Without a doubt, chimneys and fireplaces add a lot to your comfort and lifestyle. During the winter days, nothing beats spending a good productive time in front of the fireplace. While taking care of your fireplace is not complex, it is important to remember some good practices. Among these is getting help from high-end chimney cleaning services.
Similarly, you might also require chimney repair from time to time. Most people who have not taken care of chimneys before will find it difficult to keep a track of all the best practices. If you can relate to this, you are at the right place.
In this article, we put together several best chimney practices that you should consider.
Chimney Safety Precautions
First, you should check whether you have all the tools available. If you want to clean your chimneys yourself, it is important to have specialized tools. Otherwise, you will be much better by getting help from a professional contractor. The most used tools include:
Fireplace holders: Some fireplace tool sets come with basic tools using which you can move around ash and wood without making a mess.
Mesh screens: Embers pose various risks. That is why experts suggest you contain them. Sometimes, embers can enter your house due to a backdraft through the chimney. This could happen due to weather conditions such as thunderstorms. Having a mesh screen prevents embers from making their way inside your house.
Fire gloves: Fire gloves are also extremely important, as they allow you to work with high heat. This way, you will not have to worry about your hands getting scalded with embers.
Now that you know the important equipment that you must have, let us look at some good chimney care tips.
Using the right wood
If you want your fire to be pleasant and safe, consider using dry hardwood. These burn longer as compared with softwood, produce a greater amount of heat, and are also environmentally friendly. Oak, Wood bricks, and Birch are the most common types of fire materials used in the United States and many other countries.
Experts usually suggest you stay away from softwood. These produce a higher amount of soot, which then attaches to the walls of your chimney. With that, these woods are quite smoky and end up getting consumed in less time. So, you will run out of your stock quickly.
You should also avoid using any endangered species of wood for the fire. Make sure that you know about any local restrictions in your area before cutting trees for wood.
Clean regularly
To avoid a chimney fire, it is crucial to regularly clean the chimneys. This way, you will not have to worry about soot getting built up in the chimney. If left untreated, all the soot that clings to the chimney wall can result in a fire.
Get chimney repairs right away
If it looks like your chimney might need repair, then contact a professional immediately instead of delaying it. By keeping your chimney in top shape, you can extend its life and increase its safety. Otherwise, you will be at the risk of dealing with chimney fires, which can be lethal and costly.
Conclusion
It is recommended to get a chimney inspection at the start and end of every winter season. This way, you will reduce the chances of soot and creosote building up in your chimney. Always get help from certified chimney sweep services Ellicott City only. Make sure that the company that you are choosing is fully insured and has experience in chimney repair and cleaning. This way, you will get the best value.