Some homeowners may become tempted to burn through creosote buildup with a blowtorch. But the National Fire Protection Association advises against this method. This is due to the high risk of fire and explosion associated with it. Creosote is an oily coating on wood that can make it highly flammable. Its formations are common in homes heated through coal, oil, or natural gas. These fossil fuels produce large amounts of hydrocarbons while they burn. The hydrocarbons attract water molecules, which then form creosote deposits that line the inside of chimneys and stovepipes. These structures not o ..read more

A chimney is a structure that provides for the safe and efficient removal of smoke from a fireplace or wood-burning stove. Give importance to the proper flashing as it protects your home from moisture damage. Flashing is a thin metal sheet with sealant on one side. It prevents water from getting into the plywood at the base of the chimney. Do this by sealing around any openings in an internal or external wall to which it attaches. In this way, it also helps prevent rusting and rotting of wooden structures. What is Chimney Flashing Familiarize yourself with four types of chimney flashing. Below ..read more

Tuckpointing is necessary when the front or exposed side of your chimney has lost its original brick pattern. This occurs over time due to exposure to the elements, weathering, and erosion from wind or water. When you notice this happening on your chimney, you must correct the problem immediately before it worsens.   It is a process in which new bricks fill in gaps or replace missing ones around an existing masonry structure like your chimney and so on. Use a special mortar with color-matched sand between them for aesthetic reasons. Allow moisture to escape so trapped water does not cause ..read more

Chimney flashing repairs are a frequent chimney service. They come in various shapes and sizes. But they all have the same goal – watertight chimneys. A chimney is more than just a stack of bricks going up into the air. In addition to being an artful design element, chimneys serve as ventilation for your home. Bring fresh air into your living space while expelling dangerous carbon monoxide from deadly fireplace fires. The chimney also serves as part of an overall drainage system for your roofing materials. Allow rainwater to move away from the foundation of the house. It does not create a damp ..read more

The difference between chimney rebuilding and repointing is simple. Chimney rebuilding involves completely removing the existing brick, stonework, mortar joints, and so on, down to the bare chimney base. Lay the new bricks with lime mortar according to original specifications or modern-day state-of-the-art construction methods including concrete fireplaces when applicable. Repointing only requires removing the old thinnest layer of debris from the face of your masonry surface down to a bright finish line. Use tuckpointing tools for flatwork or power trowels for curved work. Tuckpointing does n ..read more

When you are like most homeowners, you probably do not think about your chimney until it is time to light a fire. But did you know that there are several signs that your chimney may need repair? Discover them as you read on. How do you inspect a chimney? It is very difficult to determine when your chimney needs repair unless you inspect the inside of it. Indeed, you can see these signs of damage from the outside such as: • signs on the exterior walls • signs on the roof • signs in and around your fireplace • signs in different rooms of your home Chimney inspections are easy to perform, but you ..read more

Rainwater can enter a chimney through the crown and down the flue. When your chimney lacks a cap, this is how rainwater will enter and flow into your home. A cap not only keeps rain out but also critters, leaves, and other debris. All these things can cause a fire hazard by blocking the flue or starting a fire in the fireplace. What is a Chimney Cap? A chimney cap is a metal or clay covering that you place on the top of the chimney. It has a flange that rests on the roof and extends out over the chimney to keep water and debris from entering. A good chimney cap should have a rain shield to kee ..read more

Just because chimneys are colder does not mean they cannot have repair. A chimney repair company should know how to fix it in cold conditions. But that does not mean winter chimney repair cannot occur. You can have chimney repair during the winter. But take special precautions so you do not put your home at risk of fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Using a Long Island chimney repair company is one of the best ways to ensure safety, as well as help with snow removal as necessary. Chimney sweeps often maintain this house part. They understand how much work goes into this activity throughout the ..read more