As the temperature begins to drop, homeowners like yourselves are eagerly anticipating the cozy warmth of their fireplace. While a crackling fire can create a delightful atmosphere, using your fireplace safely during the winter is essential. In this month’s blog, our CCP-certified chimney professionals have compiled five tips to ensure you have a safe and efficient burning season. 1. Perform regular maintenance. Before the winter season, have your fireplace and chimney inspected by a professional chimney sweep. They will check for any blockages, creosote buildup, or damage that could pose a safety hazard. Schedule a professional cleaning at least once a year or more if your fireplace or wood stove are used frequently. 2. Store and burn quality firewood. Burn only seasoned hardwoods like oak, maple, or cherry. Seasoned wood has been allowed to dry for at least six months. Green, or wet, wood can lead to more creosote buildup and less efficient burning. Store firewood away from your home to prevent pests and moisture problems. 3. Ensure proper ventilation. Open the damper or flue before lighting a fire to ensure proper ventilation. This allows smoke and gases to escape through the chimney rather than entering your home. Keep a window cracked open slightly while the fire is burning to provide a source of fresh air and help maintain proper airflow. Remove ashes and debris from the firebox to ensure proper airflow and reduce the risk of a chimney fire. 4. Use fireplace tools. Install a sturdy fireplace screen or glass doors to prevent sparks, embers, and logs from popping out of the fire. Ensure the screen or doors are securely in place while the fire is burning. Use appropriate tools, such as a poker and tongs, to adjust and move logs as needed. Never use your hands to adjust burning logs. 5. Practice fireplace safety. Keep flammable materials, such as curtains, furniture, and decorations, a safe distance away from the fireplace. We recommend a three-foot clearance. Always supervise the fire and never leave it unattended, especially if you have pets or children in the house. Extinguish the fire completely before going to bed or leaving the house. Use a fireplace shovel to spread out the embers and cover them with ashes. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home, especially near the fireplace and sleeping areas. Regularly test and replace the batteries in these detectors to ensure they are functioning properly. Chimney Cleaning, Inspection, Maintenance and Repair in NH and MA Professional inspections and cleanings, coupled with responsible burning practices, not only keep your home safe but also ensure that you enjoy a cozy and warm winter season. Is your chimney due for an appointment? Contact us today. We’re your local CCP-certified chimney professionals. Powered by Sprout

Maintaining your chimney cap is essential to the functionality of your entire system and should be a part of your overall chimney care. A well-maintained cap protects your home from animal intrusions, blocks debris and moisture, preserves energy efficiency, and enhances indoor air quality. In this article, our CCP-certified chimney professionals explore the key role maintenance plays in the performance and longevity of your cap. Safeguarding Your Home and Hearth The primary purpose of a chimney cap is to keep out unwanted elements, such as rainwater, snow, and debris. By preventing water entry, it safeguards the interior of your chimney from costly water damage, including rusted flue liners and weakened mortar joints. Moreover, a well-maintained chimney cap acts as a barrier against the invasion of small animals or birds that can create nests or cause blockages, potentially leading to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup or chimney fires. Beyond protection, chimney caps also enhance the overall efficiency of your fireplace. It aids in controlling the draft, preventing downdrafts that could blow smoke back into your home, and promoting proper airflow for better combustion. A Maintenance Checklist 1. Keep up with annual inspections. Professional inspections of your cap are essential to ensure it remains intact and fully functional. Your technician will check for any signs of damage and make sure it’s securely attached to the chimney, with no gaps or openings. Additionally, they’ll clean any debris, nests, or animal activity around the cap. 2. Promptly address repairs. Cracked or corroded chimney caps can allow water to seep into your chimney, leading to extensive damage. If any damage or structural issues are identified during the inspection, it is crucial to address them promptly. Timely repairs or replacement will prevent further deterioration and protect your chimney system from costly repairs down the line. 3. Schedule a professional cleaning. Debris, leaves, and twigs can accumulate on and around the cap, potentially causing blockages, compromising ventilation and its overall functionality. A professional chimney sweep will remove visible debris, stubborn buildup, and ensure that the cap's screening is clear of all obstructions. 