Fireplaces are more than just a way to warm up, they bring a sense of family and community into our homes. They have been an important part of human life for thousands of years, allowing families to gather together and enjoy the warmth of the fire while sharing food, stories and other special moments. There are many choices of fireplaces today, from wood-burning to gas log fireplaces and even electric fireplaces. All offer different benefits, including adding beauty and monetary value to the home.
Masonry Naperville fireplace chimneys, built with bricks, blocks and mortar are beautiful, long lasting structures that add real value to your home. They are also a fire hazard if they’re not regularly maintained. A masonry chimney should be inspected and cleaned by a professional annually to make sure it is free of dangerous blockages and flammable creosote deposits.
The flammable deposits build up from burning wood, coal and other fuels and can cause chimney fires if left unchecked. They can also be a source of carbon monoxide if the fireplace is used as a furnace.
A professional chimney sweep uses specialized rods, chimney brushes and hand tools to remove soot build up and flaky creosote deposits from the interior walls of your chimney system. The chimney sweeping process is not messy and can usually be done without removing the firebox or the firebrick surround. The sweep will also inspect your chimney liner, smoke chamber, flue tiles and damper.
An annual inspection and chimney sweeping is the best way to ensure that your fireplace chimney and chimney system is safe and operating properly. If you are noticing signs that it is time for a chimney cleaning, such as a smoky smell or a draft, it’s important to schedule an appointment right away.
Regular yearly maintenance will help to keep your chimney in top condition and prevent costly repairs. A chimney that is not properly cared for and maintained can result in a number of problems, including fire hazards, carbon monoxide poisoning and even a chimney collapse.
To keep your chimney clean, avoid burning green or wet wood. Build smaller fires that produce less smoke and creosote. You can also reduce the amount of creosote buildup by using a chimney cleaning log that contains chemicals to break down some types of creosote. In addition, make sure that you have proper fireplace safety equipment, like a spark screen, a grate or glass doors on the firebox, and a chimney cap to prevent water or debris from entering the flue. You should also regularly check your smoke and CO detectors to make sure they are working correctly.