Why You Shouldn’t Attempt DIY Chimney Repair | Cary Chimney Repair
If your chimney is cracked, crumbling, smelly, or leaning, you might be tempted to tackled the job yourself. However, attempting a chimney cleaning or chimney repair yourself is ineffective at best, and downright dangerous at worst. Here are some reasons why chimney work is best left to the professionals.
A chimney is not just a hollow brick tower
It’s important to understand that a chimney is not just a column made of brick. It is, in fact, a machine that generates airflow and fuel combustion effectively and safely. As such—as a machine—chimneys are more complicated than they appear. The outside is generally brick, but the flue—the interior column—is typically made of clay tile. In fact, there are generally two flues: One for the fireplace, and one for the home’s central heating system. In summary, most homeowners don’t have the technical understanding of the chimney structure necessary to repair it safely. Professionals have the skills and experience to make the chimney functional and safe.
You probably won’t be able to spot (and remove) all the creosote
There are three different types of creosote: first degree, second degree, and third degree. First degree creosote is the type you probably notice when you look into your chimney, and can be easily removed with a wire chimney brush or another household chimney cleaning tool. However, second and third degree creosote aren’t as noticeable from the ground level. If you’re inexperienced at cleaning chimneys, you might think that you’ve got all of it, but there is a good chance that creosote is hiding where you can’t see it.
Household creosote removal solutions aren’t strong enough
There are many household chimney cleaning products on the market that claim to be able to completely remove creosote. However, these typically only work against first degree creosote, and are generally ineffective against second or third degree creosote. Third degree creosote is actually a liquid that can seep into cracks and joints in the chimney, and is therefore not easy to identify or get rid of. CSIA-certified chimney sweeps have professional-grade cleaners and equipment that is tough enough to get rid of all types of creosote, as well as a trained eye that can spot creosote that might look like a stain or shadow to you.
A professional chimney cleaning includes a chimney inspection that could save your life!
When you hire a professional chimney sweep to clean your chimney, you’re receiving two services for the price of one. All CSIA-certified chimney sweeps look for leaks, cracks, and defects as they clean. This is because, firstly, it’s our responsibility as chimney professionals and morally good people, and secondly, because if there are cracks and defects, they could be exacerbated by the cleaning process, causing a break which will require expensive repairs.
It’s important not to skip your chimney inspection. This is a small, inexpensive service that could save your life or your property. Creosote buildup, cracks in your chimney flue liner, a warped damper, or toxic black mold are all risks that can have deadly consequences!
Hire a Professional Chimney Sweep in Cary NC
If you’re looking for a chimney sweep you can trust in the Apex or Cary NC area, call Nexus Chimney Services! All of our chimney sweeps are CSIA-certified with up-to-date knowledge of state and local codes. You can count on us to thoroughly inspect your chimney and prepare it for another safe burning season.