The post Chimney Flashing: When to Repair and Why It Matters appeared first on ARD Chimney Service Lakewood - Sweep and Repair.
]]>Chimney flashing is very important in ensuring that your roofing system at the chimneys is strong and well-protected. It is a veil that shields your walls from water penetration through the joint between the roof and the chimney.
However, due to the technicality of chimney flashing, most homeowners only pay little attention to the importance of periodically fixing this part until they realize there is water damage.
This guideline will also explain why Chimney and Roof flashing repairs are crucial.
Chimney flashing is generally made of thin metal – aluminum or galvanized steel- fixed where the roof and chimney meet. This flashing is mainly useful in preventing water, which can cause structural damage, from penetrating this area, ensuring that no water leaks into the chimney or the roof.
It consists of two main components, step flashing and counter flashing. Step flashing is applied in structures with shingles. On the other hand, the counter flashing is applied with the chimney masonry to hood the step flashing.
Chimney repair and maintenance should be done on time to avoid exposing your house to water damage. Ignoring flashing issues can lead to several problems:
Chimney flashing repair is one of those areas that, while a DIY hero easily fixes minor problems, you may need a professional. Organizations should consider undertaking routine checks, particularly after harsh weather patterns. If you doubt the state of your flashing, you should contact a professional to inspect and fix it if required.
When selecting a professional for chimney repair or roof flashing repair, consider the following things:
It is recommended that the contractor chosen has adequate experience in chimney and roof repair. Check their qualification and previous projects done by them to ensure they possess the necessary skills.
Check that the professional is qualified to work on your project and that they are insured. This makes it possible in case of, and during the repair process, they must compensate for some incidents.
For peer recommendations, one needs to see website reviews and get contacts from other customers with whom the company has worked. Earlier clients can be consulted to learn more about the contractor’s efficiency and work standards.
Chimney flashing is also an important factor that protects your home against water. This is because, if not checked early enough, roof or chimney flashing repair can lead to costly losses in the future.
Regular checks and repairs ensure your home’s stability. Consult a professional structural engineer to guarantee a safe and secure foundation. Do not let a small problem develop into a big one; seal your home against leaks and moisture problems.
Remember, it’s always better to call a professional for expert advice and repairs to maintain the integrity of your home.
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]]>The post How to Clean Your Chimney? appeared first on ARD Chimney Service Lakewood - Sweep and Repair.
]]>A well-maintained chimney is essential for safe and efficient use of your fireplace. Over time, soot and creosote can accumulate inside the chimney, restricting airflow and increasing the risk of a chimney fire. Therefore, it is necessary to frequently clean them to keep such problems at bay and ensure that our fireplaces are performing at their best.
In case you want to take up this challenge here’s an easy guide on how one should go about cleaning their own chimney.
Before anything else gather all necessary items, which include:
To protect against the mess, cover everything surrounding it with drop cloths or old sheets. Make sure there’s no fire burning in the house then confirm that your shaft has cooled down completely before starting off any work. Remove any fireplace screens, grates, or glass doors that might be blocking access to the smoke chamber.
Using a flashlight, take a good look inside your flue liner but first make sure it is safe to do so. Keep an eye out for any cracks or other signs of damage such as loose bricks or excessive amounts of soot build-up. Also, check whether there are any blockages caused by bird nests or debris accumulation. If you happen across major problems, call a professional.
Secure your ladder onto your roof firmly, ensuring it doesn’t wobble before ascending. Attach a chimney brush to an extension rod and lower into the flue. Use vigorous scrubbing strokes to dislodge accumulated soot and creosote from the walls of the smoke duct while adding more rods as needed so that the whole length gets swept.
Once you have finished cleaning inside your vent, move on to the firebox where we normally have fires burning. Take out all ash and other debris using a fireplace shovel; afterward, give the entire area a good sweep with a broom making sure every corner is reached.
Once through with sweeping cautiously pick up dirt from drop cloths or sheets used for covering the floor. Make sure to put it in a metallic container since soot can ignite easily. Ensure that the soot has cooled down completely before throwing it away by not using plastic bags which might melt if still warm.
Finally, do a last check of the smoke shaft to ensure it’s clean and clear. Also, check the firebox to confirm there are no obstructions or debris present. Put back any screens, grates or glass doors removed earlier then you can start using your fireplace again.
Although cleaning your chimney on your own is achievable, it can be untidy and difficult, especially when you lack the necessary tools or experience. Professionals know how to clean your chimney well. They also inspect for potential hazards and ensure your fireplace works safely.
Therefore, to get the best outcome and rest easy, calling a professional chimney sweep is usually a good idea rather than doing it yourself.