4. Consider waterproofing. For optimal performance, we recommend sealing and waterproofing your chimney cap. This process helps to safeguard the cap against moisture, preventing rust, corrosion, and the growth of mold and mildew. It also helps maintain the cap's structural integrity and prolongs its lifespan. Chimney Cap Installation, Inspection, Maintenance, and Repair in NH and MA Your chimney cap may seem insignificant, but its impact is far-reaching. Contact our team of CCP-certified chimney professionals today to arrange your inspection and cleaning services. Rest assured, we will diligently ensure your cap is in prime condition, providing you with peace of mind. Powered by Sprout

Summer’s mild weather is a welcome change from winter’s frigid cool air, but warmer temperatures can bring an unwelcome visitor into your home: chimney odors. The heat and humidity can exacerbate the issue, leading to unpleasant smells permeating throughout your living space. Fortunately, there are effective methods to prevent chimney odors. Here are the top five: 1. Schedule regular cleaning and maintenance. Odor prevention begins with a well-maintained chimney. Your chimney is less likely to generate odors if it’s been regularly cleaned and inspected by one of our certified chimney professionals. A thorough cleaning will remove any built-up creosote, soot, or debris that contribute to unpleasant smells. Additionally, your inspection will help identify and address any potential issues that may be causing the odor. 2. Properly ventilate your fireplace. Like other systems in your home, the right ventilation is crucial to prevent odors from accumulating. Make sure your chimney and fireplace have adequate airflow by keeping the damper open when not in use. This helps eliminate any stagnant air or moisture that can lead to odors. 3. Address water intrusion. Water intrusion is a common cause of chimney odors, and warm weather can exacerbate this problem. Check for signs of water damage, such as discoloration, crumbling masonry, or leaks, and schedule repairs promptly. Ensure that your chimney has a proper chimney crown, a well-fit chimney cap, and intact flashing to prevent water from seeping in. In addition, our CCP-certified chimney profesionals recommend waterproofing the exterior of your chimney to help protect it from moisture damage and subsequent odors. 4. Eliminate nest and debris build-up. During warmer months, small animals may seek refuge in your chimney. Their nests can cause strong, unpleasant smells as well as potential fire hazards. Likewise, leaves and other debris can enter your chimney, disrupting air flow and contributing to foul odors. Install a chimney cap or spark arrestor to prevent animals and debris from entering the chimney while still allowing smoke to escape. If you suspect an animal has nested in your chimney, contact our professional chimney experts to safely remove the nest and thoroughly clean your chimney. Pro Tip: Even with proper maintenance, you may still experience residual chimney odors. Place an odor-absorbing material, like activated charcoal or baking soda, near the fireplace or inside the firebox to help absorb unpleasant odors and improve your indoor air quality. 5. Follow best-practice burning techniques. Finally, avoid burning wet or green wood anytime you use your fireplace, as it can produce excessive smoke and contribute to odor problems. Ensure that the fire is well-established and burning hot to minimize the production of creosote, a major source of chimney odors. Avoid using your fireplace during extremely humid days, as the moisture can intensify odor issues. Chimney Inspection, Cleaning, Repair, Service, and Maintenance in NH and MA Regular chimney upkeep and professional maintenance can help you enjoy an odor-free home throughout the year. If you encounter persistent odors or notice other issues with your chimney, contact our professional chimney team. We can provide expert advice and assistance! Powered by Sprout

As we move into the summer season, you’re probably not thinking about your wood-burning fireplace. But if it’s been a while since your last cleaning and inspection, it’s the perfect time to schedule one. Most homeowners know that annual chimney cleanings and inspections help prevent fires, but routine maintenance offers many other important benefits, as detailed in this blog article. 1. Improved Air Quality A chimney that is not properly maintained can lead to poor air quality in your home. When your chimney is clogged with debris, soot, and creosote, it can prevent the proper ventilation of smoke and other pollutants. These pollutants can then enter your home, causing respiratory problems and other health issues. Regular chimney cleanings will remove any buildup or obstructions, ensuring that smoke and pollutants are properly vented out of your chimney, and improving your home’s air quality. 