What Do You Call Someone Who Fixes Chimneys?

How Can I Tell If My Chimney Needs Repairs?

There are many benefits to having a fireplace in your home. You have access to cozy and warm fires whenever you want, you can lower your energy bills, and don’t forget how great your stockings look on the mantle at Christmas. 

But, do you know what to do when you start experiencing problems with your fireplace? How do you know when the job is too big for you to handle on your own? When it comes to chimneys for furnaces and fireplaces, some of the most common signs there may be a problem include:

• Changes in Performance: Have you ever had difficulties starting a fire or keeping the furnace running? Poor draft can be a result of multiple things like a bad damper, blockages from debris or nests, and leaks. Sometimes, poor draft can even cause your home to quickly fill with smoke. The only person that can determine the root of your issue is a certified chimney technician. The solution could be as easy as replacing your damper or booking a chimney sweeping. But all we know for sure is that the first place to start is with a proper inspection of your chimney. 
• Water Damage: If you look on the ceiling surrounding your chimney, do you notice discoloration or water stains? Water is a chimney’s greatest enemy because it can cause widespread damage including rust to your damper or firebox, cracks to the brick and mortar, and, in extreme cases, wood rot to your home’s structure. Repeat cycles of water freezing and thawing can also cause your entire chimney to deteriorate and crack. While you might be more inclined to contact a roofer for a leaking chimney, you would be better off contacting a licensed chimney professional. They have much more knowledge and experience to handle all of your chimney concerns. 
• Cracks and Deterioration: Have you ever checked the exterior of your chimney for cracks or large gaps? Every winter, small amounts of water can get in between the bricks of your chimney. As it freezes and thaws and freezes and thaws, it causes the cracks to get larger and larger over time. This is very hard on brick and stone chimneys. An inspection will be able to tell us how extensive the damage is and the appropriate steps to getting your chimney as good as new.
• Animal Infestation: The tell-tale sign you have animals in your chimney is by hearing a rustling, scratching, clawing, or flapping noise above the fireplace. You may also find nest materials and animal droppings. What you don’t want to try and do is start a fire in hopes of smoking them out. That will most likely kill them. Instead, rely on Winston’s Chimney Services to safely and humanely drive those animals from your chimney and clean out the debris they left behind.