Your chimney is more than just an attractive feature on your home — it also plays an essential role in keeping your family warm during the cold winter months. Unfortunately, a dirty or damaged chimney will not only function poorly, but it could also pose a safety hazard. As the team at The Chimney Sweep in Kernersville, NC, explains, regular chimney cleaning prevents these problems. However, it is important to watch out for key signs your chimney could use some help.

Top 5 Signs You Need Chimney Cleaning

1. Strange Noises

One of the last things you need is a bird or squirrel getting trapped in your chimney. Unusual sounds could be the indicator of a pest living in your chimney, in which case, you should call a cleaning professional as soon as possible.

2. Soot Buildup

Soot will gradually accumulate as you continue to use your fireplace and should be cleaned out regularly. If the soot is 1/8 of inch thick, you should schedule a cleaning — and if it’s thicker, you should stop using your fireplace until it is cleaned.

3. Creosote Glaze

Creosote, which is much more dangerous than ordinary soot, may appear as a tar or glaze in your chimney flue. Using your fireplace when creosote appears could cause a fire, so schedule a chimney cleaning immediately.

4. Poor Performance

If your chimney doesn’t seem to be working as it should or is producing a lot of smoke (due to exterior cracks or other causes), call a professional to find the source of the problem.

5. Time

In general, it’s recommended to have your chimney cleaned at least once a year. However, homes that use their fireplace more frequently should be cleaned more often. Consult with your local chimney sweep for specific recommendations.

From chimney cleaning to fireplace repair, the team at The Chimney Sweep will help your family stay safe and warm this winter. To learn more about their chimney maintenance services, visit them online or call (336) 993-8999.