As we move on from spring to summer, a thorough cleaning is a great way to celebrate the changing seasons. Many homeowners get into spring cleaning mode to tackle their top-to-bottom housecleaning project. But while they’re busy cleaning the inside and outside of their home, they often neglect their fireplace.
In general, your fireplace becomes full of filthy soot, ash, and creosote from months of burning. If you have a fireplace, your spring cleaning isn’t complete until you’ve had your chimney cleaned and inspected. It’s not too late to add your chimney to your spring to-do list. Let’s take a look at how to clean your fireplace and the benefits of cleaning your fireplace and chimney this summer.
Check These Areas During Your Spring Cleaning
While it’s best to have a professional conduct a chimney sweep, there are some tasks that homeowners can perform themselves. Chimney caps are an inexpensive preventative chimney solution to prevent water from penetrating and damaging your chimney. Therefore, it’s crucial to make sure it fits securely and there aren’t any draft obstructions from debris.
Additionally, inspect the chimney crown and exterior for cracks and crumbling brick. If there are cracks in the chimney, then water will seep in and cause serious damage. In some cases, homeowners can purchase a sealant to cover small cracks. However, larger cracks could mean that the chimney is compromised and will need professional repair.
Other areas in the chimney that you should check include:
- Damper
- Firebox
- Flue
- Chimney flashing
Benefits of a Chimney Inspection During Spring Cleaning
Not only is a dirty, clogged chimney unpleasant to look at, it’s also dangerous. A chimney inspection helps locate and solve chimney issues before they can become an even bigger problem. Homeowners can enjoy the benefits of a safe environment to live while enjoying a clean hearth.
But these aren’t the only reasons a chimney spring cleaning is important. Other benefits include:
- Eliminating odors in your home – Odors caused by creosote and ash in your chimney can be eliminated early in the year and keep your home smelling fresh.
- Prolonging your chimney’s life – Creosote can cause your chimney’s interior to deteriorate when it mixes with moisture. A good cleaning of the chimney removes this creosote and allows your chimney to last longer.
- Saving money – An early inspection can locate problems early before becoming a more expensive issue down the road.
- Scheduling a chimney sweep at your convenience – Chimney sweep appointments tend to increase as the temperature begins to drop during the fall months. Waiting can cause appointments to fill up and prolong your chimney sweep. Scheduling a chimney cleaning early in the spring will work within your schedule and at your convenience.
Chimney Spring Cleaning By a Professional
While conducting your spring cleaning, don’t forget about your chimney. If you notice cracks, leaks, or other signs of deterioration, contact a chimney professional. The Chimney Expert has over 20 years of experience servicing Milwaukee chimneys. We provide high-quality chimney work from highly qualified chimney pros. Don’t wait until a problem arises to have your chimney inspected. Contact us today!