Why a Chimney Sweep is Crucial

Few images are more appealing than curling up in front of the fireplace on a chilly, Seattle winter night. The comforting warmth, the sound of crackling wood, and the light the flames give off as they dance in front of you make it one of the most comforting experiences you can have. However, there may be potential dangers lurking in your Seattle fireplace, or more accurately, your chimney. It cities such as Seattle, where a fireplace is a great help in getting through cold winters, residents should be aware of the risks.

 

In addition to heat, fires also put out smoke and debris. This can then line and clog the inner walls of your Seattle chimney and poses a fire hazard. As the temperature in the chimney rises, these pieces may catch fire or crack the inner chimney linings. Seattle residents who use their chimneys often should have them inspected for this reason. Even if you don’t use your chimney that often, Seattle birds or other animals can make their nests inside the chimney, causing blockages. Also, Seattle chimneys can quickly fall into disrepair, especially if they are not routinely inspected. It is recommended that chimneys should be inspected at least once a year. While it is possible to do this yourself, without the proper equipment and training you run a good risk of hurting yourself, or at least not getting the job done properly. Your best bet is to hire a Seattle chimney sweep. They know what they are doing, and can better manage tall ladders, steep roofs, wet and icy weather, and specialized equipment.

In order to understand the Seattle chimney sweeping process, it is best to understand the inner workings of a chimney. The most important part is the flue: the vertical part that allows smoke and debris to escape. Chimney caps are outfitted to the outside of the chimney, at the top. This prevents you from simply having a large hole at the top of a chimney. The chimney crown sits outside the opening of the chimney, and prevents water from entering. This is especially important in Seattle, with such high levels of precipitation. The flashing sits at the point where the chimney rises above the roof. It protects the flue and the roof, and helps prevent Seattle water from entering the chimney. The damper is used to shut off the flue when the fireplace is not in use.

 

An essential part of the chimney is the chimney liner. Many older Seattle homes do not have chimney liners, but they can be installed. They provide a barrier between the brick and smoke, and protect mortar joints. Seattle chimney sweeping jobs are much easier with chimney liners. There are several different types of liners. Stainless steel is often used for chimney liners. Seattle residents may benefit from this type of liner because it provides additional insulation. Cast-in place is similar to cement and is applied to directly to the walls, adding extra insulation. Terra cotta, or tile liners, come in tubes that are lined along the Seattle flue.

 

Usually some plastic or a drop cloth is put down in front of the fireplace to prevent any soot from entering your Seattle home. The chimney is inspected from the top first, and then strong brushes are used to remove any hardened buildup on the chimney liner. The Seattle chimney sweep will typically wear a special mask in order to prevent from inhaling potentially dangerous chemicals. Next, the chimney will be cleaned from inside the house, and inspected for any problems at that end. When the process is finished, any remaining soot is vacuumed up.

 

This is the standard process for most chimney sweeping jobs. However, if your chimney has been neglected, you may have larger issues to deal with. Aging Seattle homes have several issues with the mortar joints, and can have high levels of creosote buildup on the chimney liners. Seattle chimney sweeps are capable of taking care of these larger issues. Creosote is highly combustible, and a cause of many fireplace related fires. Proper chemical treatment is necessary to remove creosote. Seattle homes without chimney liners can be outfitted with new ones, which can help to protect mortar joints. As a Seattle chimney company, we also do brickwork, so we have a good knowledge of how to best repair any damage to your chimney.

 

Check to make sure that your Seattle chimney sweep is licensed and bonded. Check with the Seattle Better Business Bureau for any complaints. Make sure that your money will guarantee your safety. If your Seattle home has larger problems, the initial inspection will give the chimney sweep a good idea of what needs to be done, and may be able to give you an initial estimate. Having a major problem with a chimney is rare, but it is more likely if your Seattle home is older, or if your chimney has been neglected for some time. In any case, if it has been more than a year since your chimney was inspected, have it done. The small cost of employing a Seattle chimney sweep is nothing when compared with the damage a chimney fire could cause.