HomeProMatch - Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)
A home chimney provides an outlet for smoke and an inlet for clean air to fuel a fire. Through this process, a fireplace disperses heat throughout the home. But if the chimney itself or liner is damaged or dirty, this will lower the efficiency of your unit and also pose a safety issue.
Regularly repairing and cleaning your chimney not only lowers your maintenance costs, but it can also increase your home's value. HomePro Match makes it easy for you to find you a chimney contractor near you who can efficiently inspect, clean, and repair your system.
How much does it cost for a chimney repair?
Chimney repair costs vary based on the type of brick, lining, and other materials used and the extent of the damage to the chimney. Costs also vary based on where the chimney is located and the condition of the chimney crown. Chimney repair costs typically range from $90 to about $2,000. To know exactly how much your chimney repair will cost, contact a local chimney repair contractor for an estimate.
Do Chimney cleaning logs really work?
Chimney cleaning logs are a very popular and easy way for homeowners to clean their chimney, specifically the creosote buildup in the chimney and flue pipe. Creosote is a black, oily substance that wood-burning naturally produces. This creosote builds up over time in your chimney due to frequent use and can cause serious issues, such as fires. Chimney cleaning logs help dry out and break up the creosote so it becomes flaky and falls down to the firebox to sweep away. So, do chimney cleaning logs really work? Cleaning logs do their job in breaking up creosote to sweep away, however, hiring a professional chimney sweep is recommended to detect other potential issues and clean buildup that can only be reached by a professional. If creosote buildup is severe, contact your local chimney cleaning contractor for expert help.
What is a chimney cap and do I need one?
A chimney cap is used to cover the outside opening of your chimney. There are many benefits to installing a chimney cap, such as the prevention of rain or any other precipitation from seeping into the chimney, dampening the fire. Chimney caps also prevent animals such as birds from nesting in the chimney or other animals like squirrels from entering the chimney. Although chimney caps offer these benefits, there are some downsides, making chimney caps an option only for some. For one, chimney caps can collect creosote and soot just like your chimney flue pipe does, making cleaning a must for chimney caps. Chimney caps can also collect ice from heavy snowstorms, causing a blockage in the cap. Depending on how often you use your fireplace or wood-burning stove and based on the pros and cons you see in each situation, a chimney cap can be a good option for you. Contact your local chimney contractor for more information on the types of chimney caps available.
What is a chimney Flue Pipe?
A chimney flue pipe is used to carry the gases and smoke produced from your fireplace or wood-burning stove to the outside. Your chimney flue pipe lives inside of your chimney and is usually lined by materials, such as clay or steel, to help insulate and stand the test of time. If there is damage to your flue pipe such as cracks, these harmful gases and smoke produced by your fire can escape into your home and cause even more harm to your home and the people living in it.
How can I tell if my chimney needs cleaning?
There are several tell-tale signs that your chimney is in need of cleaning. One sign you may notice is that your fires burn poorly. If it seems as though your fires take a while to start and/or don’t really burn that efficiently, this is a sign that you need a cleaning. Chimneys that need cleaning also usually produce a bunch of smoke buildup when burning the wood that can either fill up the room or the entire home. Even when your chimney is off you can tell if you need a cleaning just by noticing if there are bad odors coming from it when it’s not being used, or if you feel rush of cold air near it when not in use. Make sure to check the inside of the chimney walls as well for any black, greasy soot or creosote. This grease and creosote can quickly build-up and become very hazardous to your home and the people living in it. If you notice any of these signs, contact a professional chimney cleaner immediately for help.
Why does a chimney separate from a house?
As time goes on, many of our once “new” appliances wear out and can sometimes lead to serious damage if not taken care of right away. Leaning/tilted chimneys, those that separate from your house, can happen over time. Your chimney can separate from your house for different reasons. One, the soil the chimney is standing on could be loose as it expands and contracts with water and warm to cold climate conditions. Your chimney can also start to lean based on the cracks of the concrete supporting the chimney. If you notice any usually bludge or gaps between your home and your chimney, contact your local chimney repair contractor for an inspection. A professional will be able to help you determine the issue and fix it in a timely matter before it becomes worse.
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