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]]>The post Fireplace Inserts appeared first on ARD Chimney Service Lakewood - Sweep and Repair.
]]>Fireplace inserts are among the most powerful ways to elevate the warmth and mood of your house. They offer many benefits for customers, whether they desire to add a touch of sophistication to a new room or renovate an old unproductive fireplace.
Efficient, convenient, easy to use, time-saving, and luxurious looking are just a few reasons gas fireplace inserts are so popular among people who own houses.
This article will look at some of the pros of gas fireplaces and the top choices you can make for this particular issue.
Gas fireplace inserts are self-contained heating units designed to be inserted within an existing fireplace. These fireplaces are fueled by natural gasses or propane, providing a clean and efficient alternative to conventional wood-burning fireplaces.
Gas inserts are built with ceramic logs or glass beads that look like real fires but offer constant heat levels that can be easily regulated. These inclusions are famous for their ease of use, energy-saving capabilities, and low maintenance, thus making them attractive to homeowners who want a stress-free mode of cooling their homes.
The following are some of the best gas fireplace inserts you can find on the market currently:
Empire Comfort Systems Tahoe Deluxe Clean-Face Direct Vent Gas Fireplace Insert: This gadget has a smooth, glossy design and spacious viewing area; hence it is an elegant addition to any home. It has a powerful heat output of 25,000 BTU, guaranteeing efficient and consistent heating.
Napoleon Grandville VF Series 36-Inch Vent-Free Gas Fireplace: Its unmatched performance characterizes this gas fireplace, capable of releasing up to 30,000 BTUs. Its log set also looks real and offers customization possibilities with optional decorative fronts.
Majestic Ruby Series Direct Vent Gas Fireplace Insert: The series receives acclaim for its user-friendliness and energy efficiency; it is fitted with adjustable flame height and produces heat of up to 27,000 BTU. A convenient remote control is also included, and it can blend seamlessly into any décor.
There are several reasons why gas fireplace inserts have become more popular of late. One of them is the convenience they provide. There is no need to chop wood, pile it up, and store it next to the chimney like it is with traditional wood-burning fireplaces. This feature becomes even more valuable during winter when you want to increase the temperature in your living areas quickly.
Gas fireplace inserts also boast high-efficiency levels besides being convenient. A great proportion of heat from conventional fireplaces goes up in smoke through chimneys though gas inserts ensure maximum heat while minimizing energy loss. Therefore, one can enjoy a warm atmosphere indoors without worrying about monthly bills.
Maintenance gas fireplace inserts don’t require much work at all. You do not have to clean ash or deal with untidy situations associated with the wood ignition process. Just arrange an annual expert check-up, and your piece will work fine. These low maintenance requirements have made them favorite choices for busy homeowners, especially given the hustle of their lives.
There are several other options to consider besides gas fireplace inserts. Electric fireplace inserts are one of the most popular choices as well. These inserts do not require gas lines and can be used in various locations in a home; their installation is quick and convenient, which is another reason why they are so widely used today.
Electric fireplace inserts do not need any venting. Moreover, some have remote controls, allowing you to switch the heat off but keep the flames running.
On the other hand, traditional wood-burning fireplace inserts appeal to those who enjoy the crackling sound and aroma of a real wood fire. Wood-burning versions are merely inserted into existing masonry fireplaces, making them more efficient heaters.
To summarize, your house’s comfort and aesthetic appeal can be improved using fireplace inserts. A gas type could be chosen over any others due to its convenience. At the same time, an electrical variety could stand out from all other types of fireplaces because it is not limited – there are choices for every homeowner!
Which type of fireplace suits you best depends on your requirements and preferences, and with this article, you will have gotten a good idea of the benefits and the best types of fireplace inserts.
However, consider Chimney Sweep Littleton if you are looking for detailed guidelines or installation services. They will assist you in discovering the ideal solution for your home, ensuring a perfect fit that meets your unique needs and enhances your living space.
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]]>The post Chimney Liners appeared first on ARD Chimney Service Lakewood - Sweep and Repair.
]]>Your fireplace hosts the fire and the chimney above provides an exit for the smoke and gases produced by the fire. That exit is your chimney liner. It plays a vital role in keeping your home safe from the smoke and hazards at risk. The role of a chimney liner is simple, it is a tube that lines the chimney flue, like an inner shell improving efficiency, preventing the high heat from affecting the surrounding parts of the chimney’s brick, masonry and roof. The chimney liner provides your chimney with an additional layer of protection!
