What could be more comforting than sitting in front of the fireplace drinking hot chocolate on a cold winter night? A fireplace does more than provide heat; it offers warmth and comfort in a way that sitting around a radiator just never could. Without a properly functioning chimney, however, starting a fire in the fireplace will only lead to a smoky disaster. Before winter hits, check for these common problems that require Chimney Repair in Carroll County MD to help ensure that no one in the household feels left out in the cold.
First off, pay attention to any odd odors emanating from the fireplace when it is not in use. A smoky odor indicates that it is overdue for a cleaning. However if the smell is musty and dank it’s more likely that moisture has built up in the chimney and led to the formation of mold. This is most often caused by small leaks, which can usually be repaired. However, mold remediation will be necessary prior to using the chimney even if it has been successfully patched.
Take a look at the chimney from the outside of the home. If bricks are falling off or seem to be crumbling, or the mortar between them is cracking, it’s time to call in a professional. Treating these symptoms early can prevent water from leaking in and doing further damage, so it’s best not to put it off even if no one has any intention of starting a fire immediately.
If smoke is infiltrating the living area through either a fireplace or a stove, that’s an obvious indication that something is amiss with the home’s chimney. The flue may be blocked by either debris or excessive creosote, or the damper may be stuck in a closed position. The trained professionals Masonry Chimney Repair Fairfield County CT can diagnose the exact cause of smoke infiltration and work to remedy it.
What’s the best way to prevent the need for expensive Chimney Repair in Carroll County MD? As in most things in life, the best treatment is preventative. Be sure to have a regular maintenance check performed each year prior to using fireplaces and wood stoves.
