Spring Cleaning Checklist
After countless, harrowing months of utter darkness and desolation, it’s finally looking like spring! The birds are chirping, the rabbits are multiplying, and the dogs are occasionally willing to venture more than a few feet away from the fireplace again.
Of course, after a full season of regular usage, your fireplace and chimney are now looking somewhat worse for wear. If you want to keep your chimney in good shape for icy seasons to come, add these quick tips to your spring cleaning checklist:
1) Chimney cap
Your chimney cap is what prevents water and debris from going down your flue. However, it should also allow smoke to be released (otherwise your chimney is not of much use, eh?)—so make sure it’s snug, but also that it is free on any obstructions.
2) Chimney crown
The chimney crown is the mortar/concrete fixture that seals the top of your chimney. Any leakage here can lead to significant structural damage for your chimney. As long as you’re on the roof, use the old eyeball test to survey the crown for any cracks, big or small.
3) Chimney exterior
The same principle applies to the rest of your chimney, as well. While the crown is your chimney’s first line of defense against moisture and precipitation, leakage can occur anywhere on your chimney that is compromised. While you can use sealant to cover some small cracks, crumbling brick/masonry is a good sign that you need professional chimney repair.
4) Chimney flashing
“Flashing” is the technical term for the material that seals the gap between the chimney and roof. Faulty seals can spell disaster for your entire roof if left unchecked. Look closely for cracks and gaps in the flashing.
5) Flue
Unfortunately, this one is all but impossible to check yourself. Unless you have an extra long selfie stick, it will be tough to get the depth and angles you need to determine the level of creosote buildup and/or structural damage in your flue. For this step—and any of the maintenance the above steps demand—it’s best to call your local chimney professionals for help.
And who better to call than Chimney Monkey? We’re so obsessed with chimneys you could even say we go “bananas” for them! All jokes aside, we are one of the most trusted and fastest-growing chimney and home services companies in the Chicagoland area.
Call us today for a free quote on your chimney inspection, cleaning, or repair: 847-994-4388