– If you begin to notice soot, flakes and creosote falling down from your chimney, this debris is a sign that your chimney liner is deteriorating and needs a sweep. The embers from the fire also creates a risk for a house fire.
– Smoke entering your home is a sign of a damaged chimney liner. The chimney liner isn’t functioning if smoke is not properly directed up and out of the flue. This problem increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, an invisible odorless gas.
– Extreme weather can also contribute to damaging your chimney liner. Whether it be water damage, lighting, fire, these can all negatively affect the condition of your liner.
– If you’ve decided to convert your fireplace to operate from a different fuel source, like gas to fire for example, you’ll need to replace your chimney liner to accommodate your new appliance.
Some homes were built without a liner, especially if your chimney is older and flue is made of clay. Clay lined chimneys unfortunately can deteriorate in as quickly as 5 years. However, you can meet with one of our professional chimney technicians to discuss getting a chimney liner installed to help protect and extend the life of your chimney.
Stainless steel liners. These are durable, long-lasting, and resistant to corrosion. This is a suitable option for all fuel types: gas, oil and wood appliances with a lifespan of 15-20 years.
Aluminum liners. This is a cost friendly option however, have medium efficiency and only an option for certain gas appliances.
HeatShield Flue Resurfacing. HeatShield is a great alternative to replacing your liner. Performed by a HeatShield trained professional, the technician will use Heatshield, a ceramic material, to coat over your existing liner to restore it for use. The material also applies over mortar joints and cracks all throughout the flue to protect and lengthen the life of your current liner. This option requires a proper inspection of your current liner to determine if the damage is minimal enough to be a good candidate for this treatment.
If you’ve recently moved into a new home, selling your home, notice signs mentioned above or due for your annual cleaning, let us help! Our trained chimney technicians will inspect all aspects of your chimney to ensure you and your family a safe, stress-free functioning chimney for the season!
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]]>The post Chimney Chase Cover appeared first on ARD Chimney Service Lakewood - Sweep and Repair.
]]>It’s whole purpose is to protect against water damage to the siding and structure as well as preventing animals from coming into the Chase (Chimney structure sidings)
The Chimney cap and Chimney Chase cover are two different things but they very often are getting mixed up by many people thinking one is the other, so allow me to shed some light on the subject
The chimney cap is the part that seals the liner and protects against rain, animals, etc…
The chimney cap sits on top of the liner that is being fed through the chimney chase cover.
the chimney cap is the highest part of your chimney and in most cases can be seen from the ground level.
Often time we are asked by customers what is the difference between the chimney crown to the Chimney chase cover and to be frank the main difference ls in the material,
Chimney crown is made out of concrete and Chimney Chase cover is made out of steel.
Sometimes, Professionals refer to the chimney chase cover as “the chase pan”
The chimney crown and chimney chase cover both are crucial for preventing house leaks and help leak-proof the structure.
Over time, just like anything in life, chase cover and chimney crowns can deteriorate.
Leaking and rusting chimney chase covers and chimney caps are very common unfortunately, since not everyone is using the right materials for proper installation, as well as cracks in the chimney crown, can cause a lot of leaking in the chimney structure and leaking to the house.
To prevent all types of chimney leaks our best advice to you is to call a professional chimney company to take a look at your chimney case cover or chimney crown and determine where the leak is coming from.
After determining where the leak is located, our pros can help you seal or repair any issue you may have with a leaking chimney.
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]]>The post Chimney Crown appeared first on ARD Chimney Service Lakewood - Sweep and Repair.
]]>Are you interested to know the importance of your chimney crown? Then, this is the right place to walk through every single detail about it.
Do you own a chimney, but you are unaware how important a chimney crown is? If so, then this article is a comprehensive guide for you to explore all the details. The primary role of the chimney crown is water protection and preventing water damage due to extreme weather fluctuations like pounding rains. The concrete body of the chimney crown stands as a first-line defensive force to combat water damage, which results in increased efficiency and maximized longevity of the chimney. However, the chimney crown needs to be repaired/rebuilt when it gets damaged over time due to direct exposure to harsh weather. This guide will help you to understand what a chimney crown is, why it is important, and when to repair it. Let’s jump in.
The chimney crown is the uppermost part of the chimney, contributing to the prevention of water entry and avoiding water damage. Commonly, it’s made of concrete because other building materials, like mortar, absorb water into its pores and lead to quick deterioration and crumbling. The chimney crown is exposed to extreme weather changes and other harsh elements, so its regular maintenance is necessary to prevent its earlier damage.
