How often should I have my chimney inspected and cleaned?
At Wells & Sons Chimney & Fireplace Service, we align with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard, which recommends that your chimney, fireplace, and vents be inspected at least once a year. Sweeping is performed as needed during your annual inspection whenever soot or creosote buildup is detected to ensure your system remains safe and efficient.
Why do I need my chimney inspected?
The National Fire Protection Association, states that chimney’s should be inspected or cleaned annually. Chimneys; which typically vent fireplaces and or furnace and hot water heaters; can deteriorate over time. Annual inspections can alert you to a potential problem before it becomes a costly repair or a safety issue. You should look for chimney professionals and companies that are certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America.
How long does a chimney inspection and cleaning take?
A standard chimney inspection and sweeping appointment with Wells & Sons Chimney & Fireplace Service typically takes about 1 hour to complete. Our certified technicians work efficiently while using dust-containment systems to keep your home clean throughout the process.
What is Creosote? And why is it dangerous?
When you burn wood or other fossil fuels, the goal is to burn them as completely as possible. But if airflow is not adequate, you starve the fire of an essential component of combustion, which leads to incomplete burning. As this incomplete combustion occurs, the smoke rises, cools, and condenses on the walls of your chimney. This product is called creosote. Creosote is a highly flammable byproduct and can seep out into the chimney cavity if flue tiles are not intact. If the creosote ignites, this can be dangerous as it can damage and split flue tiles, and even lead to a structure fire.
Should I upgrade to a stove or fireplace insert?
Traditional open fireplaces lose a significant amount of heat up the flue. Installing a wood or pellet-burning insert or freestanding stove greatly improves heat efficiency and warmth while reducing heating costs. We handle sales, installation, and ongoing maintenance.
What is the difference between a chimney cap, crown, and chase cover?
A chimney cap covers the opening at the top to keep rain, debris, and animals out. A chimney crown is a concrete slab poured over the top brick layer to shed water away from the masonry. A chase cover is a metal top used on prefabricated or wood-framed chimneys. All three protect against costly water damage.
Why is my dryer vent cleaning important?
Lint build-up in dryer vents is a leading cause of residential fires and reduces your dryer's efficiency. Regular cleaning prevents fire hazards, lowers energy bills, and extends the lifespan of your appliance.
Why is water getting into my chimney?
Water is a chimney’s worst enemy. It works in through a cracked crown, a missing cap, bad flashing, or unsealed masonry and it does slow, expensive damage over time. A cap, a crown repair, or a waterproofing package usually solves it.
