Even during the summer, homeowners should think about their chimneys
Chimneys are synonymous with winter, which makes complete sense. If you live anywhere on the East Coast, you most likely won’t run your fireplace during the summer. However, some issues can still affect chimneys even during warmer seasons. Today we’ll be sharing the top three chimney issues that can occur during the summer.
Animal Infestation
Last week, discussed steps that you can take if an animal gets stuck inside of your chimney. We have also discussed how caps keep the critters out of your chimney. If you don’t have a secure cap, you can make this structure more susceptible to small animals. Small animals may indeed make your chimney their hangout spot. Some of these animals may even make this structure their nesting spot. Others may struggle to get out of your chimney, and the worst-case scenario may happen. If you notice that there is an animal infestation, give us a call. This issue is problematic because once your beloved fireplace is back up and running, an animal infestation can impede the flow of smoke. Another useful resource is your local animal control organization.
Debris Buildup
If you don’t have a secure chimney cap, this can result in debris obstruction. Flying leaves from a nearby tree and other debris such as twigs can end up in your chimney, impeding airflow when it’s time to rerun your fireplace. Do you own a wood-burning fireplace? There could be a lot of creosote stuck to the flue. Debris accumulation only makes this worse. However, there is good news. You can count on us for certified chimney inspections and cleanings. Because creosote is highly flammable, they are a danger to chimneys, you, your family, and your home. There is a reason why fire safety organizations stress that inspections should happen every year.
Water Damage
Recently, we have discussed how to handle water damage. In both the spring and summer, heavy rainstorms can cause problems for chimneys. Here is how rainstorms affect a few systems:
- Rainstorms can cause small cracks in bricks and mortar, because of water seeping into these areas.
- Flashing can become eroded over time.
- A chimney’s crown can crack and crumble
- While chimney caps last a long time, they too, can experience water damage
Luckily, all of these pieces can be fixed or replaced by us. Being prepared is never a bad idea. When you need your fireplace again, we want to ensure that your chimney is working optimally.
Don’t Be in Despair If Your Chimney Needs Repair
Champion Chimneys, Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded and insured chimney service company that has been serving customers in Baltimore County, Howard County, and Anne Arundel County, Maryland since 2001. Our team is trained and certified by Certified Chimney Professionals, Inc. (CCP, Inc.). Courteous service is our trademark, and our crews arrive on time in uniform, driving fully equipped trucks. We specialize in all aspects of your chimney system. Whether you need chimney and flue cleaning service or a full chimney rebuild or inspection, contact us at 443-Chimney today and let us fix all your chimney problems. Also, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.