Schedule Chimney Cleaning in Spring

Schedule Chimney Cleaning in Spring

When spring weather hits, thoughts of a crackling fire are replaced with thoughts of picnics and beach parties. But it is important to remember that those cold winter nights will return. Prepare for those winter evenings by having your chimney cleaned after snowstorm season has passed. There’s no better time to think ahead to the next fireplace season than right after the winter has passed.

Why Springtime Cleaning is Important

Winter usage can wreak havoc on the condition of your chimney. According to the GuideOne Insurance website, “(T)he chimney is the main escape for fire extracts, such as water vapor, unburned wood particles, tar fog and various minerals. These extracts create what is called creosote, a build-up of residue in the chimney.” A creosote build-up is especially evident after a long winter of using your fireplace. It’s tempting to put off cleaning your chimney until the fall; however, it’s a better idea to schedule a cleaning early in spring, so that you can have time to schedule any repairs that may be needed before the winter months arrive.

Things to Think About Before Cleaning Your Chimney

Before scheduling your annual spring chimney cleaning, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The Department of Consumer Protection recommends that you make sure that your chimney sweep checks out your chimney for crumbling mortar or damaged bricks. It’s very important that your chimney service personnel looks for debris that may block air flow, which could cause a back-up of toxic gasses to build up in your home. Make sure that your chimney sweep checks for any creosote build-up over 1/8” thick. Also, it’s important that you hire a chimney sweep that is CSIA (Chimney Safety Institute of America) certified.

After getting your chimney cleaned and checked for any necessary repairs, it is important to take precautions that will prevent blockages from occurring. Dried leaves and debris can fall into your chimney, causing a dangerous build-up that could prevent adequate airflow once you start using your fireplace again in the autumn and winter months. Also, birds, squirrels, and other wildlife can look to chimneys as a place to build their homes. Once you’ve gotten your chimney cleaned, be sure that your chimney damper is closed and that a cap is placed on your chimney to prevent these blockages from occurring.

Clean Your Chimney in the Spring for a Carefree Summer

For a worry free summer, be sure to schedule your springtime chimney cleaning with a company that is qualified and professional. Michael’s Chimney Service and Restoration offers complete chimney cleaning services, as well as chimney repairs and rebuilds. Michael’s offers quality services performed by CSIA certified team members. They also are members of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) and the Northeast Hearth, Patio, & Barbecue Association (NEHPBA). Michael’s Chimney Service and Restoration has been providing skilled care for over ten years, and has earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.

So spend your summer relaxing, knowing that, with Michael’s in charge of your chimney care this summer, you will be ready to for the warmth of a comforting fire on those crisp fall days.