2. Reduced Energy Bills When your chimney is clogged or blocked, it causes your heating system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills. Keeping your chimney maintained will help ensure that it is functioning properly, so your heating system works more efficiently. 3. Protection from Water Damage Improper sealing and cracks in the masonry allow water to seep into the bricks and mortar, causing damage to your chimney, roof, or the ceiling and walls of your home. Prevent costly problems and structural damage by scheduling an annual chimney inspection, addressing masonry repairs, and keeping up with sealing applications. 4. Increased Chimney Lifespan Over time, a neglected chimney can lead to structural damage, which can cause it to deteriorate and fail. Regular maintenance, including inspection and repair, can help identify and fix any structural issues before they become major problems, prolonging the life of your chimney. A Note About Chimney Fires When you use your fireplace, creosote, a highly flammable substance, builds up on the interior walls of your chimney. Without proper cleaning, this buildup can ignite and cause a chimney fire. A chimney fire can quickly spread to the rest of your home, causing significant damage and putting your family in danger. Regular chimney maintenance, including professional cleanings and inspections, can help prevent creosote buildup and reduce the risk of a chimney fire. Chimney Cleaning, Inspection, Maintenance & Repair in NH & MA Regular chimney maintenance is essential for the safe and efficient operation of your chimney. By investing in regular chimney maintenance—including cleaning, inspection, sealing, and repair, you can protect your home, increase the lifespan of your chimney, and ensure that your family is safe and comfortable. Contact us to schedule your next cleaning and inspection. Powered by Sprout

Now that the snow has finally melted and spring has arrived, it's time to start thinking about closing your fireplace for the season. Proper service and maintenance will help preserve the integrity of your chimney system. Our CCP-certified chimney experts recommend the following tips to help you safely close your fireplace for the season: 1. Schedule a cleaning and inspection. A professional inspection and cleaning provide peace of mind that your fireplace and chimney are safe to use when the weather gets cold again. Your technician will clean soot and creosote that have accumulated from fireplace use and look for any chimney damage, such as cracks or other structural issues, that could pose a safety hazard. 2. Address any necessary repairs. If our team identifies any structural issues or masonry problems during the inspection, be sure to schedule repairs before closing your fireplace for the season. A delay in repair work can lead to more significant and costly problems down the road. 3. Remove leftover debris from the fireplace. Remove ashes, logs, or other materials that may have been left behind from the last time you used the fireplace. Be sure the debris is cool and use a metal shovel and bucket to dispose of the debris safely and properly. 4. Close the damper. During the off-season, keep your damper closed to prevent humid air from entering your home and to keep air-conditioned air from escaping up the chimney. An open damper will not only make your air conditioning work harder, increasing your energy bills, but the humid outside air can produce a foul odor when mixed with creosote deposits in your chimney and fireplace. 5. Install a chimney cap. A chimney cap sits on top of your chimney and helps prevent debris, animals, and rain from entering your chimney. Installing a chimney cap is an effective method to protect your chimney from damage and safety hazards. 6. Cover your fireplace opening. Once you've completed all of the steps above, we recommend covering the fireplace opening to prevent drafts and debris from entering your home. You can use a fireplace screen or cover to block off the opening. Be sure to secure the cover tightly so that it doesn't come loose during the off-season. 7. Store unused firewood properly. If you have firewood that you won't be using until next winter, store it away from your home in a dry space and off the ground. This will help prevent it from absorbing moisture, which can cause it to rot and become unusable. Chimney Cleaning, Inspections, Repair, and Maintenance in NH and MA By following these tips and working with our experienced team, you can ensure that your fireplace is ready to use when the weather turns colder again. Contact us today to schedule a cleaning and inspection or to learn more about our services. Powered by Sprout

