Winter Chimney Risks
For many of us, having a fireplace is part of owning a home. Some look forward to winter to use it regularly. Chimneys give us a welcoming environment even though wind and snow are blowing outside. Chimneys need maintenance, like many parts of a home; this is especially true in winter. If a homeowner hasn’t had a chimney cleaning or inspection in a while, there could be multiple problems.
Some problems can emerge with your chimney when the weather gets cold.
The freeze and thaw effect.
The weather has a tremendous effect on the brick-and-mortar work in your chimney. If rain falls and coats your chimney with water, that water makes its way into the porous areas of the chimney. If the temperature drops below freezing, that water will turn to ice. As the water turns to ice, it expands the small crevasses in both the brick and mortar. When that ice thaws, it leaves cracks larger than before the freeze. Imagine that happening several times during the winter. If this process is left to its own devices, it’s only a matter of time before your chimney starts to crumble.
Obstructions in your chimney.
Although chimney blockages can happen any time of year, it is especially true in the winter. If the chimney cap is not functioning correctly, this is an open invitation for animals seeking shelter from the cold. It isn’t just the animals themselves; it is all the organic material they bring in or leave. Birds, squirrels, and the occasional raccoon will not just block the chimney; they will leave droppings that are difficult and expensive to remove.
Leaks, mildew, and mold
If you see water intrusion in the chimney brickwork, its next stop will be your roof or ceilings in your house. If you see yellow or light brown stains surrounding the chimney, most likely, the damage has already been done. This all comes because of the freezing and thawing effect. There is a good chance mildew is already growing not just in the chimney but on your ceiling and in the walls surrounding it. Mildew is bad, but mold, especially black mold, can be dangerous. Leaking water can do more than spread mold; it can rust metal parts of the chimney making it difficult to operate.
Making repairs to your chimney is not a do-it-yourself project. It is time to call in the pros at Northeastern Chimney, LLC. Our company has been in the business of cleaning, inspecting, and repairing chimneys for nearly 40 years.
All technicians have continuous training throughout the year. We require all our techs to be up to date on the latest equipment and techniques for the best customer service.
Our techs have a trained eye to spot any problems concerning your chimney, both inside your home and out. Our staff is certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. Our company is active in working with the National Chimney Sweep Guild and the Chimney Safety Institute of America.
Northeastern Chimney, LLC is proud to service the West Hartford area. If there is a problem with your chimney, call us. Chimneys are all we do.
Northeastern Chimney, LLC
37 Cody Street
West Hartford, Connecticut 06110
Phone: 860-233-5770