by Billy Sweet | Mar 27, 2015 | Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide is a dangerous gas that can cause poisoning when you are exposed to it. It is a particularly dangerous threat because it is odorless, colorless and otherwise undetectable to the naked eye. When you are exposed to carbon monoxide you inhale the fumes, which prevents oxygen from reaching your organs. The most important thing you can do to protect you and your family from carbon monoxide dangers is to prevent exposure in the first place.
How Does Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Occur?
Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs in several ways, but in residential homes the most common way is through the misuse of heating appliances. In homes where wood-burning heating appliances are used, by-products can be left behind in chimneys. Soot, animal debris and flaked off masonry can all lead to dangerous toxins being release inside the home. Additionally, homes that aren’t well-ventilated can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning because there isn’t efficient air-flow while heating appliances are in use. Lastly, misuse of heating appliances can lead to poisoning, especially if inappropriate materials are being used or the operator doesn’t understand all components of the appliance.
Damaged Chimneys Can Lead To Carbon Monoxide Dangers
In homes where chimneys are older or have not been properly maintained chimneys can become blocked or rusted and this can result in carbon monoxide and other toxins being released into the air. Backdrafting, a common occurrence when chimney dampers and flues are not operating properly, can also lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Symptoms Of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
If you suspect you or someone in your home is suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning, look for these common symptoms:
- Headache
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Loss of vision
- Loss of consciousness
While these symptoms may seem subtle, they are life threatening. If you see any of these symptoms, remove everyone from the area and get emergency medical care immediately.
Luckily for homeowners, there are ways to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning including:
- Invest in a carbon monoxide detector that will alert you if the dangerous gas is detected.
- Never use stand-alone heating appliances like space heaters in small, enclosed areas.
- Only use wood-burning appliances in well-ventilated areas.
- Make sure you understand how to operate ALL components of your chimney before you light your first fire.
- Only burn appropriate, chemical and paint free wood in your wood-burning appliance.
- Inspect your heating equipment before use to make sure it is operating properly.
The single most important thing you can do as a homeowner is have your chimney professionally swept and inspected at least once a year. Hire a professional and experienced chimney sweeping company like Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep serving the Boston, North Shore and Portland areas to inspect, repair and if necessary, rebuild your chimney. Having an airtight chimney with a working damper and flue is the best way to prevent carbon monoxide build-up from your heating system. Our certified chimney sweeps are ready to inspect your chimneys and recommend any necessary add-ons or repairs. Contact the best in chimney sweeping to keep your home free of carbon monoxide dangers.
by Billy Sweet | Mar 10, 2015 | Chimney Flashing
The bad news is that your roof may leak from time to time, especially after heavy rain or snowfall. The good news is that often the repair is as simple as replacing the flashing, rather than replacing the entire roof. Chimney flashing is not a shingle, but rather a detail that is installed in order to seal the joints that connect the roof to the chimney. These joints are not water tight, so thorough, professionally installed chimney flashing will help keep water away from your chimney. The result is not only a dry chimney, but also a dry and protected home interior.
Types Of Chimney Flashing
There are a few different types of chimney flashing. Aluminum is common and inexpensive, however it is susceptible to corrosion, so it may need to be replaced every so often. Vinyl is another popular choice because it is still affordable but not as durable as other materials. Vinyl can become brittle and crack under harsh weather conditions and like aluminum will probably need to be replaced. On the other hand, steel is more expensive and takes longer to install, but is one of the more durable choices because it will not corrode. Similarly, copper flashing is the most widely recommended material for flashing because it will not corrode or crack but is lightweight like vinyl. Keep in mind, copper is the more expensive option, but after initial installation copper will not need to be replaced and will likely last as long as your roof.
Without Flashing You Can Damage Your Chimney
As a homeowner, if you are wondering whether or not flashing is important, let us save you some time. Flashing is very important! Without proper protection from external elements, your chimney could be vulnerable to water damage. Chimneys are made from brick and concrete, and if exposed to rain and snowfall over time, these materials can chip, crack and crumble. The result is almost always expensive chimney repairs that could have been avoided. If you do not install proper flashing you could be damaging your roof, and leaving your ceilings and wall treatments susceptible to leaks. Flashing is a simple and necessary installation that can save you a lot of homeowner headaches.
It is important to install flashing, but it is equally important to have your chimney inspected to make sure your chimney flashing is doing its job. Depending on the materials used in initial installation, the flashing material could have been damaged, or the joints could have loosened, which is why it is so important to have your chimney regularly inspected by a professional inspection company.
