Chimney and Fireplace Maintenance and Inspections
Cleaning and Inspection
Masonry Fireplace
Your masonry fireplace needs regular care and cleaning to assure a safe and efficient fire. Creosote, a flammable tarlike substance that accumulates in the chimney and flue, should be removed by a professional, eliminating the worry of at least one potential fire hazard. A routine cleaning and inspection throughout the wood-burning season will eliminate a potentially dangerous accumulation of soot, ashes, and creosote tars.
We cover the area around the fireplace with drop sheets then inspect the fireplace, box, and damper. We close the damper and seal the front of the fireplace with plastic. We then go on roof and remove the chimney cap so we can Inspect the chimney and flue from the roof. We then brush the Flue from the roof using the appropriate cleaning brushes, the smoke chamber is also brushed and cleaned thoroughly. We remove the front cover seal and vaccuum out the debris from the smoke chamber, shelf, and firebox. We then clean up the whole area and remove tarps.
Cleaning and Inspection
Woodstove
Use of a wood stove requires regular attention to a few maintenance procedures; Proper cleaning of the chimney to remove creosote deposits, and regular inspection of the installation and handling of ashes. Stove pipe is subjected to high temperatures and will corrode in time. It must be checked periodically and replaced when it appears to be corroding beyond safe limits.
Cleaning and Inspection
Inserts
All inserts must have an approved stainless steel liner connected from the insert collar to the top of the flue, by code, in order to properly clean system.
Cleaning and Inspections
Blockages & Animals
It is important to clean and perform an inspection on your chimney on an annual basis to prevent problems such as animals and blockages.
PROBLEM AREAS
Chimney Smoke Repair
There are numerious reasons as to why a system smokes or backdrafts. The following diagrams illustrate some of the common problems and remedies that exist.