As you’re getting your To-Do list together this spring, don’t forget about your chimney. Just as you have periodic maintenance appointments for your cars, appliances, and even your health, you should schedule annual maintenance for your chimney. Spring is the best time for many reasons.
Avoid Water Damage this Spring
Your chimney might have winter damage that you’re unaware of. If there are even minor cracks or damaged areas to allow water into the chimney system, they will only worsen. Spring brings storms and heavy rainfall that can penetrate the chimney system. When water mingles with soot and creosote it creates a corrosive compound that can damage the flue liner and masonry.
Avoid Foul Odors During Warm Weather
When you complete your spring TO-DO list and your home is fresh and clean, the last thing you want is to experience a stinking chimney and fireplace. If you allow your chimney to set through spring with soot and creosote coated over its interior surfaces, it can result in nasty odors. Even a healthy and waterproofed chimney can become stinky as the weather warms.
Allow Time for Necessary Repairs
By scheduling your chimney sweep and inspection during the spring you become aware of needed repairs. You can schedule these repairs as soon as possible and rest easy knowing your chimney is ready to work for you when cool weather returns. It’s not uncommon for homeowners to wait until fall to schedule repairs, but it’s not recommended. The “Fall Rush” is the time between October and January in which chimney sweep companies are busy on emergency calls and installations. It can be difficult to get an appointment during this time, and you might be tempted to use a damaged chimney in the meantime. This isn’t recommended.
Closing Out Your System for Summer
The best way to close out your chimney system for warm weather is to have it cleaned, inspected, and repaired. If the chimney hasn’t been waterproofed, it should be waterproofed to protect the masonry against water damage through the wet months. Finally fireplace doors and dampers should be closed securely. Your chimney cap should prevent drafts or water from entering the flue, however they aren’t full-proof. Our technicians at The Mad Hatter are getting more and more requests for top-sealing dampers, also called energy-saving dampers. These products are installed onto the top of the flue serving as a chimney cap and a damper. After your cleaning and chimney repair, you can close the damper. The damper is sealed tightly with a rubber seal to protect the entire chimney.
While you’re planning your spring cleaning, The Mad Hatter can help with your chimney. Call one of our chimney experts at 317.596.0200 or request an appointment online.