Home heating is an important consideration in Maryland’s changeable mid-Atlantic climate. Whether you have a wood-burning fireplace, an oil furnace or a gas boiler, regular chimney maintenance is crucial.
Keep Your Family Safe With Regular Maintenance
When you live in an area with cold winter weather, an inspection by a certified chimney sweep can identify many issues such as a failed chimney liner, creosote build-up or potential carbon monoxide dangers. There are some tasks you can do yourself, but scheduling a chimney cleaning with a chimney sweep Washington DC should be a regular part of your home maintenance routine.
Examine the Chimney From the Outside
An outside inspection can give you an idea of the condition of your chimney. Make sure that there are no tree branches close to the chimney, and no obstructions, such as bird nests, at the top. Make sure the chimney has a cap and that it is properly attached. Look for cracks in the bricks or the surrounding mortar and examine the flashing at the base of the chimney. The metal should be tight against the masonry so that no water can get in. Finally, check to see that the chimney rises straight into the air and is not leaning. If you find any problems, you should mention them when you call to schedule a chimney cleaning.
Schedule a Yearly Safety Check
No matter what kind of heat source you rely upon, if your house has a chimney, it needs to be checked at least once a year. If you have a wood-burning fireplace, it may need additional attention. When wood burns, creosote builds up on the inside of the chimney. Regular cleaning and inspection of the liner can save you from the tragedy of a chimney fire.
A quick inspection of your chimney and regularly scheduled maintenance by a certified chimney sweep are crucial steps to keeping your family safe and snug when cold weather comes. Put this important chore on your to-do list today.
