It’s starting to get real cold out and holidays are coming which means we got to get the fireplace ready! No matter what type of fireplace you have or if it’s just a show fireplace, it’s time for some maintenance. Let get it ready to warm up the house, set the mood, and look spectacular for these holiday parties.
Let’s Clean!
One of the most important things to do when taking care of your fireplace and chimney is to clean it. Before cleaning, make sure the gas is off if it’s a gas fireplace. Clear out all the old ash and debris, giving it a good wipe down with a stiff bristle brush and cleaning solution. It’ll help to lay down a tarp or some kind of sheet to keep the mess off the floor.
Cleaning the chimney takes much more effort and may require a professional. Creosote is a substance that gets built up in the chimney and cause fires, so the main goal is to clean as much of this off as possible. However, there are parts of the chimney that are hard to reach like the smoke chamber and shelf, so this is where having professionals can help. This will help lessen the chances of creosote fires which are very hard to put out.
Structural Integrity
Checking the structural integrity of the chimney and roof is also very important. Any damage to the chimney cap, flashing, or surrounding shingles can cause quite the inconvenience like leaks or bugs entering your home.
Water can easily leak in through the flashing and shingles by the chimney if they are damaged or lifting. Getting those replaced as soon as detected will prevent further damage to the chimney, roof and fireplace. It’s also a good idea to check the vents to make sure no bugs get in and make a home out of your chimney.
To prepare for the winter months, make sure to check if there is anything that needs replacing or fixing, and clean out everything before use. This will ensure you can enjoy your time with a nice fire without worrying.
If there is anything that needs replacing or just a professional checkup, call for a chimney sweep or give us a call at (703) 404-0505 to talk to a roofing expert.