Here are a few common signs of a blocked chimney.
Your chimney is designed to safely remove dangerous fire byproducts produced in the fireplace. If it gets clogged, it can’t properly perform this vital role. Birds’ nests, leaves, trash, and other debris can clog your chimney, making it dangerous to use. Soot and crumbling bricks are also hazardous; if the chimney’s flue is not kept clean, your home is at risk whenever you light the fireplace. Your home’s structure and age may also play a part in the overall health of your chimney. Determine if there is a blockage in your chimney or if it needs chimney flue repair by inspecting it yourself or hiring a professional maintenance company. Here are a few common signs of a blocked chimney.
Smoke Backing Up
When your chimney is blocked, you may notice a poor draft or smoke backing up into your home instead of being carried upward and out of the chimney. This can lead to a smoky and uncomfortable environment and potential health hazards from inhaling the smoke.
Strong Odors in the House
An obstructed chimney can cause foul odors to permeate your home. These odors may be musty, damp, or even reminiscent of decaying matter. If you notice unpleasant smells in your house, it’s essential to investigate the possibility of a chimney blockage.
Creosote Buildup
Creosote is a highly flammable tar-like substance that accumulates inside a chimney. The remains of burnt wood build up every time you use your fireplace. Creosote is also commonly used in pesticides to help protect wood against termites. Too much creosote buildup can ignite at any point, leading to an uncontrollable fire spreading throughout your house or across your roof. With increased creosote, you’ll likely see an increase in soot when burning a fire because soot is the first byproduct of burning wood. It can be seen floating around and will settle and gather in the hearth, creating a hazardous mess.
Animals in the Chimney
Blocked chimneys often become attractive nesting sites for animals such as birds, squirrels, or raccoons. If you notice animals or nesting materials like twigs, leaves, or debris in your chimney, it indicates an obstruction that needs to be addressed.
Knowing these signs can help you identify potential chimney obstructions early on and take appropriate action. Regular chimney inspections and cleanings are essential to prevent and address obstructions, ensuring your chimney and fireplace’s safe and efficient operation.
Call the Experts at Champion Chimneys for Chimney Sweeping Today!
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.