When thinking about home maintenance, common things that come to mind are cleaning and inspecting plumbing systems, electric systems, heater, appliances, and more. However, one crucial thing to consider is chimney cleaning. Being in the industry for several years, we’ve realized that there are several myths and misconceptions associated with the subject.

Lucky for you, we’ve debunked some of the most common chimney cleaning myths, so your chimney always stays in the best condition.

Myth 1: You Can Clean The Chimney By Starting a Fire 

What most people believe is that starting a contained fire can help remove the buildup inside the chimneys. This is highly dangerous and shouldn’t be tried in any circumstances. The Chimney Safety Institute of America states that chimney fires can lead to an explosion as the flames shoot out of the chimney. The excessive heat causes the flue to warp and even leads to cracks in the masonry and overall roof damage.

Myth 2: Soft Woods Result in Excessive Creosote

Another common myth that homeowners believe in Connecticut is that softwoods like pine can result in excess creosote. The logic they place behind this is that softer wood degrades quickly and efficiently, which leaves behind creosote.

However, this isn’t true. Although pine and other softwoods deposit creosote, they don’t do this in excess. Whatever kind of wood you have in the fireplace, it’s essential to keep an eye on the space for creosote accumulation. Ignoring this buildup can lead to a potential fire hazard for the entire house.

a white painted house with a chimney

Myth 3: You Can Clean The Chimney Yourself By Watching Videos Online 

Although we are in a DIY era, and you’ll find step-by-step instructions for almost anything, certain things should be left for the professionals. Cleaning chimneys requires expertise and experience. Professionals come equipped with industry-standard proper tools and equipment to ensure the job is done well. Your chimney can contain 5-gallon containers worth of creosote.

Following a video online may seem easy and an effective way to save on money, but you can end up doing more harm than good. It’s best to call in a trusted professional so that they can inspect any potential problems and clean your chimney safely and quickly.

Reliable Chimney Cleaning Services In CT

Looking for a professional chimney cleaning service in CT? Look no further, CT Chimney Repair has got you covered. We’re a leading name in Connecticut and helped several homeowners clean their chimneys in no time. We offer extensive services like chimney repair, chimney liners, and masonry services in CT. Get in touch with us today to learn more.