Is your Chicagoland fireplace ready for the upcoming cold season? At Capital Chimney Corp, we know that nothing beats sitting back in front of a crackling fire, with a hot drink in hand, surrounded by friends or loved ones. But before you get too settled down into that warm winter fantasy, take a moment to go through this list and make an appointment to get your chimney prepared so that you can enjoy the upcoming fireplace season safely.
- Chimney Cap Inspection & Replacement
- Chimney Cleaning
- Fireplace Cleaning
- Chimney Liner Repair
- Chimney Repair
Chimney Cap Inspection
The outside cap is the first line of defense against debris, pests, and precipitation, all of which can wreak havoc on your fireplace safety system. Falling leaves and rodent or bird nests can clog up your damper, creating a big fire hazard.
Moisture from rain and snow can seep into bricks, causing them to crack and fail or develop rot or mold. Inspecting and replacing a damaged chimney cap promptly is vital to protecting your home against these hazards.
Chimney Cleaning
A chimney sweep will remove built-up creosote, soot, and debris from your firebox, damper, liner, and the rest of your system. Creosote is a hazardous, flammable substance that builds up when you burn wood.
If you use your fireplace regularly, you should have it professionally cleaned once a year, at a bare minimum. It’s a good idea to schedule the cleaning as part of your annual chimney inspection and maintenance service.
Fireplace Cleaning
Again, fireplaces need to be cleaned professionally at least once a year. It makes sense to have this done at the same time as your annual sweep. If you have a wood-burning fireplace and use it regularly, you should clean the box or insert by removing ashes and debris weekly or monthly, depending on how frequently you use it. Gas fireplaces also require professional cleaning at least once a year.
Chimney Liner Repair
A flue liner is a key part of fireplace safety because it helps your flue move the products of combustion (particulates and dangerous gases) up and out of your house. It also protects your chimney walls from heat damage. Damaged flue liners can be repaired or replaced as part of your annual service.
Other Chimney & Fireplace Repairs
Your annual sweep and heating system checkup may also uncover other types of damage, such as masonry issues, problems with your damper, and other fireplace components. Ignoring chimney damage can lead to tragedy, so don’t put off repairs until the following season.
Schedule Your Chicago Chimney Inspection
Don’t let needed repairs put a damper on your holiday fun. Get ready well before winter arrives. Call Capital Chimney Corp today and schedule your annual Chicago chimney sweep and inspection service.