Your chimney plays an essential role in drawing smoke and other harmful pollutants out of your home, ensuring that your fireplace works safely and efficiently. And just like any other system in your home, your chimney requires regular cleaning to do its job safely. Without regular cleanings, creosote -a highly-flammable, tar-like byproduct of burning wood - can ignite and cause a chimney fire. Here are six signs that your chimney needs to be cleaned: 1. Frequent Use We recommend cleaning your chimney at least once a year - more frequently if your fireplace is used often. If you love to enjoy nightly fires, schedule additional cleanings to keep creosote from building up. 2. Smoke in Your Home If you notice smoke in your home, this could be a sign of a dirty or obstructed chimney. A dirty chimney restricts airflow, causing smoke and harmful gases to accumulate in your home. When your chimney is functioning correctly, it should draw smoke and other pollutants out of your home. 3. Difficulty Starting a Fire If you have trouble starting a fire in your fireplace it could be due to a blockage or buildup of creosote in your chimney. When the chimney is clogged, the smoke cannot escape, and the airflow is restricted, making it challenging to start a fire. 4. Slow Burning Fire If your fire burns slowly or doesn't burn as hot as it used to, this could be a sign of a blockage or buildup of creosote in your chimney. A restricted airflow can cause the fire to burn less efficiently, producing less heat. 5. Presence of Animals Chimneys are a popular nesting place for small animals such as birds, squirrels, and raccoons. If you hear rustling or scratching sounds in your chimney, it's a sign that animals have taken up residence there. Animal nests and debris can block your chimney, preventing smoke and gases from leaving your home. Pro Tip: Got animals? A chimney cap can prevent small critters from entering and nesting in your chimney. Our CCP-certified chimney professionals can help you select and install one today. 6. Burning Smell and Flakes As creosote accumulates on the walls of your chimney, it can produce a strong burning odor. You may also notice creosote debris or flakes on the surface of your firebox. Chimney Cleaning and Inspections in NH and MA Is your chimney due for its next cleaning? Contact our CCP-certified chimney professionals at Admiralty Chimney. We can clean and inspect your chimney to improve its safety and efficiency, and ensure that your home is safe and comfortable. Powered by Sprout

A chimney inspection is a critical step in the upkeep and maintenance of your system. An annual inspection not only ensures your fireplace and chimney are functioning safely and efficiently, but also catches common problems that would otherwise go undetected. In this month’s blog, Admiralty Chimney’s CCP-certified chimney experts share the most common problems they see when performing a chimney inspection. 1. Creosote Build-up Creosote is a highly combustible, tar-like substance that is formed when wood is burned. Over time, it builds up inside your chimney, reducing airflow and creating a fire hazard. Creosote can also ignite at high temperatures, putting you at risk of a chimney fire. During your inspection, a technician will evaluate the amount of creosote build-up and recommend a professional cleaning to remove it. 2. Cracks in the Chimney Lining Your chimney liner is designed to protect your chimney walls from the corrosive effects of combustion byproducts. The presence of cracks or damage to your lining can lead to a number of issues, including an increased risk of chimney fires and exposure to carbon monoxide. During your inspection, the professional chimney technician will check your lining to ensure it’s in good condition and functioning properly. 3. Obstructions In addition to creosote build-up and lining damage, technicians often find chimney obstructions during the inspection. Obstructions can be caused by a variety of factors, including excess creosote, animal nests, and yard debris. When obstructions are present, they can prevent proper airflow and increase the risk of chimney fires. 4. Damage to the Chimney Cap and Crown A chimney cap and crown protect your chimney from water and debris. If these components are compromised or deteriorating, they can allow water to seep in, causing leaks and damage to your chimney and home. 5. Malfunctioning Chimney Damper The damper is responsible for controlling airflow in your chimney, and when it is not functioning properly, it can result in poor combustion and decreased efficiency. A chimney sweep will evaluate the damper to ensure that it is in good condition and functioning properly. Chimney Inspection, Service, Maintenance, and Repair in NH and MA Professional chimney inspections give you a thorough understanding of the functionality and performance of your system. Identifying common chimney problems early on gives you an opportunity to address issues before they result in serious, costly repairs. If it’s been awhile since your last inspection, schedule your appointment today with our CCP-certified chimney technicians. We’re your locally owned and operated full-service chimney company. Powered by Sprout

