Here are some tips for preparing your fireplace for summer.
We are all looking forward to the upcoming warm weather and finally getting out of the house. The last thing you may be thinking about is maintaining your fireplace during the summer. But this is the perfect time to give your fireplace some extra attention.
Inspect Your Fireplace
A fireplace should be inspected yearly to ensure it works properly; summer is the best time to do so. Since you won’t be using your fireplace to heat your home, this gives the technician plenty of time to inspect it before it needs to be used again. Regular inspections allow technicians to check for potential problems in the fireplace and chimney before they become real dangers.
Another reason to get your chimney inspected in the summer is increased rain and animal activity. For example, your chimney cap can crack during the winter, leading to leaks when it rains. Moisture damage can damage your fireplace and be expensive to repair.
Whether you have a gas or wood-burning fireplace, there is a risk of animals building nests in the chimneys and causing further damage to other areas of your roof. You don’t want a bird or squirrel making it into your home via a damaged chimney cap!
If you have a gas fireplace, your technician can ensure that the gas lines are secure and that the fire’s exhaust is still venting properly outside the home. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a real risk, and preventative maintenance is the first step in ensuring that everyone in your family remains safe.
Deep Clean Your Fireplace
Summer is the perfect time to thoroughly clean your fireplace so it’s ready for winter. First, lay down a plastic tarp or drop cloth to protect the flooring or carpet. Use a chimney brush to remove the soot and creosote you can reach. For basic cleaning, use a good wire brush or heavy nylon brush with a strong cleaner solution, about a half cup, and a cup of bleach in a gallon of water. Baking soda and vinegar can be substituted for a cleaning solution.
Give Your Mantle a Makeover
When not using your fireplace, try to take advantage of the extra space on your mantle by adding some decorations. Place a decorative screen in front of the fireplace or place some faux flame candles in the firebox. A fireplace is a beautiful addition to your home and can be enjoyed in any season.
Schedule Your Chimney Cleaning from Champion Chimneys, Inc.
When you need a trusted company for your chimney inspection and chimney cleaning, you can trust our team. Champion Chimneys, Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured chimney service company that has served 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.). 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.