The middle of winter can seem like a less-than-ideal time to invest in professional home services, especially here in the Albany, NY area. Typically, projects and maintenance jobs fit better with the seasons that bring longer days, more temperate breezes, and less challenging weather. Even our personal bursts of heavy-duty cleaning are labeled spring and fall cleaning. The rhythms of chimney care tend to fit this seasonal pattern, as well. …but is there ever a time to break the pattern?
An annual chimney inspection is a must to keep your fireplace and chimney system running safely and efficiently. Most homeowners with chimneys schedule their inspection and sweeping before the burning season begins in order to ensure things are in good shape and ready for use. But perhaps you forgot to get that appointment on the books, or a rising concern has you wondering if mid-winter sweeps sometimes necessary? Or even possible?
Can I Schedule a Chimney Sweep During Winter?
If you’ve neglected to have a chimney inspection and sweeping prior to the cooler months, it’s not too late, even if you’ve been using your fireplace regularly. As a matter of fact, frequent use is a reason you shouldn’t put it off any longer. Any existing obstructions or creosote accumulation won’t simply go away, and trying to hold over until next season will give these things an opportunity to worsen. So if it’s been a while since your last inspection and sweeping, don’t worry – we won’t judge you. But for safety’s sake (and peace of mind), we’d strongly encourage you to schedule an appointment as soon as possible, even if it’s in the middle of winter.
When Is an Additional Mid-Winter Chimney Sweeping Necessary?
While a sweeping a year is standard, there may be times additional sweepings are necessary. If you notice or experience any of the following, this may be one of those times:
- Excessive smoke. A chief purpose of your chimney is to draw smoke and combustion gases safely up and out of your living space. If it’s failing to do so, it may be obstructed and therefore in need of sweeping. Smoke in your home is a sign that something is wrong and requires professional attention.
- Other indicators of poor draft. Smoke isn’t the only indicator that proper ventilation is impaired. If you’ve noticed strange smells, or if your fires are burning sluggishly, something in your chimney is likely restricting airflow. This makes it harder to enjoy your fireplace – and it’s hazardous too. Exposure to gases and particulates can range from aggravating to downright dangerous, and build-up in your chimney increases the risk of chimney fire.
- Scratching sounds. Sometimes birds, squirrels, or other animals manage to find their way into a chimney flue, especially when it’s cold and they need a warm place to nest. If you hear unusual noises coming from your chimney and/or see evidence of wildlife (or other debris), a sweep can help restore your system for safer use.
- A major weather event. Severe weather can damage a chimney, allowing debris or damaging moisture in, which can require a midwinter sweep and possibly some repairs.
- More use than normal. If you’ve been using your fireplace heavily, that’s great! Fireplaces are sturdy and should be enjoyed. But more frequent use may warrant an additional, midwinter sweeping.
If you have concerns, giving our team a call is a great next step. We can help you accurately diagnose any issues and determine whether additional action needs to be taken.
Can a Chimney Sweep Be Done in Cold Weather?
It’s normal to wonder whether New York winters will adversely affect the chimney sweeping process. Of course, weather can present its challenges. But professional sweeps have the training and tools to handle these conditions safely.
What if additional repairs are needed?
Winter isn’t the ideal season to handle certain fireplace and chimney repairs, such as those that require masonry to cure. But many repairs can be done in winter, no problem. Sweepings, many minor repairs, and most component replacements would fall in this category.
Once a technician has assessed a chimney issue, they’ll recommend a plan for remedying it with your safety and the comfort and care of your home in mind. That may involve taking immediate action or waiting for some repairs, but in either case it’s important not to delay in having the problem assessed. Some issues that need repair can worsen substantially (and expensively) if left unchecked too long.
How Can I Maintain My Chimney Between Sweepings?
To minimize creosote build-up and help keep your chimney functioning at its best, it’s imperative to burn only dry, seasoned firewood. Damp or newly cut wood doesn’t burn well. The resultant fire will likely not be very clean – meaning it will generate more smoke and creosote buildup in your chimney flue.
To promote cleaner burns, you should also regularly remove ash with fireproof tools and safely relocate them outside, clear of any structures, in a fireproof container with a secure lid. A small layer of ash can be helpful in insulating the firebox and helping to start new fires, but too much will only block oxygen flow around your logs, and therefore choke your fires.
It’s also wise to be deliberate about looking your chimney over at times to note whether there’s any noticeable signs of damage (such as cracking, loose bricks, or debris around the chimney crown and cap). Be attentive to signs of draft issues, as well.
Partner With Us for Chimney & Fireplace Services
A clear chimney flue is an important part of the greater chimney and fireplace system. You can trust us to partner with you in chimney care. We’ll bring our expertise and commitment to customer service to your chimney, so you can enjoy it in every season. Call or book online now.