Is your Chimney Fall Ready?

Months have passed, and you may already be anticipating your first fire of the fall season. Should you wait till it actually starts getting cold, or wait for the first snowfall? The best time to start getting ready is now.

These four tips will have your chimney performing well, and you will be able to snuggle up to the fire in no time. 

Have your chimney inspected and cleaned

 Your chimney has been through a lot. Rain, heat, and cold could be just around the corner. Getting an inspection will allow you to stay one step ahead of possible issues. Whether a bird has made a nest in your chimney or summer rains have caused water damage. Whatever it is, it’s best to know now. It’s important to have an inspection, especially if you have moved into a new home and have never used the fireplace before. Creosote builds up against the walls of your chimney and not only hinders your chimney’s performance, but it is also highly flammable. Most chimney fires are caused by severe creosote buildup.  Be sure and have your chimney cleaned before you light that first fire. 

Schedule Repairs

The earlier you schedule chimney and fireplace repairs the better, don’t wait until you put on the first sweater for fall because you won’t be the only one who needs repair at that time. Deciding to care for your chimney before the fall season will give you time to plan for repairs and hopefully keep you from being last in line. 

Cover Your Chimney

Fall weather can fill the chimney with leaves, branches, snow, animal nests, and more things you probably don’t want to think about. Make sure your chimney cap is in good condition.  A chimney cap is a covering over the top of your chimney that will keep all the small critters out and help you maintain a clear chimney, while allowing smoke to escape. Ask your chimney sweep about all of the styles available and get one at the start of the season to prevent trouble down the road. 

Maintain your hearth and firebox

When we think about the chimney, we often neglect the firebox and the hearth, but they are all a part of the system that creates good air flow. Clean the firebox and hearth after each use. Don’t forget to move furniture and other items at least 3 ft away. This is also a great time to open and shut your damper to make sure it is clear and still in working order. These things may seem simple, but they are often the keys to good maintenance.

If you are looking forward to that warm glow of the fireplace, don’t wait; all it takes is one issue to catch you off guard and spoil your fall fun.  Schedule your inspection and cleaning today with Felgemacher Masonry and Chimney. We service Buffalo, NY, Rochester, NY, and many surrounding cities. Call us today!