Always Have A Professional Install Your Chimney Flashing
Installing flashing is a task that is best left to the professionals. The experts at Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep in Boston have years of experience inspecting chimneys and making sure flashing is installed properly. If you attempt to install your own flashing you run the risk of installing it incorrectly as well as injuring yourself in the process. Trust the experts to help you maintain your home and recommend the chimney flashing products that are right for your chimney and right for your home maintenance budget.
by Billy Sweet | Feb 24, 2015 | Winter Chimney Damage
A lot of folks are thanking their lucky stars that March is finally rolling in. All over the United States there has been record-breaking winter weather; snow, sleet, hail and ice have all taken their toll on homes across America. If you use your fireplace or wood-burning stove to heat your home, then you’ve likely gotten your money’s worth this winter. Because of the drastic weather we’ve had this year, it’s more important than ever to stay on top of any chimney damage.
Ice Damming Can Damage Chimneys
Snow and ice build up is a serious concern for many homeowners when the weather gets cold. Ice damming is a real problem during the winter months, and this year has affected the Southeast United States more than usual. When rain and freezing rain hits a roof and freezes solid before it can drain through the gutters it can get trapped and cause what is known as an ice dam. This can cause terrible damage to your roof, but it can also damage the masonry of your chimneys. If you’ve had a lot of freezing rain, inspect your gutters and be sure to call a professional gutter cleaner if you suspect an ice dam.
Snow, Hail and Rain Inside Chimneys Can Cause Damage
If you’ve stayed diligent in your chimney repair and maintenance, you’ve likely installed a top sealing damper or a chimney cap. These easy-to-install add-ons to your chimney can prevent moisture from entering. Without them, the winter elements can leak into your chimney and cause serious problems. Not only can the moisture damage the brick and mortar of your chimneys, but also a build up of moisture can cause the fires in your fireplace or stove to not burn hot enough. Fires that aren’t burning hot enough are not only inefficient at heating your home, but can also leave behind creosote, a potentially harmful chemical trapped inside your chimney.
Prevention Is Key When Avoiding Winter Chimney Damage
With due diligence, you can keep your chimney and fireplace in top working order. As with many homeowner responsibilities, prevention is the best way to avoid costly and potentially dangerous damage to your home. Some additional steps you can take to avoid winter weather chimney damage are:
Have the inside of your chimney professionally lined to protect the inside.
Carefully inspect your roof and chimney after a big storm.
Have a professional remove ice build up from your gutters after a lot of rain or freezing rain.
Professionally clean your fireplace before and after the winter season.
A professional chimney sweeping company like Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep in the Boston, Massachusetts area can help maintain your chimney year after year. Before you light your first fire, have a certified inspector thoroughly inspect the interior and exterior of your chimney and fireplace. If your chimney sweeping company recommends masonry repairs have them completed well before you plan to use your chimney to heat your home. Not only will an inspection prevent costly damage, it will also help you burn efficient fires that will provide warmth and comfort during the worst winter weather.
by Billy Sweet | Feb 11, 2015 | Working In Boston
Working in Boston links you to the history and entrepreneurial spirit on which American Free Enterprise was built. Not only is Boston the birthplace of American freedom, throughout the years, Boston has proven to be a leader in national and international commerce. That’s why Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep is so proud we are part of the Boston business community.
Boston Harbor is the oldest in the country. John Smith discovered the port in 1614. The harbor is synonymous with the Boston Tea Party. By the 1660s Boston Harbor was the port for all arriving cargo ships bringing goods to New England. Today, Boston Harbor remains an important shipping port and many of the job opportunities are related to the maritime activities associated with the Port of Boston.
In addition to its strategic waterfront location, Boston has also grown into a technological, educational, and health care mecca for local, regional, national, and international businesses. As the capital of Massachusetts, there are civil and political employment opportunities, both local and state. At the crux of all business, is independent business. Boston is the place for entrepreneurs to build deep roots and showcase their talents and passions by providing products and services to those who live and work in the Boston area. There are over 800 restaurants in Boston and less than 40 of them are considered “fast food”. That means restaurants for lunch, after work get-togethers, dinner, and weekend food and entertainment venues are abundant for foodies and wait staff.
There are many characteristics that make working in Boston so special.
First and foremost are the people. Boston is a melting pot. Hardworking, determined settlers from across the globe came to Boston over the years in order to build a better life. Each generation has built on that foundation while growing Boston into a progressive leader of commerce in the world.
