Many people tend to overlook the fact that their chimney is opened to the outdoors. Even with a properly installed throat damper, your chimney is still exposed to the elements. At Hale’s Chimney & Fireplace Solutions, our experienced team of certified chimney experts can inspect your chimney and figure out a way to prevent the outdoors from entering your home.
What risks does nature pose to my chimney?
Nature pose numerous threats to your chimney system. However, the biggest threat is water. Water is very tough on your chimney masonry. When water, comes in the form of rain, sleet, or snow, enters your masonry, it can pool and be absorbed by the tiny pores within your bricks. When water enters your bricks, it can slowly start to dissolve and weaken your bricks from the inside out. This problem is worsened in the winter when the water freezes and quickly expands, causing bricks to become loose and masonry to crumble. Wind can also be an issue as it can blow loose material such as leaves, paper, sticks, and anything else into your chimney, creating a fire hazard.
Animal invasions can also be a threat to your chimney
In nature, many animals make nests in hollowed out trees and logs. In suburban areas, your chimney is the perfect substitute. This is especially true for animals such as raccoons, squirrels, and birds. When one of these animals builds a nest in your chimney, they can clog your chimney and cause airflow issues, which may not allow your chimney to vent properly.
Nest debris can also heat up inside your chimney to cause a chimney fire. If you suspect a nest in your chimney, do not remove it on your own. Encountering a wild animal on top of your roof is a dangerous situation. Furthermore, some species of animals, such as the chimney swift, are federally protected and are illegal to remove at certain times of the year.
How do I protect my chimney?
The best way to protect your chimney is to have it inspected by our Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified chimney technicians. Only a CSIA certified chimney technician has the knowledge and training to inspect and maintain your chimney to ensure it’s safe and efficient. Our technician will likely suggest installing a chimney cap. A chimney cap is a preventative mechanism to cover the top of your chimney, protecting it from moisture, debris, and animals, while also letting your chimney vent properly.
At Hales Chimney & Fireplace Solutions, we care about you and your home. Let us help you keep water and critters out of your home this summer. If your chimney needs protection, call us at 972-562-6851 or schedule an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you!