The chimney crown is extremely essential due to its ability to direct water out and away from the sides of a fireplace. Without a well-constructed and healthy chimney crown, the chimney deteriorates and breaks down due to masonry’s absorbent nature, as it allows water to soak in. As a result, brickwork and mortar decay significantly when exposed to direct moisture.
The main role of the chimney crown is to safeguard the chimney from climatic and weather fluctuations. Pounding rain or extreme weather conditions could cause damage to the fireplace, but having a chimney crown saves it from water damage. A chimney crown bestows maximum protection as a shield covering the top of the chimney’s opening from the corner.
It further helps you in diverting water and moisture away from your fireplace. It also saves your brick chimney from any type of weather or water damage. Having a chimney crown is always an optimal security against major harm. It also helps to minimize the risk of fire and bestows increased longevity to your fireplace.
Chimney crown repair is a good option when there are obvious hairline cracks appear on the crown’s surface. Consider hiring a skilled mason to repair the crown because he carefully fills the cracks or holes with a patch of cement material. After that, the whole chimney crown is sealed with a waterproof sealant to safeguard the crown’s surface. Some signs show when your chimney crown requires repair. These include:
⦁ Cracked or missing pieces of the chimney crown
⦁ Weekend or deteriorated mortar joint
⦁ Water spots throughout the base of your fireplace
⦁ Deposit of debris on top of the crown
⦁ The presence of these signs indicates that contacting a professional team to inspect the chimney crown is necessary.
A well-built chimney crown is constructed of durable materials and is equipped with defensive components to combat moisture like fumes/smoke and water. But sometimes, these materials fail to perform efficiently. In this scenario, chimney crown repair via a certified team of experts is required immediately. The chimney crown is the most vulnerable area that loses the battle against water over time. This concrete body rests at the top of the chimney stack and closes off the fireplace structure. During repair, if the chimney crown is designed properly, it works effectively for years and years to protect the entire chimney system from water damage.
When there is a worse crown condition, such as large chunks missing or if the walls between the chimney flue get exposed, then rebuilding the chimney crown is the safest and most reliable choice. Additionally, cracks can cause water to leak straight down to the foundation and cause water damage. In chimney crown rebuilding, several designs meet the criteria of a quality chimney crown, including:
⦁ Construct with Concrete: Rebuild with concrete; otherwise, mortar or other building materials deteriorate quickly when exposed to moisture.
⦁ Angled to support water runoff: If the chimney crown is made flat instead of angled, then it doesn’t work effectively, and water can pool and wear away at the crown.
⦁ Extension beyond the edge: A well-designed chimney crown should extend beyond the fireplace to restrict dumping water and flashing.
⦁ Thickness over 2 inches: The thin crown is unable to protect; water wears away at the crown and makes its way in rather quickly.
Rebuilding the crown doesn’t involve an entire tear-down of the previous chimney followed by its complete replacement like brick by brick, but it’s not always the case. Depending on the condition of the chimney crown, rebuilding is performed in different ways. Once you hire a certified service to rebuild the chimney crown, the team suggests the kind and design of the crown according to the condition. Avoid trying rebuilding by yourself; otherwise, severe damage may occur, and replacement will be the only option left that’s so expensive.
At last, the chimney crown is the basic component of a fireplace that’s built with the most durable material. This building material makes it a water-protective covering at the top of the chimney. In extreme weather conditions, the chimney crown is the only part in contact with harsh elements, and it is vulnerable to water damage. Over time, if the chimney crown deteriorates, the chimney becomes accessible to the water entrance, and its structural integrity is lost. To restore the chimney crown’s function as before, go for chimney crown repair or rebuilding. If left untreated, replacement is the only option left that costs much. To treat chimney crown damage, always prefer a qualified, experienced, and insured team to get professional services.
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]]>The post Pros and Cons of Chimney Sweeping Logs appeared first on ARD Chimney Service Lakewood - Sweep and Repair.
]]>Are you searching for an easy and simple way to clean your chimneys? Then, this is the right place for you to explore all the details about chimney cleaning logs.
Do you own your chimney but hate to take care of it professionally all the time? Then, what can be more convenient than creosote sweeping logs, presenting as a straightforward solution to clean chimneys? Using these logs, creosote buildup is removed easily at home, and you don’t need to rush to professionals for regular maintenance. However, these can’t be an alternative to the annual professional inspection. Let’s traverse through all the details of logs, how they work, and their benefits and drawbacks.
Chimney clean logs function via a combination of heat-stimulated chemicals (additives) and corporeal stirring. Whenever you burn the log, the chemicals from logs are emitted into the chimney flue and execute loosening the creosote. As a result, hard and sticky creosote gets transformed into flaky substances that are much easier to remove.
