The heating season is upon us once again.  Now is the time to consider the upkeep necessary for your heating
system and chimneys.  By maintaining your heating system and chimney you save money and prevent extensive
problems in the long run.  

Unprotected chimneys and foundations crumble, roofs leak around faulty flashing, gutters clogged with debris
overflow, neglected wood siding deteriorates, and wood structure rots.

The durability of a chimney depends most of all upon its ability to resist water penetration.  Brick, stone and
concrete are not as solid as they look.  They expand and contract.  Masonry absorbs moisture and heat at
different rates, which causes movement.  Untreated masonry is very porous, readily soaking up water.  A
masonry chimney must be protected from damaging rain and snow, and serviced yearly.

Here are some indicators of trouble:

·        Damp spots on the inside wall or near the chimney
·        Water running out of the base of the chimney
·        White powdery stains or black sooty ones on the outside bricks
·        Broken tiles or mortar
·        A rusted damper assembly in the fireplace
·        Irregular sounds when the furnace starts up (which could mean your furnace is malfunctioning because the
flue is blocked with soot and debris washed down by water in the exhaust gases)

If you note one or more of these signs, have your chimney inspected by a Certified, Licensed and Insured
chimney sweep professional.

Exterior damage is easy for the practiced eye to spot, but problems inside the flue are a tougher call.  Most
professional companies can offer a Level 2 and/or Level 3 video inspection by using hi-tech closed circuit
evaluation equipment.  This latest technology allows the interior of a chimney to be examined thoroughly for any
damage or corrosion.  Instant pictures and video can record the entire chimney flue.

Hi-efficiency gas or oil fired appliances venting into an unlined chimney or an oversized clay-tile liner can result
in high volumes of acidic condensation collecting on flue walls and causing severe damage.  Mortar and masonry
can be eaten away, rendering a chimney unsuitable for further use.

Another common occurrence is for soot and debris to be washed down and clog the flue soon after installation of
a high efficiency appliance.  This presents the threat of carbon monoxide poisoning when the colorless, odorless
product of incomplete combustion spills into the house.
In such cases, the appliance needs its own code-compliant vent pipe running up inside the length of the
chimney.  Many sweep companies’ offer this installation service.

A neglected chimney can predispose a house to catching on fire.  If damage is not too severe, a chimney can be
repaired.  It will need shielding on the outside from excess moisture and acidic exhaust gas condensation on the
inside.

A spray coat of a water-repellent product made for masonry applications is your best defense against wind
driven rain and snow.

Installing a rain cap on your chimney is another smart move.  This will keep animals from finding a home in the
warmth of your chimney and also keep debris from falling into the flue.  It will also protect the chimney from
direct water pouring in through an “open flue”.

Call your local Certified, Licensed and Insured chimney professional today!
Innovative Chimney Corp, 631-285-7887
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1.866.899.8989