Small animals scurrying around your yard is a welcome sign of spring – until those critters make their way into your chimney.mneys provide a warm place that’s protected from rain and predators, making it an ideal space for nesting. But nests can cause costly damage to the inside of your chimney and lead to chimney fires or carbon monoxide poisoning. Admiralty Chimney’s CCP-certified chimney specialists recommend three ways to keep your chimney free of animals. 1. Install a chimney cap. This is the most effective tool to keep birds and small animals out of your flue. A chimney cap, installed by a professional chimney company, should include mesh screening with holes that are small enough to keep out animals. Chimney caps also keep leaves and other outside debris from filtering into your chimney. Additionally, caps protect your chimney from rain water, melted ice and snow, and help keep hot sparks and embers from escaping and starting a fire. 2. Consider using a top-sealing damper. Most dampers today are known as “throat” dampers, located just above the fireplace. Top-sealing dampers are installed closer to the top of the flue, allowing it to seal the chimney at the top. This leaves no space for animals to build nests if the damper remains closed. Top-sealing dampers also add an extra layer of protection against moisture, help prevent downdrafts, and reduce the risk of fires. 3. Trim the trees close to your roof and chimney. Trees that hang near or over your chimney can give animals direct access into your flue. Cutting back branches from the chimney and the rest of the roof can make it more difficult for animals to gain access. This, combined with additional deterrents like chimney caps, can help keep animals from blocking your chimney system. Now that you know your options, contact us to schedule an inspection. We will check the structural integrity of your chimney, look for signs of existing animal activity, and set a time to install a cap or damper. Chimney Cap Installation, Chimney Inspection, Service, and Repair in NH and MA Unwelcome critters can compromise the safety and efficiency of your chimney. Contact Admiralty Chimney’s CCP-certified chimney technicians to discuss the best methods to keep your chimney critter-free. Powered by Sprout

Spring is just around the corner. While you’re still savoring those cozy fires, there are steps you can take now to get your fireplace and chimney ready for the next burning season. Beginning maintenance early will ensure your system is safe and ready to use when summer ends and the chilly air returns. Here are four ways you can prepare for next fall. 1. Schedule a chimney check-up. After a winter’s worth of fires and harsh weather conditions, your chimney needs a thorough check to be sure it can safely operate next season. It’s a little known secret that spring is the best time to schedule a chimney cleaning and inspection. As an early bird, you can beat the fall and winter rush and allow ample time for any repairs to be completed. A cleaning with a CCP-certified chimney sweep will remove harmful byproducts that coat the liner. If left uncleaned, debris build-up can cause an unsafe obstruction and produce an ugly smell when mixed with summer humidity. A professional chimney inspection will identify problems that you may have been unaware of, such as cracks, debris or blockage. Pro Tip: During your appointment, tell your technician about any changes you have observed with your fireplace or chimney, such as an odd smell or a new draft. They will take a closer look and suggest the right service or repair, if needed. 2. Check your chimney’s exterior surface. Early spring is an excellent time to inspect the outside of your chimney structure for cracks and crumbling masonry or brick. Cracks can allow water to seep in and cause damage. If you spot a problem, contact your CCP-certified chimney specialist for a consultation and if needed, schedule repairs in the summer - the perfect time of year for masonry work. 3. Examine your chimney’s interior components. Make sure your damper opens and closes completely. Over time, these units begin to wear and need replacing. If it doesn’t work properly, contact a chimney specialist for a replacement. Also, be sure your firebox is free of cracks and rust. These signs can lead to a serious problem and require a consultation with a chimney professional. 4. Remember to secure your firewood. Finally, line up your wood supply. The best time to collect and season your firewood is early spring so it’s ready for winter use. Other benefits include: Lower prices and increased availability: Buying now instead of waiting for cold weather to buy your firewood will save you money. Ample time for seasoning: If you want your firewood ready for the cool days of fall, now is the time to collect and store it on firewood racks so it can properly season. Elimination of insects: Insects living under the bark are dormant in early spring. When you store firewood in the spring for use next fall or winter, any insects will likely die before you bring the wood into your home. Chimney Cleaning, Maintenance, Repair, and Inspection in NH and MA The safety of your home and family can depend upon the condition of your fireplace and chimney. With proper service and maintenance, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re ready for a fire when the cold weather returns. Contact our CCP-certified chimney specialists today to schedule your springtime appointment. Powered by Sprout

