Why You Should Schedule A Chimney Inspection Now
Summer is almost here, and your chimney is probably one of the last things on your mind. Although it may seem counterintuitive, summer is actually the best time to schedule a chimney inspection. Here’s why it’s important to get chimney inspections and cleanings on the books now, rather than waiting until winter.
You’ll have time to make repairs.
During an inspection, your chimney sweep might identify problems that you wouldn’t catch on your own. If this happens, you will need to schedule further repairs and cleanings to correct these problems. These repairs could be time-consuming, and you’ll want to make sure they are completed in time for the winter months so you can use your fireplace. There are some types of repairs that can’t be completed in wet or cold weather. Scheduling your chimney inspection earlier in the summer ensures that you have plenty of time to get everything done before things start to cool down.
You’ll be able to get an appointment quickly.
Many people wait until the fall to schedule their chimney repairs. Unfortunately, fall is the busiest time for chimney repair services, and there are a limited number of appointments available. This means that you may not be able to get an appointment before winter if you wait too long.
Chimney inspections are necessary to prevent fire hazards.
If you don’t have your chimney inspected regularly, you put yourself at risk of an unexpected fire. This is particularly important for wood-burning fireplaces. Burning wood can create a byproduct called creosote. A small amount of creosote is normal, and you can remove most of it on your own just by sweeping after you use your fireplace. However, creosote can also build up over time. Hardened creosote is highly flammable and needs to be removed by a professional.
Debris can also make its way into the top of your chimney, which prevents proper ventilation and can also be a fire hazard. It’s even possible for small animals to get inside your chimney in some cases! A chimney inspection will identify and remove these obstructions before they cause any further problems. Your chimney professional can also recommend solutions to help prevent the problem from happening again, such as a chimney cap.
Chimney inspections identify potential structural issues.
Over time, the structure of your chimney can break down as a result of moisture buildup as well as natural wear and tear. Because these structural changes are so subtle, it can be difficult to identify them on your own. A chimney inspection will catch these potential issues before they get worse so you can correct them. Chimney inspections can also save you money in the long run, because it’s far less expensive to fix a minor problem than it is to rebuild a chimney that has been slowly deteriorating for years.
Now is the perfect time to schedule an inspection to keep your chimney in great condition. If you’re in need of chimney inspections, repairs, or cleanings in Connecticut, Northeastern Chimney can help! Give us a call at 860-233-5770 or contact us online to schedule your appointment today.