting standards. We make life much easier for you than the DIY experience.

We’ve been providing Northern Virginia homeowners with chimney cleaning and repair services since 1980.