Your chimney endures the elements year-round, but winter weather is the most notorious for causing damage to your system. Heavy amounts of snow and ice can lead to significant structural and operational problems with your chimney. If left unrepaired, these problems can put your home and family’s safety in jeopardy. The pros at Admiralty Chimney have seen firsthand the impact winter conditions can have on chimneys, and share their know-how in this month’s blog. Here are four ways winter can compromise your chimney: 1. Chimney Flashing Damage Flashing consists of fitted metal sheets installed to create a watertight connection between your chimney and roof. Heavy snow can cause it to bend under the weight of the snow, allowing water from melted snow to easily flow into your chimney. Failed flashing can cause water leaks that damage the wooden structure around your chimney as well as your ceiling and walls. 2. Masonry Damage It’s not just snow or ice that wreaks havoc on your chimney. Temperature fluctuations also cause damage to your masonry over time. When snow melts in the afternoon sun, porous brick masonry will absorb the moisture. As the temperature dips below freezing, that moisture turns to ice, expanding and causing cracks in the bricks. As this freeze/thaw process continues, the spalling bricks can damage your chimney crown, bricks, and mortar. This type of problem can lead to serious structural and safety issues if left unrepaired. 3. Cracked Chimney Moisture that seeps through the porous bricks slowly erodes them over time. During the winter, frigid temperatures can cause the trapped water to freeze inside the bricks, causing cracks. Depending on the state of your flue liner, brick cracks can interrupt the proper airflow of your chimney. In some cases, this may not be noticeable, but in severe cases, it can be a precursor to a chimney fire. 4. Blocked Chimney When snow builds up on your roof, it can eventually block your chimney. Using your fireplace when your chimney is blocked puts your home at risk of a carbon monoxide buildup or fire. Don’t assume the hot air from a fire will cause sufficient melting. If your chimney is blocked, air isn’t going to come in, nor is it going to come out, jeopardizing the safety of your home and family. Inspection is your best detection. No matter the season, your chimney will show signs of wear and tear over time. It’s an important preventative maintenance task to periodically check your chimney for any damage or disruption in operation. Equally important is maintaining regular chimney inspections with an experienced technician. They have the skilled perspective and equipment to assess your chimney system from the inside out. And they offer techniques to help prevent future damage. Chimney Inspection, Cleaning and Repair in NH and MA If you suspect a problem with your fireplace and chimney, contact the trusted CCP-certified chimney professionals at Admiralty Chimney. We can inspect your chimney, identify any potential risks, and schedule needed repairs so you can have peace of mind. Powered by Sprout

As homeowners, we often forget that the tallest point of our home is the most vulnerable to the elements. And when it comes to your chimney, rain, snow, and ice can be a major problem. Water damage can compromise your chimney’s structural integrity, cause mold growth, and create other serious problems. Knowing the signs and causes of chimney water damage can help you address it before it becomes a serious and costly issue. Signs of Water Damage Water leaks can appear in many different forms, both on the interior and exterior of your home and chimney. The most common include: Peeling wallpaper, water stains, discoloration, visible leaks and moisture on the walls or ceilings around your chimney. A musty odor from your fireplace — especially after heavy rains. Water or condensation inside your fireplace. The presence of thin tile shards from the flue liner inside the firebox. Problems with the interior or exterior masonry such as cracks or spalling, and missing mortar. Efflorescence, a white chalky residue on your chimney’s surface. Rust or decay on your chimney’s metal components, including the damper, fireplace doors, and frames. What Causes Chimney Leaks? Wet weather and high winds cause wear and tear on your chimney. Overtime, materials break down, and water gets inside. The most common causes of chimney leaks include: A Damaged or Missing Chimney Cap – A damaged or missing chimney cap can’t keep out rain, sleet and snow. Poorly Installed or Damaged Metal