Top Signs You Need a Raleigh Chimney Inspection

April 12, 2019
If you have a working fireplace in your home, it’s essential to have your chimney inspected and maintained every so often. Even if you only use the fireplace a few times a year, buildup of soot and debris can still present a serious threat to your safety. Below are some...
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How to Close Out Your Fireplace for Spring

March 22, 2019
Spring is around the corner and with it the warm weather. With that comes the end of fireplace season and properly closing your fireplace is an important part of being safe and efficient. A few things you can do each year to close your fireplace are: Cleaning the fireplace, and...
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Does My Fireplace Really Need Maintenance?

February 10, 2019
Do Fireplaces Really Need Maintenance? “Fireplaces are maintenance free!” This is a very common misunderstandings about fireplaces that homeowners have. Your fireplace is not invincible, and should be inspected annually to ensure that your structure is free of damage. Having your fireplace cleaned and inspected, not only prevents smells from...
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The 5 Most Common Chimney Issues

January 13, 2019
This article will help you identify the five most common issues that will occur with ownership of a chimney. If you experience any of these issues, contact your local chimney sweep to help resolve them immediately. Creosote Owning a wood burning fireplace and can be very relaxing and great way...
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Ways to Minimize Creosote Build-Up

January 6, 2019
Creosote is a natural by-product of burning wood that originates from condensed wood smoke. Because of this any wood burning fireplace will eventually have a buildup of creosote in there chimney. While creosote is unavoidable, there are several ways to slow and reduce buildup as quickly. Making sure your burning...
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Why You Should Have a Fire Escape Plan

December 9, 2018
Fire safety is important for you and your family, and even if it never happens. Having the proper plan to keep everyone safe is necessary to being prepared for the worst. By just doing a couple things you can make sure your loved ones are safe. Talk with everyone in...
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Do I Have a Spark Guard? Ask an Apex Chimney Repair Blog

November 11, 2018
If you have a chimney cap you are required by code to also have a spark guard. Also known as a spark arrestor, these screens attach to the cap to help prevent sparks or other hot debris from exiting the chimney and catching fire to the roof of your home....
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What to Expect During Your Fireplace & Chimney Inspection

September 23, 2018
When having your fireplace and chimney inspected annually there are certain things to expect during the process. If a sweep is CSIA certified you can expect quality service each time because the sweep will follow the procedures and codes set forth by the CSIA. During each inspection a sweep will...
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Why Does My Gas Fireplace Have Soot?

August 27, 2018
Having a fireplace in your home is something that most people find cozy. From using it for warmth to just as an ascetic piece, it’s a great addition to any home. Newer homes are typically being installed with gas inserts; these inserts if installed properly are much more practical, since...
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Don’t Forget Your Fireplaces this Summer

August 5, 2018
Just because the warmer weather is on its way doesn’t mean it isn’t the right time for your chimney inspection & cleaning. Just like your other appliances, proper maintenance is important to having a long life with your fireplace. Both gas & wood burning should be cleaned and inspected annually...
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Why Summer is the Best Time to Get Your Chimney Inspected

July 18, 2018
Most people don’t think about their chimneys during the summer months because the last thing on your mind is the harsh cold of winter when the summer breeze is calling your name. There are however advantages to getting your chimney cleaned and inspected during the summer months: Easier scheduling: While...
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Common Chimney Misconceptions As Explained By Our CSIA Chimney Sweep

June 18, 2018
Wood burning fireplaces are outdated and unconventional: While many newer homes are being built with gas fireplaces there are still several advantages to owning a wood burning fireplace or stove. Wood burning typically uses no electricity helping to lower your electric bill for heating as well as being able to...
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Gas Vs. Wood Burning Fireplaces: What Works Best?

June 8, 2018
If you’re thinking about either installing that new fireplace in your home, or maybe you’ve considered the concept of maintaining the old existing wood burning fireplace, there are several options to consider.  What makes each type unique and special to each other is the fact that while both create a...
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The Importance of Waterproofing Your Chimney

May 20, 2018
One of the fastest ways to see your chimney become crippled is to be complacent about water damage. Water damage will destroy the foundation of your chimney system and can lead to dangerous situations for your home. If you suspect a chimney leak or water damage on your system call...
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Chimney Swifts: What Are They & How Can I Remove Them From My Chimney?

May 4, 2018
  What Are Chimney Swifts? Chimney swifts are small birds that often reside inside of chimneys and air shafts. Their natural habitat is a large hollow tree, which they use to nest in the forests of North America that are becoming scarce due to deforesting. Chimney swifts are quite aerial...
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