Do you know the last time you had your chimney inspected and cleaned by a chimney sweep? Staying on top of your chimney is important, especially if you use your wood fireplace on a regular basis. Failing to sweep it every so often or leaving damage unaddressed can cause serious risks, including a house fire. Beyond just not having it swept in a long time, there are some are signs that would indicate that it’s time to contact your local Mercer County chimney sweep for chimney services. Below we will go over what to look for so you’ll know if you need to sweep or repair your chimney.
Signs that You Need Chimney Services in Mercer County
1. Creosote buildup:
The build-up of creosote in your chimney can be a major sign that it’s time for a chimney sweep. Creosote is an oily substance that forms when the gases from your fireplace or wood stove heat up and condense on the chimney walls. Over time, this residue will accumulate and may even start to create flammable deposits known as chimney tar. If this happens, your chimney needs to be swept right away before it has a chance to cause a fire.
2. Rust and corrosion:
2. Rust and corrosion:Another telltale sign of a dirty chimney is rust and corrosion on the metal parts of your chimney system, such as the damper and cap. If you notice these signs, it could mean that your chimney is blocked by soot and other debris, which can allow moisture to seep in. This can damage the metal components of your chimney over time, potentially causing leaks and further chimney issues down the line.
3. Smoke or odor:
If you’re noticing a lot of smoke billowing out from your chimney when you use it, this could be a sign that something is blocking the airflow at the base of your chimney. In addition to smoke, you may also notice an unpleasant odor coming from your chimney. If this happens, contact a chimney sweep immediately for a thorough inspection and cleaning to get rid of any blockages and prevent air flow issues in the future.
4. Cracks or gaps:
Another sign that your chimney is in need of a cleaning is if you notice any cracks or gaps in the chimney walls or components. These issues can allow water to seep into your chimney and damage it from the inside out, so it’s important to address them as quickly as possible by hiring a chimney sweep in Mercer County.
5. Chimney blockage:
If you’re noticing black, sooty buildup at the base of your chimney that seems resistant to removal with standard cleaning methods, it could be an indication that there’s something more serious going on. This could be an indication that you’ve got an obstruction blocking the flow of smoke and gases up and out of your chimney, and you should contact a chimney sweep as soon as possible to perform a thorough inspection and cleaning.
6. Loud creaking or cracking sounds:
Finally, if you hear any loud creaking or cracking sounds coming from your chimney, this could be a sign that there’s something wrong with the masonry of your chimney. This could indicate that there are cracks or gaps in the mortar joints, which can allow water to seep inside and damage the structure over time. Contacting a chimney sweep right away is the best way to prevent these kinds of issues from getting worse. With regular chimney inspections and cleanings by a professional chimney sweep in Mercer County, you can help keep your chimney in good shape and prevent chimney-related problems from occurring down the road.
Looking for an Experienced Chimney Sweep in the Mercer County, New Jersey Area?
Looking for the best Mercer County chimney cleaning services? Contact St. John Chimney Sweeps to inspect your fireplace and have it cleaned. St. John Chimney Sweeps has been in business for over 15 years. We are a full service chimney and fireplace sweeping and installation company in Princeton, New Jersey. We offer 100% customer satisfaction and a no mess guarantee. Our products also come with a lifetime warranty. The employees at St. John Chimney Sweeps go through an extensive training and have earned certificates, which permit them to do the job right. We are honest and efficient in all our jobs. We are also a licensed and insured company. St John Chimney Sweeps is the most trusted New Jersey chimney sweep company. We have the experience and skills to far exceed your expectations. Give us a call today. We encourage you to look through our website and see all we have to offer.