The Trusted Local Chimney Service Provider for Northwest Arkansas: You’re in Good Hands With SureGlow

If I Don’t Use My Stove or Fireplace, Does My Chimney Still Need to be Cleaned & Inspected?

Yes. It’s a common misconception that if you have a fireplace or stove that never sees flames, then maintenance is not necessary. While an unused chimney might not be as dirty or as creosote-coated as one that sees regular use, it’s still susceptible to damage and buildup.

Consider the following:

• The materials that make up the outside of your chimney are still susceptible to harsh winds, excessive snow, rain and water damage, and more.
• An unused chimney makes a particularly perfect place for animals to crawl inside and set up shop.
• Regardless of whether it is in use or not, various debris can find its way into your chimney and create a blockage that, should you ever decide you’d like to light a fire, could cause problems.
• Upon the sale or transfer of a property, an inspection will be required, and if things don’t look great, the value of your home will suffer.

Remember that an inspection is also required after any upgrades or major renovation work, after changing fuel types, and when you move into a new home. To the last point, it is important to note that a chimney-specific inspection is different from the blanket real estate inspection required in the homebuying process. While the latter will evaluate the basic functioning points of your chimney, the inspection will not be as comprehensive with regard to the precise details.

Whether your fireplace is a functional staple of your home’s heating routine or simply a nice location to display your family photos, you should still get the chimney for any home heating appliance swept and inspected annually. It’s always better to be proactive than reactive.

Time to get scheduled? Reach out today.

How Often Should Homeowners Check Their Chimney?

When it comes to general maintenance and good fireplace practices, it doesn’t hurt to give your firebox (and the other surrounding parts of your chimney system) a once-over before you light a fire each time. This encourages you to be diligent and aware of any small changes that might occur.

That said, a homeowner’s overview of their fireplace does not replace one completed by a certified technician. So, stay aware and be vigilant, but never neglect to book this maintenance before your annual burn season. In addition, if you do spot some damages or notice your system working less efficiently than normal, don’t hesitate to call us in.

What Are The Signs of a Leaking Chimney?

When it comes to keeping an eye on your fireplace, one thing to be watchful for is leaks and water-related damages. You likely have a leak somewhere in your chimney system if you notice:

• Water leaking from (or pooling at the bottom of) your firebox
• Water stains on the ceiling/wall near your chimney and fireplace system
• Mildew, mold, or other abnormal growth
• Damp, musty odors in or around your fireplace
• Rusting or corrosion of any metal parts
• Spalling, cracking, or flaking bricks
• Various discoloration, such as efflorescence
• Gaps in the mortar between bricks
• Soggy, rotten wooden parts
• Any sort of damage to or deterioration of the flue liner
• Buildup or clogs in the flue

If you spot any of the above issues, don’t wait to call us in. The sooner we can find and resolve an issue, the better.

How can you stop a chimney from leaking?

The only way you can get a leaky chimney to stop for good is to have a professional come out and find the source – after which they can make repairs or install replacement parts, as needed. When it comes to chimney and fireplace damage, any quick fixes or DIY solutions will likely leave the issue unresolved – and could end up costing you more money in the long run.

If you notice any of the above signs – or any others that could point to a leak – be sure to reach out to someone from our team right away.