Chimney cleaning logs tend to give the impression that they are all you need to keep your chimney properly maintained. While they may do some good in preventing build-up to occur, they do not adequately clean your chimney, which is an important requirement in chimney care. A regular chimney sweeping and maintenance done by a professional is important in keeping your fireplace healthy and safe for use.
Why Cleanings Are Important
It is essential that a chimney is properly cleaned and inspected annually. There are many reasons why this is so important. Here are just a few:
- Ensuring Safety: Calling a professional in to inspect and clean your chimney, will ensure that any creosote build-up is avoided. While many try to take on this task themselves, this is not advised. Creosote is highly flammable and can cause house fires, endangering your home and family. An expert will know where to look and what chemicals and tools are needed to remove all excess debris.
- Maintaining Appearance: Cracks and discoloration start to occur when regular chimney maintenance is put off. Fireplaces are known for adding beauty and a cozy atmosphere to any home. Unfortunately, this is too often ruined by lack of care on the part of the homeowner. Regular upkeep will prevent this from occurring.
- Preventing Smoke Build-Up: If a chimney is plugged up, smoke will have no place to escape. This will cause it to come back into your house, allowing for an uncomfortable atmosphere and a home filled with potentially hazardous fumes. This is not only unsanitary, but may cause health issues for those living in the home.
- Avoiding Further Damage: The more that cracks and debris are allowed to build-up, the more damage they will do in the long run. Easy fixes turn into expensive repairs when they are not addressed soon enough. A professional will be able to note any of these right away and fix them before they turn into something worse.
Hire a CSIA Professional
The CSIA (Chimney Safety Institute of America) recommends getting a cleaning and inspection done by a professional at least once per year. They do not disapprove the use of chimney cleaning logs, but stress that they should not be relied on as a replacement for regular cleanings.
A professional will make sure that debris is adequately removed so that your fireplace is safe to use. They also can ensure that any blockage (such as leaves or animal nests) are removed, allowing smoke to escape efficiently. On top of everything, an expert can offer advice and insight that chimney cleaning logs obviously cannot.
Contact Wells & Sons Chimney Service today to schedule a chimney sweeping and inspection. We service Montgomery County, PA and the surrounding areas including Pottstown, Gilbertsville, Allentown, and Norristown. Our professionals will ensure that your fireplace is up to code and safe for use throughout the cold months that are upon us.