Hosting Thanksgiving? Here’s Why a Chimney Inspection is a Must

What better time to ensure your chimney and fireplace are in tip-top shape? The holidays are just around the corner. If you are planning on hosting Thanksgiving now is the time to schedule that chimney inspection. From optimizing performance and identifying hazards, inspections are a way of being proactive in having the safest and most efficient burning chimney.

Some Individual Maintenance: What Should I Be Doing?

• Take a look around. Not only inside but outside as well. If you see any visible damage, it’s time to call Mercer to inspect for damage.
• Clean out the firebox and glass. Keep the firebox clean of old spent wood and ash.
• Check for moisture. If you see moisture there is a leak and it needs to be repaired.
• Take a look up into the chimney. If you see twigs or debris, you need a chimney sweep.
• Open and close the damper. Does it work properly? Does it close completely?

Here Are Reasons Why This Is A Good Time To Have An Inspection

Clean Chimney

A clean chimney will eliminate the cause for concern of a chimney fire. Creosote is a chemical compound, tar-like that builds up in your chimney when wood is burned. Creosote is flammable. Once the creosote is exposed to high heat, a fire may occur. An inspection will note the collection of creosote and suggest a chimney sweep to clean this out.

Chimney Damage

An inspection will alert you to any damages that may have occurred over the year. The heat of summer with its rain and windstorms can cause havoc on your chimney. Early detection of damage and rapid repairs can save you in the long run. The cost of repairs to your chimney is quite high the larger the damage. Many components of the chimney and fireplace can become damaged. An inspection will identify damages that may not be seen. You may see damage to bricks and mortar and chimney caps or flashing damage.

Animals And Debris

During the summer months your chimney is not being used. The chimney is a very nice place for small animals to find shelter from a storm. The weather during the summer can cause debris to fly, finding its way into your chimney. Leaving nesting animals or twigs and debris in your chimney can cause blockage. A blocked chimney can cause a chimney fire if not cleared out. While our team is at your home for an inspection, we will alert you to any blockage in the chimney.

Contact Us Today!

We are a Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) Certified National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) member. Our fully licensed, insured and trained chimney technicians handle chimney sweeping, cleaning, and tough chimney problems. This includes tuckpointing, chimney construction, chimney venting, chimney pipe, chimney crown repair, chimney cap installation, chimney chase cover, chimney liner replacement or repair, leaky chimney repairs, fireplace restorations, chimney restoration, masonry services, chimney damper repairs, smoky chimneys, smelly chimneys, loose mortar on the chimney and any other chimney or fireplace services you need.