Chimney Sweeping Near Saratoga Springs: If You Need Chimney & Fireplace Services, Count on Northeastern

Have you been seeking a local chimney service provider near you? For chimney sweeps in the Saratoga Springs area, look no further than us. The certified chimney techs at Northeastern Masonry & Chimney are here to help with all of your chimney and fireplace needs. Call or book online now!

Chimney & Fireplace Services Near You: What Annual Services Does My Chimney Need?

Like any other appliance in your househole, your fireplace and chimney need regular servicing and maintenance to stay in good shape. What should you be booking on an annual basis?

original graphic with a dark blue title "Fireplace Q&A" on an orange background. Below the title is the question "What annual chimney and fireplace services should I be investing in?" followed by a dark blue box containing a list of three services: "Chimney Inspections," "Chimney Sweepings," and "Follow-Up Fireplace Repairs," each with a brief explanation. In the center of the graphic is a circular icon of a chimney sweep.
  • Chimney Inspection: A professional chimney inspection should be done every year before the start of your burn season, ideally in the spring or summer months.
  • Chimney Sweeping: Inspections and sweepings tend to go hand in hand, as it’s hard to get an accurate look into your flue without sweeping it clear first. Sweepings will also ensure any flammable debris or creosote is removed before you light your first fire of the year.
  • Follow-Up Fireplace Repairs: Did your inspection reveal damage? Then some follow-up repairs might be in order, and these will need to be completed before you put your fireplace to use.

Ready to get on our schedule books? Reach out now – we’d love to help.

 

Why Should I Schedule My Chimney Sweep & Inspection in the Spring/Summer?

When’s the best time to book your chimney inspection and sweep? Many would assume fall is the correct answer, but there are actually several advantages to booking this maintenance earlier in the year – like during the warmer spring or summer months. Here’s what we recommend warm weather chimney maintenance:

  • You’ll avoid the fall rush. Chimney service companies get much busier in the fall as homeowners prepare for the heating season. By scheduling in the off-season, you’ll have more flexible appointment options and can avoid long wait times.
  • You can catch issues early, before they worsen. Winter weather can be harsh on chimneys. Freeze/thaw cycles can cause cracks in masonry, and you’ll likely have a lot of creosote buildup if you light fires a lot. A spring or summer inspection helps identify and address these issues before they worsen – and cost more to fix.
  • You’ll avoid unpleasant creosote odors. Creosote buildup in the chimney can produce strong – and unwelcome – odors during the hot and humid summer months, especially once you turn your A/C on. A chimney sweep in the spring removes creosote and soot, keeping your home smelling fresher.
  • The fireplace will be ready on those first cold days. If problems are found during an early inspection, you’ll have plenty of time to have repairs completed well before colder weather arrives. That way, your fireplace will be ready for use when temperatures drop, and you won’t be stuck waiting for additional services well into the burn season.
  • It can help you avoid animal invasions. Birds, squirrels, and other small animals often nest inside weak or open chimneys in the spring. A professional chimney sweep and inspection will reveal any vulnerable spots, ensuring you have a well-fitted caps and no gaps or openings.
  • You’ll have better weather for repairs. If your chimney needs masonry work, tuckpointing, or waterproofing, warm weather allows quicker and more effective curing of materials compared to colder months.

How Harmful Is Creosote to My Chimney?

Creosote is one of the most harmful byproducts of wood burning, and it poses serious risks to your chimney and home due to its flammable nature. When it accumulates in large amounts, it can quickly ignite and start a chimney fire – which then leads to lots of damages to your chimney, many of which homeowners won’t notice, as most chimney fires are slow-moving, quiet events.

Creosote can also restrict airflow. As it thickens inside the flue, it narrows the chimney passage, making it harder for smoke and gases to effectively escape. Not only does this lead to less heat and poor fireplace performance, it increases the likelihood of smoke building up inside of your home. A blocked or restricted chimney can even cause carbon monoxide to accumulate.

Dangers aside, during warmer and more humid months, creosote can release a strong, unpleasant odor inside of your home.

Finally, over time, creosote buildup can corrode and weaken your chimney liner, which is designed to protect the masonry from extreme heat and ensure more efficient operation, overall.

The best way to prevent creosote-related dangers? Book regular chimney sweeps and inspections with our experts in Saratoga Springs and surrounding areas. Don’t wait to reach out – we’re ready for your call.

original image with text explaining the dangers of creosote buildup in chimneys. It's titled 'Fireplace Q&A' and asks 'How harmful is creosote to my chimney?'  The image lists four key risks in bullet points: 1. Highly Flammable: Creosote buildup can ignite, leading to dangerous chimney fires. 2. Restricts Airflow: Thick creosote narrows the flue, trapping smoke and carbon monoxide. 3. Unpleasant Odors: In warm, humid months, creosote can cause strong, musty smells. 4. Damages Your Chimney: Over time, creosote can corrode and weaken the chimney liner. The image recommends regular chimney sweeps and inspections to prevent creosote-related risks. There's also a small circular illustration of a chimney sweep in the center of the image.

Chimney Sweep Near You: Schedule With Northeastern Chimney

Don’t wait until the cold weather arrives – ensure your chimney is cleaner, safer, and ready for use by scheduling your chimney sweep and inspection with Northeastern Chimney today. For chimney and fireplace services near you in Saratoga Springs, we’re the only crew to call.

Enjoy peace of mind all year long – book with us today.