Getting your chimney cleaned and maintained regularly is the most important responsibility you have if you use your fireplace. It’s also important to have the work done by a professional chimney sweep, whether you need a basic cleaning or new chimney caps in Atlanta. Chimneys and fireplaces can be dangerous if not cared for correctly, and there’s no reason to take a chance on your safety!
Reduce Your Chance of Fire
The number one reason to have your chimney cleaned regularly is to reduce your chances of a home fire. The creosote that builds up in your chimney is flammable and can set your whole house on fire if a spark catches it. This creosote can’t be cleared away by creosote-sweeping logs, and it’s nearly impossible to remove all of it yourself. A professional chimney sweep in Alpharetta has the tools and experience necessary to keep your chimney as clean and safe as possible.
Reduce Repair Costs
A regularly cleaned and maintained chimney will last longer than one that’s neglected. You’ll also have fewer repair bills over the years. Your chimney sweep can also install chimney caps in Alpharetta and other features that will help protect your chimney and prolong its life. A chimney cap keeps rain, leaves, and more from entering your chimney so it can stay as clean and dry as possible. Other features like chimney liners make your chimney safer and reduce the need for chimney repair in Alpharetta.
Get Rid of Bad Smells
Chimneys that haven’t been cleaned for a long time can start to emit unpleasant smells. Sometimes the smell comes from the smoke and creosote itself. Other times, sticks, leaves, and other debris can clog your chimney and get moldy or rotten. Even small animals like mice and squirrels can make their way into your chimney. If their droppings start piling up or one of them dies inside your chimney, you’ll be stuck with quite the odor in your living room!
Avoid Smoke Damage
Creosote buildup in your chimney makes the chimney narrower and increases the amount of smoke that stays in your home. This smoke can cling to your clothes, furniture, and other belongings to the point that they can become unusable. It can also cause sooty stains on your walls and floors that are nearly impossible to remove. Regular chimney cleaning in Atlanta keeps your home well ventilated so the smoke can escape up and out of your home.
Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
In serious cases, clogged chimneys can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, which causes illness and even death. Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels are burned, and in well-ventilated rooms it isn’t a problem. However, if it’s trapped in your home by a chimney clogged with creosote and other debris, it can be extremely dangerous to you and your family. Thousands of people in the United States die each year because of carbon monoxide poisoning, and many more suffer ill effects like nausea, dizziness, and confusion. Keep your family safe by having your chimney cleaned at least once a year by a chimney sweep, and more often if you use your fireplace regularly.