A fireplace can be a great way to add value and charm to any home. If you’ve got a fireplace in your home that you use regularly, industry experts recommend an annual inspection and cleaning in addition to inspection upon purchase or move in.

Annual inspections are important for a variety of reasons. Especially for first-time homeowners, or those who have moved and never had a fireplace before, the annual inspection and cleaning may not be something they immediately think of in winterizing the home.

Ignoring your fireplace can lead to a chimney or house fire as a result of creosote buildup. Creosote is highly flammable, and left untouched in the chimney can pose a fire risk as well as blocking the path of smoke and carbon monoxide that should be exiting from your home.

Aside from materials and buildup in the chimney, a good cleaning will include an inspection of the structure, lining, and masonry of the chimney itself. Cracks and tears in the lining can let heat escape that should be contained, increasing the risk of a house fire. Both creosote buildup and excess moisture can cause damage to the chimney liner and masonry inside your home.

Functionality should also be examined during the maintenance. Making sure all of the elements of your fireplace and chimney are working properly and in good condition will help increase the life of your chimney and decrease the chances of something going wrong. Inspecting or placing a chimney cap can prevent debris and critters from entering your chimney and causing problems later.

When looking to hire a chimney cleaning and inspection company to service your home, check their references. Websites like Angie’s List, Yelp, and Next Door can be great resources for finding the best value and most quality company in your area. They should follow the guidelines set forth by the Chimney Safety Institute of America, and thorough jobs take about an hour on average.

The chimney sweeps here at Lou Curley’s Chimney Service are well-trained and highly certified. Call us at 610-626-2439 to schedule an appointment with a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep in Drexel Hill or the surrounding areas. We will help ensure that your chimney is ready to face the quickly-approaching winter season without issue.