With the weather changing and winter fast approaching, you’re probably looking forward to curling up in front of the fireplace and hunkering down. If you haven’t performed the necessary maintenance on your chimney, you may not be able to enjoy the comfort of your fireplace as much as you’d hoped. To stay warm and happy during the cold weather, here are a few reasons to begin your chimney cleaning in Dallas now.
Fire Risk Reduction
As you burn wood in your fireplace, creosote is released. If the wood you burn is unseasoned or has been treated with preservatives, it will release even more creosote than normal. Over time, this blackish-brown, sticky substance builds up in your flue. Due to the extreme flammability of creosote, it’s important to reduce this buildup. Sweeping your chimney is the only way to get rid of the tar-like film. Plus, sweeping your chimney will remove any debris or birds’ nests that may have become lodged inside during the summer. Once the creosote and debris are removed, your risk of a chimney fire is greatly reduced.
Thorough Inspection
When you hire a chimney sweeping company to perform routine maintenance, they’ll do much more than simply sweep out the flue. They’ll also perform an extensive inspection. After a careful examination of the brick, chimney, damper system, and fireplace, your professional chimney company will notify you if any issues are found. If any problems are present, they can be fixed before they cause even more damage.
Extend the Life of Your Flue
Like any other part of your home, your chimney and flue have an expiration date. While your fireplace and coordinating parts should last for decades, that lifespan could be shortened without proper maintenance. When soot and creosote aren’t removed regularly, they trap moisture against the surface of your flue. Over time, this causes deterioration and decay. To ensure that your fireplace remains in excellent condition for years to come, invest in regular chimney cleaning.
Improved Heating Efficiency
Chances are, your fireplace isn’t just for show. In most homes, the fireplace is a source of heat. That’s one of the biggest reasons regular chimney sweeping is important. If your flue is blocked with debris or creosote, it’s impossible for a fire to burn and heat your home properly. Because your chimney guides smoke and other harmful gases out of your home, it’s important that it remains unobstructed. A blocked flue not only puts you and your family at risk of inhaling smoke, but it can also cause your home’s walls and furnishings to be covered in creosote.
Insurance Reasons
If you examine your homeowner’s insurance policy, there could be a clause that includes your chimney’s cleaning requirements. Many policies require that chimneys are professionally cleaned at least once a year. While you may be tempted to perform the regular maintenance on your own, it’s always better to leave it to the professionals. A professional chimney cleaning company will provide proof that they performed a sweep on your flue and chimney. Then, if a fire does erupt, you have the necessary proof to ensure that your insurance company will cover the damage.
Scheduling chimney repair and cleaning in Dallas, GA, isn’t just beneficial for your health, it’s necessary for the safety of your home. Before the weather starts to turn, make sure you enlist the help of a professional chimney sweep company to ensure your family’s comfort this winter.