As summer winds down, the evenings become cooler and cooler until the A/C is off for good. The fall, leading into the holidays, may be the most popular for fireplaces. So start now, and you’ll be ready.
Routine Maintenance
Follow the advisement of industry professionals and have your chimney routinely swept. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) also recommend annual inspections for the safest and most efficient chimney system. These appointments may be the only time throughout the year that a certified chimney sweep has access to your chimney, and can identify weaknesses, concerns, and hazards. Not sure you need an inspection? Familiarize yourself with the CSIA inspection and when to schedule yours.
Schedule Repairs NOW
You have a few more weeks to get repairs and upgrades completed before burn season starts. Scheduling necessary repairs and services now means you can avoid the fall rush. If you wait until fall, you may not get an appointment when you need one. Don’t get left in the cold. Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep offers all of our chimney services year-round because we know summer is a great time for chimney work!
Waterproofing
Your chimney is subject to weather year-round, but is especially vulnerable during the winter, when snow sits on the chimney and flashing and melts slowly. During these months, water is also subject to a freeze/thaw cycle that can damage your masonry from the inside out. Once water penetrates the masonry, it freezes, expands, melts, and repeats this process, breaking through the masonry each time. This freeze/thaw cycle causes spalling and serious water damage to the chimney interior. If left unchecked, rain will have direct access to the chimney system this spring. The best way to prevent water penetration this winter is to make sure your chimney has an effective cap, crown, and flashing – all checked during your inspection.
Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep also applies a vapor-permeable sealant for added water protection. In fact, we apply this sealant for FREE on all of our masonry repairs because we know it works, and our first priority is your safety. This waterproofing sealant protects your masonry all winter long, decreasing winter damage and preventing chimney leaks. By protecting your chimney this winter, you will have a more efficient fire and safe chimney.
Is your fireplace and chimney ready for winter? Then the only thing left to do is to prepare your fuel. Do you have a wood fireplace, insert, or stove? Then you should have already started gathering properly seasoned wood. If you are unsure about fuel, appliances, tools, or fire safety, you can contact a Billy Sweet professional now. Call 617-469-4528 or use our convenient online form.