Boston is a city of education.
The students of Boston’s most prestigious colleges and universities make Boston one of the youngest metropolitan areas in the country. Working in Boston means your business is patronized by the students, faculty and administrators. As a resident or visitor to Boston you can enjoy sports, theatre, art, community education and much more as a result of the community outreach programs sponsored by the 53 colleges and universities in the Boston area. Nine out of 27 of Boston’s public schools were honored with the bronze, silver, or gold rankings by U.S. News & World Report thanks to their educators and school district administration. The first public school in the United States opened in 1635, Boston Latin, and is still open today.
Boston is a city of firsts.
- First College (Harvard, 1636)
- First Subway (1897)
- First Public Park (1639)
- First Organ Transplant (Kidney, 1954)
- First City Police Department (1837)
- First Dunkin Donut (1950)
- First Newspaper (Boston Globe, 1704)
- First Microwave Oven (1947)
- First Ball Park (Fenway, 1912)
- In light of the recent terrorist attacks in Boston, our first responders also receive our accolades.
All these, and many more firsts, reinforce why it is so good to work in Boston. For more firsts in Boston click here.
Sports in Boston are a source of employment and after work recreation.
The Celtics, Red Sox, Bruins, and Patriots mean sports lovers have the ability to cheer for their favorite team during every season. Dating as far back as opening day at Fenway, attending Opening Days and special games have even been the reason many employees have called in “sick”. There is nothing better than relaxing and supporting your favorite team! The staff who support the stadiums, teams, and concessions give our athletes and the fans a unique and unprecedented experience. (As do our renowned craft beer breweries.)
Boston Employment An All-Time High
There are over 3.4 million people working in Boston. Those who are currently working or look to work in Boston, are encouraged by this summary on the City of Boston’s website. “With a strong economy, safe streets and a diverse workforce, Boston is poised for continued success in fostering new enterprise throughout the city. Increasingly, companies are discovering new market opportunities in urban neighborhoods where density of purchasing power, investment in new infrastructure and access to employees form a framework for growth.”
We love working in Boston, the people, the resources, the transportation, the culture, the geography and so much more gives those who work in Boston a huge advantage and quality of life over America’s other big cities!
by Billy Sweet | Jan 6, 2015 | Winter Chimney
Around this time of year, the chimney often goes unnoticed. With everyone headed inside the escape the chilly winter weather, the chimney is left in the cold to fend for itself. While the robust brick structure may seem able to withstand any weather, masonry chimneys can actually suffer irreparable damage during the winter months. Fortunately, there are some measures that can be taken now to prevent more damage in the future.
Masonry chimneys are chimneys constructed using masonry materials, which include brick, mortar, concrete and stone. All of these materials, aside from stone, have a very porous nature, which means they easily absorb any water that touches them. Similar in function to a sponge, the bricks and other materials can soak up moisture until they reach complete saturations. While the absorption of water does little damage by itself, the trouble begins when the temperature drops below freezing. In sub-freezing temperatures, water begins a freeze and thaw cycle in which it continuously expands and contracts as it freezes and melts, respectively. When the water inside the masonry materials starts this cycle, the materials also experience that same shrinking and swelling movement. Over time, this motion degrades the strength of the materials. The first signs of a weakened chimney include cracked mortar or missing bricks, but eventually the entire structure could fall. To prevent this, a chimney specialist can patch the mortar by tuckpointing and apply a certain permeable sealant to the outside of the chimney to prevent water from entering the structure.
The other winter problem that occurs with the chimney also revolves around water damage. The warmth of the chimney can melt snow and ice at the top of the chimney, permitting water to leak inside. If the flue lining is made of metal, the water can rust out the lining, leading to cracks and holes. This break in the lining exposes the combustibles in the house to the heat of the fire, and it allows the toxic fumes to leak back into the home. Potential hazards of this include house fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. In addition, the water can rust out the damper, which may prevent proper ventilation of the fumes. Water damage may encroach further, as well, which would be evident by the presence of water stains on the walls and ceiling surrounding the fireplace. A chimney specialist can stop this damage from happening by repairing or replacing the chimney crown, if one is present, and installing a proper chimney cap to stop water from entering the chimney.
Prevention is key to avoiding these costly damages, so take the extra time to ask your chimney sweep or inspector about protecting your masonry chimney. For a professional consultation in the Boston or Portland areas, contact Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep.
