The end of summer is getting closer and you might want to start thinking about what you need to do in order to get your house ready for winter. We know that it seems a little early and that you do not want to rush summer along, but there are certain things that it is best to complete before the cold weather sets in.

Here are a few tips for you to see if your chimney is ready for fall:

  • If you happen to see any loose bricks, crumbling bricks, cracks anywhere on the chimney or growing moss then you will want to have your chimney inspected for damage. It is quite possible that there is water seeping into the chimney and if it is not repaired quickly, the entire chimney can collapse.
  • When was the last time you had the chimney sealed and weatherproofed? If it has been a while, then you need to have that done so that water does not damage the chimney.
  • If you use the fireplace quite often or the inside of the chimney is full of soot, then it is time to have it cleaned. We actually recommend that you clean your chimney every year, especially if you use it a lot.
  • If you have a wood stove or pellet stove, then it is important to look at the stove pipe. If there is any rust, soot buildup or loose pipes, then the problem will need to be resolved before you can use the stove.
  • You should always check to make sure that your chimney cap is not loose or cracked in any way. Even a small crack can lead to major problems in a short amount of time.

While it is possible for you to do some of these things by yourself, we usually recommend that you contact a professional. Many times there is a problem that is not very noticeable to the untrained eye and you don’t want to miss anything that could cause major problems in the near future.

We perform all types of chimney inspections, cleanings, and minor repairs here at Lou Curley’s Chimney Service. Our Chimney Sweeps are CSIA Certified and participate in continued education programs throughout the year. Give us a call at 610-626-2439 to discuss any chimney problems you may be experiencing or to schedule an appointment for a consultation, inspection, or cleaning.