If your home has a fireplace, you can’t ignore chimney maintenance. Your chimney endures a lot as it removes harmful carbon dioxide from your home's air, including animals, soot, and weather. Below, the professionals at The Chimney Sweep in Kernersville, NC, discuss the problems that can arise if you ignore chimney maintenance.

What Are Common Chimney Problems?

Creosote

Smoke isn’t the only thing that goes up a chimney. Creosote is a darkish tar that deposits inside the structure. There are several types of creosote, but they are all dangerous because of their high flammability. The deposits can prevent proper ventilation of the chimney system, which can produce toxic fumes inside the home and devastating fires. Since professionals have the right tools to remove creosote, it’s necessary to schedule regular chimney maintenance. 

Blockages

There are other factors besides creosote that can create obstructions. Birds in your chimney, leaves, and other debris can collect inside the system, especially if the fireplace hasn’t been used for some time. However, when a qualified technician inspects the chimney, they will identify any blockages and remove them so that you can begin using your fireplace safely.

Structure Deterioration

Cracks in mortar and rotting of the exterior chimney walls are serious issues. Deterioration of the structure can provide a channel for deadly carbon monoxide gas to escape into the home. It can also cause chimney fires to spread to other parts of the house faster. Aside from health and safety issues, it can also be expensive to fix chimney decay if it goes unnoticed for a long time. However, annual inspections will bring these issues to the homeowner’s attention so that appropriate repairs can be made in a timely fashion.

Keep your home safe and warm this winter season by contacting the friendly professionals at The Chimney Sweep. Founder Terry Osborne uses his extensive knowledge and experience as a firefighter to serve clients throughout Forsyth County by providing high-quality chimney maintenance, inspections, and repairs. Call (336) 993-8999 today to schedule an appointment. You can also visit them online to learn more about their available services.