Signs Your Chimney or Fireplace Needs Servicing

Chimneys are a low cleaning and maintenance priority in most homes. Much of the chimney is unseen, and “out of sight, out of mind” is how many homeowners approach chimney service care.

Indications your chimney or fireplace needs attention

Take a look at the obvious:

• Crumbling mortar or brick on the outside near your chimney
• Water stains on the ceiling or walls around your fireplace
• Chimney Cap or Crown is damaged or missing
• Sounds of animals coming from the fireplace
• Water dripping into the firebox (where the fire burns)
• A funny or moldy odor coming from the fireplace

Most of the above is a direct result of nature.  If you live in a place with extreme temperature changes, chimneys are exposed to the cycle of freezing and thawing.  Those changes will eventually take a toll on the brickwork.  Cracks will begin small and grow over time, allowing rainwater to enter your chimney.

Wherever water leaks occur, stains and mold are sure to follow.  Water causes the funny smell coming from your chimney and the water stains on walls and ceilings.  Are there puddles on the floor of the firebox?  An uncapped chimney may be to blame.

Animals are always looking for a safe place to nest that is out of reach of predators.  A chimney is an ideal place for birds, squirrels and even raccoons to shelter, so if your chimney is missing its cap, there is basically a ‘vacancy’ sign for animals.

Not so noticeable indications of chimney issues

• Loose flashing
• Creosote build-up/Chimney fires
• Fires have trouble staying lit
• Smokey build-up inside your home
• Carbon Monoxide poisoning

Loose-fitting flashing is not easy to spot unless you are on the roof.  It is also the cause of multiple problems.  If you don’t like heights, this is another reason to call an expert on chimney repair.

Creosote is a build-up of sticky tar from burning fossil fuels.  As it thickens, it obstructs ventilation. This tar is highly flammable and under the right conditions can cause a chimney fire.  If enough creosote builds up in a chimney, it will cause carbon monoxide to back up into the home.  Carbon monoxide is an odorless, invisible, lethal gas.  If enough of it is inhaled, it can be deadly.

Scheduling a chimney service and repair company to clean and inspect your chimney is the easiest and safest way to ensure you and your family’s well-being.

Your fireplace and chimney will be cleaned, ridding your chimney of any debris.  Once your chimney is cleaned, the technician will inspect the firebox do a thorough assessment of the chimney’s inside and outside.  If there is any chimney damage or missing components, he or she will recommend repairs or replacements.

At Above and Beyond Chimney Service, we take extraordinary care of our customers.  We will arrive on time; clean, service and make repair suggestions. Our techs go through rigorous and continuous training at regular intervals, and we use the finest  materials available.

 

If you suspect your chimney might have a problem, please call us; we are here to help.

Above and Beyond Chimney Services

Doane Street, Cohasset MA 02025

(781) 383-9415

Allied Drive, Dedham MA 02026

(781) 355-6779