All homeowners should prepare their chimney before using their fireplace for the first time in the winter season. This means that during sometime in the fall, they should conduct a full chimney inspection, cleaning, and address any repairs. Understand what you should do to prepare for your winter fires and why to never overlook this essential task.

Homeowner’s Guide to Pre-Winter Chimney Inspection & Preparation

How to Prepare the Chimney

Every year you should hire a professional to conduct a chimney sweep and inspection. They will clean the flue, removing any creosote buildup to prevent fires or impacted air flow. They will check for damage such as cracked mortar or a deteriorating chimney liner. They’ll make recommendations for any needed repairs.

You should also install a cap if you don’t have one, and check for damage if you do have one. A cap covers the top of the chimney to keep out precipitation and rodents. If you don’t have one, install a spark guard in front of your fireplace, which will prevent sparks from flying out into your home and starting a fire or burning someone.

Why It’s Important

The biggest concerns with an improperly maintained chimney are fires and smoke. The creosote buildup that occurs on the inside of the chimney, for example, is highly flammable and will start a fire if it encounters a spark. Without caps and spark guards, embers can also fly out of the top of the chimney or through the front of the fireplace to start fires. Any impacted air flow, such as from a damaged chimney or critters making a nest inside of it, will send the smoke back into your home instead of safely releasing it outdoors. Breathing smoke and its poisonous fumes cause health issues ranging from carbon monoxide poisoning to chronic lung diseases. Chimney inspections can help identify any of these issues, giving you time to address the problem before use of your fireplace.

Abbey Road Chimney Sweeps has been servicing Dayton, OH, and the surrounding area with expert chimney inspection services and care since 1982.  Their professionals are highly experienced and utilize continuing education to stay current with techniques, technology, and building requirements. See their full range of services online and call (937) 833-0505 to schedule your inspection before winter arrives!