You may not even think about your chimney at all. You may just start fires in the fireplace and enjoy watching the flames dance and getting that chill out of the room. However, you should check your chimney at least once a year and give it a thorough cleaning to ensure that it will work properly and safely. Chimney’s that are not kept up can become dangerous and may be the result of a fire.
If you do not want to take on the task, you can hire a professional chimney sweep to ensure your chimney is not in need of repair and is thoroughly clean for the best performance.
The flue should be cleaned regularly as when you have a fire going, dangerous gases are created that can erode the lining of your fireplace. A professional will ensure that there is no damage done to the lining when cleaning. These gases if they do erode the lining can and will find their way into your home instead of going up the chimney as well as fire. Other deposits may also be attaching to the flue which can be the beginning of a fire as well. So the flue is a very important part of thechimney that needs regularly checkups and cleaning.
The chimney crown and cap is there to protect your chimney in between the exterior of the chimney and the flue. Weather and age can cause damage to these parts which should be checked yearly to ensure that they do not need repairs or replacing.
Some animals and birds may find your flues the best place to build a nest as the area is protected and keeps their nests warm and cozy. Other damage can be done from rain, falling leaves, or even deposits that can build up which can erode the ability of the flue to properly vent out through the chimney cap. Any type of blockage can allow the gases and heat to build which can result in a fire.
In order to ensure that your chimney and all the parts associated with your chimney are in proper working order it is best to hire a professional to clean and repair damages. So many things come into play when it comes to your chimney from the chimney itself to the brickwork and roofing tiles that can cause issues with the chimney if there is damage nearby the chimney. In order to know if you have possible problems, having your chimney checked at least once per year is the best way to ensure that your chimney is not an accident waiting to happen. You should learn more about the proper care of your chimney and how to determine if you need Toronto chimney repairs by talking with a professional.