The wind and rain storm was a short burst, but it left quite a mess in its path. At first glance, tree branches were everywhere. The entire front and back yards, including the sidewalk and driveway were littered with tree branches and leaves of all sizes. The next day, I decided to go for a […]
Use It or Not… Gas Log Burning Fireplaces Still Need Swept and Inspected Annually – Same as Wood
It’s no doubt that gas log burning fireplaces have increased in popularity as there is less mess, no firewood storing and chopping, it’s just seems easier. Most homeowners think the fireplace and chimney doesn’t need maintenance or cleaning just because it is gas burning. Per the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), gas fireplaces require […]
4 Point Check on an Exterior Chimney for Leaks
“Rain, rain, go away…” Remember we sang that as kids and thought it was fun? I’ve found myself singing this song way too often with an ‘oh by the way…take the humidity and bugs along with you.’ Clean-up has become your everyday task…from outside debris to water in the basement. It’s been an agitating time […]
Crates as a Chimney Cap? Doesn’t really help.
Got your attention? Thought so. It’s not fake, it’s not stock photography. There are homes in Chicago and the surrounding areas with crates, and even shopping carts placed over the top of the chimney. The main reason for the extreme creativity is to keep the animals out especially with the unseasonably warm weather. Do you […]
Put a Damper On It!
A little chimney humor. Many of you probably figured it out. I’m talking about chimney dampers. If you’re like me, I love the fireplace, but not the cold breeze. Sitting in the family room watching TV with the family, as I’m sure most are, the last thing you want to feel is a chill in the […]
Pre-Season for Fireplaces & Chimneys
It’s that time of year where pre-season fireplaces & chimneys is all the rage! Never heard of pre-season fireplaces & chimneys? It’s similar to pre-season football. It’s the 4 weeks prior to the start of the regular season where the coaches make their decisions about fine tuning the team…who to keep and who to cut. […]
Dripping Water In or Around the Fireplace
Last night’s rain storm brought a new sound into the home…dripping. I had to determine the source of the dripping water. As I ventured into the bedrooms searching the corners and light fixtures, all was clear. Now for the downstairs. I made my way in the dark down the stairs listening…waiting for the next drip […]
