Pro Tips for a Well-Maintained Chimney and Fireplace

We tell you about the importance of an annual chimney inspection and cleaning just about every chance we get. In fact, we most recently wrote about DIY chimney cleaning, and how much of a bad idea that is. Regular chimney inspections and cleanings by certified chimney sweeps are essential to the safe operation of your chimney every winter.

But there are also plenty of things you can and should be doing on your own over the course of the year to keep you and your family safe from the hazards that come with setting a roaring fire inside your home. We took the liberty of putting together a quick checklist of the following fireplace/chimney maintenance items to keep in mind all year round:

Regularly assess the outside of your chimney. Is it starting to lean? Do you spot holes or cracks in the bricks or along the flashing? If so, those are issues that you’ll want addressed by a chimney sweep before the next fire season rolls around.

Inspect your chimney cap if possible. Every chimney should have a chimney cap that helps keep all manner of things from getting inside, including moisture and critters. If you spot a loose cap or holes in the wire mesh, call a sweep immediately, as that may be a sign that something has taken up residence in your chimney.

Check your fireplace for moisture. Regularly shine a light in your fireplace to make sure no moisture is collecting. Any sign of moisture means that either your chimney’s structure is compromised or the cap is malfunctioning.

Inspect the flue. If you know where the clean-out door is located, open it up and stick a small mirror and flashlight in to check for any soot buildup or cracks along the flue.

Check the damper. During months when your fireplace is not in use, check the damper regularly to ensure that it easily opens and closes.

Inspect the outside of the fireplace. Always be on the lookout for cracked or loose bricks, as well as discoloration around the outside of the fireplace. All could be signs of needed chimney repairs.

Performing these regular inspections on your own could end up saving you more money in the long run by spotting small problems before they turn into big problems. However, we DO NOT advise that you attempt to make chimney or fireplace repairs on your own. The margin of error is too small, and mistakes can have catastrophic consequences.

Call on the certified professionals at Valley Chimney Sweep & Restoration for all your chimney inspection and repair needs. We’ve been in business since 1976 and can ensure you’re operating your fireplace safely all season long.