The whole mechanism revolves around changing the composition of debris from hard to loose and brittle. In this way, it soothes your cleaning or brushing process. Secondly, burning the log and fire causes agitation and vibration, helping in eliminating the debris. Undoubtedly, chimney sweeping logs provide great assistance in the reduction of creosote buildup but they can’t compensate an annual professional sweeping of chimneys.
Yes, fireplace cleaning logs work in removing creosote (tar-like material) that gets stuck to the pipes of chimneys when you burn the fire. The flammable nature of creosote puts your place (home) in danger of explosion every time you enjoy a fire in your chimneys. When the log is burned, it loosens the soot to provide a deposit-free chimney. These logs also work to convert dirt and debris into ash that goes away easily or flies away. Every time you need to sweep your chimneys, creosote cleaning logs are the best solution to prevent severe hazards that can arise from the accumulation of deposits.
It is important to consider whether using chimney clean logs is safe or not. Taking into consideration all the perspectives of cleaning logs, these are safe but only if used under the proper conditions. Undoubtedly, creosote sweeping logs comprise a few toxic chemicals, so following the directions is necessary. All you need to consider when using logs includes:
⦁ You need to open your damper so that all the fumes (toxic) get expelled.
⦁ Avoid using these logs when there is a blockage in chimneys due to pests and nests.
⦁ Burning the logs demands the closing of all fireplace doors and screens.
⦁ It’s advised to avoid turning on fans and other heating electronics when using cleaning logs, as they may circulate fumes throughout your place.
In short, great caution is needed because of the explosive nature of chemicals in logs that may put your home on fire.
Creosote cleaning log comes up with a lot of benefits, that’s why it is recommended to clean your chimneys. Let’s take a glance at these advantages.
⦁ One of the main benefits of using logs is its convenience and easy-to-use attributes. There is no complicated procedure, even a layman can use it easily. You just have to toss the log into chimneys and it starts to work.
⦁ Logs execute cleaning via removal of creosote deposit in the flue.
⦁ By cleaning debris, it prevents the risk of a fireplace fire.
⦁ It’s a great solution to keep your chimneys cleaned and maintained between professional cleaning.
⦁ Chimney cleaning logs are applicable in wood-burning chimneys, inserts, and heating stoves.
Chimney cleaning logs are too much beneficial in many ways, but that does not mean they are free of any drawbacks. There are a few disadvantages to using these logs, and considering them is important to use them cautionarily. Let’s glide through them in detail.
⦁ Creosote sweeping logs can’t be a surrogate to a professional chimney sweeping.
⦁ The chemicals in cleaning logs are safe but may cause an unpleasant odour.
⦁ These logs are not compatible with gas-heating appliances like stoves and gas fireplaces.
⦁ Chimney sweep logs contribute to the reduction of creosote buildup in chimneys but can’t be removed completely.
⦁ If chimneys are not cleaned regularly, then loosened or flaky substances of creosote can still catch fire.
Here is an important question to address whenever you need to clean your chimneys. For this purpose, it’s best to inspect your chimneys by yourself. With the help of a flashlight, look inside the chimney flute and use a pencil or a plastic knife to scrape off the creosote layer deposited here. If the layer is 1/8-inch thick or more, it’s an accurate time to sweep your chimneys. Here is another important thing to check: Is there any animal housing your chimney? If animals are living there, pay attention to safely removing them from chimneys. Then, use chimney cleaning logs, but don’t forget to wear protective accessories like glasses and gloves to clean the chimney safely.
It’s a matter of fact that chimney cleaning logs reduce creosote buildup but are unable to remove it completely. Following “The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)” statement, it’s straightforward that creosote sweeping logs can’t replace professional chimney inspection and cleaning. So, it’s recommended to hire a qualified and certified chimney sweep once a year to remove the chemical residue of the cleaning logs, clean the ash, and eliminate the creosote buildup. An annual chimney inspection is also beneficial in assessing any blockage or damage to chimneys that need to be repaired. However, chimney cleaning logs contribute mainly to reducing creosote between cleanings.
In conclusion, this article has gone through all the details of chimney cleaning logs, from their working and pros and cons to their safety measures. Considering all the perspectives, cleaning logs are beneficial in loosening the hard and sticky creosote buildup, and they are easy to remove. However, there are some precautions to enjoy the safe use of creosote sweeping logs. In between annual professional sweeping, logs are best to use for regularly maintaining and cleaning chimneys. Using them protects from severe hazards like a fire explosion due to creosote blockage. But it’s better to hire qualified sweeping services once a year for a deep inspection and chimney cleaning.
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