Get Your Chimney Ready For Fall
The weather is changing. Summer is behind us now. The outlook for a more comfortable night’s sleep is exciting to many. As we put away our pool toys and prepare our gardens for the upcoming season, we also must contemplate what we need to do with our chimney to prepare for the upcoming winter. Taking care of the maintenance needed for your chimney will allow you to enjoy a crackling fire.
What Should I Be Thinking About As the Fall Is Upon Us?
Schedule your inspection and chimney sweep. The importance of having your chimney inspected annually is crucial for the reasons outlined below.
Clean out any debris
Any blockage that may have gotten into your chimney from leaves, twigs, or small animals nesting will be cleaned away with a sweep.
Check for a damaged crown or cap
Over time, the chimney crown and cap can get damaged. The crown, being made of concrete, is subject to wind, rain, and flying debris. Wear and tear can break down the concrete, creating cracks. Along with the wind, the cap can become dislodged, causing water to enter the chimney. Water can be very detrimental to the chimney and metal components. Water left in the chimney can create mold and mildew or damage the interior of your home.
Clean out creosote buildup
Creosote is a black, ink-like substance that is produced when wood is burned in the fireplace. When creosote builds up and is not cleaned out, a chimney fire may occur.
Check for cracks in masonry
Bricks and mortar are exposed to harsh winters and hot summer storms. Water gets into the very porous brick material. Small cracks start, which lead to larger issues. Once water gets into these small cracks, winter comes along, freezing the water within the cracks. The effect of freeze/thaw occurs, which will cause the cracks to expand.
Prepare your wood pile
Choose wisely. When purchasing wood, choose well-seasoned wood. Wood should be dried for 6 months to a year to burn clean. Also, select hardwood such as oak, maple, and birch. Hardwood burns hotter, therefore avoiding the additional collection of creosote on your chimney lining.
Install a smoke detector and a carbon monoxide detector
Protect your family against hazards. Working smoke and CO alarms significantly reduce the risk of injury in home fires and toxic gases.
Airflow
Drafting and airflow are important to allow toxic gases such as carbon monoxide to leave the home.
The National Fire Protection Association has announced that the theme of the 2025 Fire Prevention Week is
“Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” The program will be celebrated October 5 – 11, 2025
Call Mercer County Chimney Service to set up your appointment today.
We are a Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) Certified and a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG). 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.
