Chimneys are an essential part of any house, and if they’re not maintained properly, they can cause a lot of damage. Around 25,000 chimney fires occur in the US every year.
Learn to spot the signs that tell you it’s time for a chimney inspection and protect your home and the lives of your loved ones before disaster sets in.
Check The Damper
If the damper is shut tightly and doesn’t open when pulled or pushed, this could indicate that there may be something blocking it or preventing its movement. Also, make sure the damper opens to both positions so that airflow isn’t impeded in any way.
Watch For Creosote Buildup
Creosote is a substance created by combustion that accumulates on the inner walls of a chimney over time and can eventually cause major damage if left unchecked. Creosote buildup often looks like black tar or soot deposits on the inner surfaces of the chimney.
Creosote can also cause wood-burning fireplaces to burst into flames. If you notice creosote buildup, it’s time to get a chimney inspection right away before it causes major structural damage.
Check For Rotten Or Cracked Masonry
A broken or crumbling mortar is a sign that something could be seriously wrong with your chimney and you should get a chimney inspection immediately. Cracked masonry is one of the most common problems in old chimneys, and it can gather moisture that will rot out the entire structure and make it unsafe for use.
Watch Out For Uneven Fireplace Flue
If one side of the fireplace is wider than the other, this is an indication that the flue may need to be completely dug up and replaced. This could be a sign of either a collapsed chimney or an improperly installed flue.
Look Out For High Heat Levels
If you notice high heat levels coming from your fireplace, it could mean that there’s a build-up of creosote in the chimney that’s blocking airflow to the firebox. The chimney needs to be inspected before things spread and cause much more damage.
Check For Damaged Fireplace Surrounds
Check the entire fireplace for any cracks, chips, or other damage. If you notice any imperfections in the fireplace itself underneath the mantel, this could be an indication that the chimney is shifting away from its foundation, which is a significant and costly problem.
If you spot these signs, it might be time to call the experts for a chimney inspection. At CT Chimney Repair, we offer one of the best chimney inspection services in Connecticut. We also offer chimney repair, chimney sweep, and chimney cleaning services.
Contact us to find out more.
