For Quality Chimney Sweep Services Near Troy, Work With Northeastern Masonry & Chimney
We pride ourselves on being the best chimney service provider in the Troy, NY area. If you’ve been seeking chimney sweep services near you, trust our experts to get the job done right. We’d love to help you out soon. Call or book online today.
How Often Should I Really Get My Chimney Swept if I Only Use it Occasionally?
Even if you only use your fireplace occasionally – or never at all – it’s still important to have your chimney swept and inspected on an annual basis.
Why? Because creosote, a flammable substance that builds up from burning wood, can accumulate even with infrequent use. Additionally, debris like leaves, nests, or other blockages can form over time, posing potential fire hazards or ventilation issues. In fact, an unused chimney is especially attractive to birds and woodland critters, so annual inspections can help you avoid a pest problem.
Another consideration is that unused chimneys are still prone to damage due to age, weather, etc., and if your chimney has water leaks or structural issues, it can make the surrounding areas of your home vulnerable – think water stains on your ceiling, mold growth, rotted woodwork, etc.
Annual chimney inspections also protect the value of your home. A chimney that’s neglected or shows signs of damage can raise red flags for potential buyers and even affect your home’s resale value down the line. On the other hand, showing proof of regular maintenance can reassure buyers and help you negotiate a better price.
Are There Any Signs That I Should Schedule a Chimney Sweep Sooner Than Planned?
If you’ve already gotten your annual chimney sweep done for the year, is there any scenario that may warrant another inspection and sweep before the calendar year is up? You bet.
- You notice smoky odors near your fireplace. One of the most common warning signs is a strong, smoky odor coming from your fireplace, even when it’s not in use. This can be a sign of excessive creosote buildup or blockages in the chimney that restrict airflow.
- You notice unpleasant decay-like odors. If you don’t use your chimney often, an animal may have found its way in. Whether the animal got trapped and passed away or set up camp to raise babies, you’ll notice foul odors, either way.
- You notice smoke entering your living space. This could indicate poor ventilation due to creosote buildup, debris, or structural issues within the chimney. Additionally, if you hear unusual noises, like animal movements or the sound of debris falling, it could mean that pests have built nests or obstructions are present.
- You spot visible signs of creosote buildup. This substance is often black and tar-like or flaky and can be seen inside the firebox or chimney walls. If you notice a quarter-inch or more of creosote buildup, it’s time to schedule a sweep, as it poses a serious fire hazard. Creosote builds up faster if you use unseasoned wood.
- You notice performance issues. Other signs include difficulty starting a fire or keeping it burning, which can be caused by restricted airflow. Additionally, if you experience poor draft (i.e., smoke not rising through the chimney efficiently), it’s a good indicator that a sweep is needed.
- You’ve recently had a severe weather event. Bad weather events, like heavy storms or high winds, may warrant an extra chimney inspection. These events can damage the chimney structure or cause debris to accumulate, impacting performance and safety.
Is It Safe to Sweep My Own Chimney, or Should I Always Call a Professional?
We’re aware of the DIY chimney sweep kits out there on the market, but it’s always safer and more effective to hire a professional for your chimney sweep service. Chimney sweeping requires specialized tools and knowledge to do it properly, and an amateur job could leave your home vulnerable whenever you light a fire.
In addition, professionals are trained to identify potential hazards, such as creosote buildup, structural damage, or blockages from nests or debris – all things that an untrained eye might miss.
Another concern is the potential for damaging the chimney structure. Without the right tools and techniques, you could accidentally damage the flue liner or other components, leading to expensive repairs down the line.
Professionals not only have the right equipment, but also carry certifications and insurance, ensuring the job is done as safely and effectively as possible.
Looking for quality chimney sweep services near you? Hire us – we’d love to speak with you soon.
A Trusted Chimney Company Near You: Hire Northeastern for It All
When it comes to reliable chimney services near you, Northeastern is the trusted choice for homeowners throughout Troy and its surrounding areas. Whether you need a thorough inspection, fireplace repairs, or a professional cleaning, our experienced team is ready to handle it all.
Don’t settle for less – choose Northeastern for all your chimney needs. Contact us today to schedule your service.