Checking for Chimney Leaks
“Why are we talking about chimney leaks when it has been so dry?” “No need to worry about water leaks from the chimney, all looks good in the house so far.” These are two statements that have been going through everyone’s minds. No rain, no problems, so therefore there must be no issues! Is it […]
Beat The New Year’s Freeze
Now that the new year has begun, the freezing cold months loom ahead, and your chimney is in need of a fireplace sweep. Maybe Santa Claus made a mess of soot when he came down the chimney, or there’s a few unnoticed cookie crumbs in the hearth! Humor aside, the daunting days of below 0 […]
Do I Need to Clean a Gas Fireplace?
Is it necessary to clean gas fireplace in Illinois? It’s intuitive that the dark black buildup of combustion needs to be cleaned from a typical wood burning fireplace, but is it needed to clean a gas fireplace? It’s gas…right? Gas fireplaces do not have a visible buildup of combustion, but should be cleaned at least […]
Do I Really Need to Clean the Chimney…Again?
The air conditioner cover is on, the furnace filter has been changed…now what am I forgetting? Ah, that’s right. Get the chimney sweep done. Do I really need to sweep the chimney this year? I use a gas fireplace. I don’t need to get it swept…right? Gas fireplaces are a great convenience as they can […]
What Gas & Wood Burning Chimneys Have in Common
Fireplaces rank as one of the most popular features for homeowners. According to Angie’s List, they found that a fireplace was the #1 feature most often mentioned in home listings. The same study showed that 60% of homeowners having and using wood burning fireplaces while gas fireplaces made up about 22%. Whichever is your favorite, […]
A Special Q & A on Gas Fireplaces in Hot or Warm Weather
Gas fireplaces are many times found in homes, condos and townhomes. There’s a common misunderstanding with gas fireplaces…maintenance. All gas fireplaces need to be maintained, even if you don’t use your gas fireplace. Q: The gas fireplace has only been used a couple of times in the past few years. Can I just use it? A: […]
Summer Chaos in the Chimney
There are big disturbances going on in your chimney and it will certainly make its way into the fireplace and into your home. If you find yourself saying, “I can wait to get the chimney cleaned,” think again. Chaos #1: Summer heat and humidity, and we’ve already had a couple of 90 degree days, seeps […]
What’s the Difference Between a Chimney Cap and a Fireplace Damper?
Let’s add to that question…Is it necessary to have a chimney cap or a fireplace damper for a gas fireplace? Or is it just for wood burning fireplaces? A popular question worth investigating. Chimney Cap Chimney caps are mounted over the top of the flue. The purpose of a chimney cap is to keep rain, […]
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 […]