Flashing – Improperly installed or damaged flashing won’t be able to hold a waterproof seal between your chimney and roof. Cracked Chimney Crown – Cracks in your chimney crown allow water to leak into the flue lining. Damaged or Spalling Brickwork – Eventually all masonry chimneys start to crack, especially when regular maintenance is neglected. Deteriorated Mortar Joints – As brick masonry chimneys crack, the mortar joints start to deteriorate. When bricks lack proper mortar, rain water, snow, and other bad weather will eat away at your chimney, causing it to crumble over time. Fixing and Preventing Future Damage Before you repair any chimney damage, identify its root cause by scheduling a professional inspection. After assessing your chimney, your technician may advise you to: Repair or replace flashing or sealant around the chimney. Install a new chimney cap. Repair or replace damaged mortar or metal components of the chimney. Repair damaged masonry. Apply waterproof sealant to your chimney’s exterior. Benefits of Annual Inspections and Routine Maintenance Rain, snow, hail, wind, and temperature changes are constantly in motion, causing deterioration to your chimney. That’s why it’s important to have your chimney checked each year. An annual cleaning and inspection will ensure your chimney system and its components are working properly, and identify small problems before they become larger issues. Chimney Inspection, Cleaning, Maintenance and Repair in NH and MA By being aware of the signs of chimney water damage and taking steps to fix it, you will increase the lifespan of your chimney, ensuring it operates safely and efficiently for years to come. When was the last time you had your chimney cleaned and inspected? Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our CCP-certified chimney professionals. Powered by Sprout

Autumn is approaching, making now the best time to get your fireplace ready to use during the chilly months ahead. Preparing your system ensures it’s performing at its best this burning season. Before you light your first fire, be sure you’ve completed these seven steps. 1. Schedule a professional inspection. We recommend that all chimneys be professionally inspected and cleaned at least once a year, or about once every 80 fires. A thorough cleaning will remove any buildup of creosote, a highly flammable byproduct of burning wood, giving you a safer fireplace. Your technician will inspect for worn parts, cracks, leaks and other issues with your chimney and fireplace that may cause a safety hazard or loss of function. Pro Tip: During the inspection, tell your technician about any changes you have noticed from your chimney, such as a different smell, a new draft, and any other abnormalities. 2. Check the chimney cap. A chimney should be capped with wire-mesh sides to keep leaves, rain, birds, and debris out. Unwanted nests and other blockages are a leading cause of chimney fires. During an inspection, your CCP-certified chimney specialist will check your cap to be sure it’s in good condition and securely fitted. If it is damaged or missing, your specialist can repair or replace it. 3. Test the damper. The damper regulates the airflow inside your chimney. It should be closed when you aren’t using your fireplace, and opened when you want to start a fire. Make sure the damper works by opening and closing it. You can generally tell when the damper is open if you can feel a breeze or see up the flue when you peek your head in. 4. Trim trees near the roof and chimney. Prune any overhanging tree limbs that may be encroaching on your chimney. Tree branches present a fire hazard, can damage the cap during a storm, and restrict the proper draft of the chimney. 5. Stock up on seasoned firewood. Choose dense or hardwood that’s been split and stored in a high and dry place for at least six months. Green or wet wood, and softwoods like pine, produce more creosote. Store wood in a covered space outdoors and away from your house so it doesn’t attract pests into your home. 6. Clear the clutter from around the fireplace. When you don’t use your fireplace between seasons, clutter naturally tends to fill up the surrounding area. Before you start your first fire, be sure to clear the clutter away from the fireplace to avoid fire hazards. Make sure anything flammable, such as furniture and rugs, are a safe distance from your hearth. 7. Replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors keep everyone in your home safe. Replace the batteries and run monthly tests to ensure the alarms will work when you need them. Chimney Cleaning, Inspection, Service, and Repair in NH and MA A proactive approach to fireplace and chimney maintenance ensures your system is ready for the upcoming burning season. If you need help, contact our CCP-certified team. We’re a full-service chimney company that delivers expertise, with an attention to detail and uncompromised customer service for all of your fireplace and chimney needs. Powered by Sprout