No Vacancy: Three Strategies to Keep Critters from Nesting in your Chimney

Small animals scurrying around your yard is a welcome sign of spring – until those critters make their way into your chimney.mneys provide a warm place that’s protected from rain and predators, making it an ideal space for nesting. But nests can cause costly damage to the inside of your chimney and lead to chimney fires or carbon monoxide poisoning. Admiralty Chimney’s CCP-certified chimney specialists recommend three ways to keep your chimney free of animals.

1. Install a chimney cap.

This is the most effective tool to keep birds and small animals out of your flue. A chimney cap, installed by a professional chimney company, should include mesh screening with holes that are small enough to keep out animals. Chimney caps also keep leaves and other outside debris from filtering into your chimney. Additionally, caps protect your chimney from rain water, melted ice and snow, and help keep hot sparks and embers from escaping and starting a fire.

2. Consider using a top-sealing damper.

Most dampers today are known as “throat” dampers, located just above the fireplace. Top-sealing dampers are installed closer to the top of the flue, allowing it to seal the chimney at the top. This leaves no space for animals to build nests if the damper remains closed. Top-sealing dampers also add an extra layer of protection against moisture, help prevent downdrafts, and reduce the risk of fires.

3. Trim the trees close to your roof and chimney.

Trees that hang near or over your chimney can give animals direct access into your flue. Cutting back branches from the chimney and the rest of the roof can make it more difficult for animals to gain access. This, combined with additional deterrents like chimney caps, can help keep animals from blocking your chimney system.

Now that you know your options, contact us to schedule an inspection. We will check the structural integrity of your chimney, look for signs of existing animal activity, and set a time to install a cap or damper.

Chimney Cap Installation, Chimney Inspection, Service, and Repair in NH and MA

Unwelcome critters can compromise the safety and efficiency of your chimney. Contact Admiralty Chimney’s CCP-certified chimney technicians to discuss the best methods to keep your chimney critter-free.

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Prepare your Fireplace for the Next Burning Season: 4 Steps

Spring is just around the corner. While you’re still savoring those cozy fires, there are steps you can take now to get your fireplace and chimney ready for the next burning season. Beginning maintenance early will ensure your system is safe and ready to use when summer ends and the chilly air returns. Here are four ways you can prepare for next fall.

1. Schedule a chimney check-up.

After a winter’s worth of fires and harsh weather conditions, your chimney needs a thorough check to be sure it can safely operate next season. It’s a little known secret that spring is the best time to schedule a chimney cleaning and inspection. As an early bird, you can beat the fall and winter rush and allow ample time for any repairs to be completed.

A cleaning with a CCP-certified chimney sweep will remove harmful byproducts that coat the liner. If left uncleaned, debris build-up can cause an unsafe obstruction and produce an ugly smell when mixed with summer humidity. A professional chimney inspection will identify problems that you may have been unaware of, such as cracks, debris or blockage.

Pro Tip: During your appointment, tell your technician about any changes you have observed with your fireplace or chimney, such as an odd smell or a new draft. They will take a closer look and suggest the right service or repair, if needed.

2. Check your chimney’s exterior surface.

Early spring is an excellent time to inspect the outside of your chimney structure for cracks and crumbling masonry or brick. Cracks can allow water to seep in and cause damage. If you spot a problem, contact your CCP-certified chimney specialist for a consultation and if needed, schedule repairs in the summer - the perfect time of year for masonry work.

3. Examine your chimney’s interior components.

Make sure your damper opens and closes completely. Over time, these units begin to wear and need replacing. If it doesn’t work properly, contact a chimney specialist for a replacement. Also, be sure your firebox is free of cracks and rust. These signs can lead to a serious problem and require a consultation with a chimney professional.

4. Remember to secure your firewood.

Finally, line up your wood supply. The best time to collect and season your firewood is early spring so it’s ready for winter use. Other benefits include:

1. Lower prices and increased availability: Buying now instead of waiting for cold weather to buy your firewood will save you money.

2. Ample time for seasoning: If you want your firewood ready for the cool days of fall, now is the time to collect and store it on firewood racks so it can properly season.

3. Elimination of insects: Insects living under the bark are dormant in early spring. When you store firewood in the spring for use next fall or winter, any insects will likely die before you bring the wood into your home.
   

Chimney Cleaning, Maintenance, Repair, and Inspection in NH and MA

The safety of your home and family can depend upon the condition of your fireplace and chimney. With proper service and maintenance, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re ready for a fire when the cold weather returns. Contact our CCP-certified chimney specialists today to schedule your springtime appointment.

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4 Ways Winter Weather can Compromise your Chimney

Your chimney endures the elements year-round, but winter weather is the most notorious for causing damage to your system. Heavy amounts of snow and ice can lead to significant structural and operational problems with your chimney. If left unrepaired, these problems can put your home and family’s safety in jeopardy. The pros at Admiralty Chimney have seen firsthand the impact winter conditions can have on chimneys, and share their know-how in this month’s blog. Here are four ways winter can compromise your chimney:

1. Chimney Flashing Damage

Flashing consists of fitted metal sheets installed to create a watertight connection between your chimney and roof. Heavy snow can cause it to bend under the weight of the snow, allowing water from melted snow to easily flow into your chimney. Failed flashing can cause water leaks that damage the wooden structure around your chimney as well as your ceiling and walls.

2. Masonry Damage

It’s not just snow or ice that wreaks havoc on your chimney. Temperature fluctuations also cause damage to your masonry over time. When snow melts in the afternoon sun, porous brick masonry will absorb the moisture. As the temperature dips below freezing, that moisture turns to ice, expanding and causing cracks in the bricks. As this freeze/thaw process continues, the spalling bricks can damage your chimney crown, bricks, and mortar. This type of problem can lead to serious structural and safety issues if left unrepaired.

3. Cracked Chimney

Moisture that seeps through the porous bricks slowly erodes them over time. During the winter, frigid temperatures can cause the trapped water to freeze inside the bricks, causing cracks. Depending on the state of your flue liner, brick cracks can interrupt the proper airflow of your chimney. In some cases, this may not be noticeable, but in severe cases, it can be a precursor to a chimney fire.

4. Blocked Chimney

When snow builds up on your roof, it can eventually block your chimney. Using your fireplace when your chimney is blocked puts your home at risk of a carbon monoxide buildup or fire. Don’t assume the hot air from a fire will cause sufficient melting. If your chimney is blocked, air isn’t going to come in, nor is it going to come out, jeopardizing the safety of your home and family.

Inspection is your best detection.

No matter the season, your chimney will show signs of wear and tear over time. It’s an important preventative maintenance task to periodically check your chimney for any damage or disruption in operation. Equally important is maintaining regular chimney inspections with an experienced technician. They have the skilled perspective and equipment to assess your chimney system from the inside out. And they offer techniques to help prevent future damage.

Chimney Inspection, Cleaning and Repair in NH and MA

If you suspect a problem with your fireplace and chimney, contact the trusted CCP-certified chimney professionals at Admiralty Chimney. We can inspect your chimney, identify any potential risks, and schedule needed repairs so you can have peace of mind.

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