The winter ritual of cozying up to a fireplace is to enjoy the warmth of the fire. Winter memories and daily life revolve around fireplaces, from Christmas morning gatherings to warming up on a cold day to winter evenings. However, our chimneys and fireplaces can be dangerous for our families and homes. When creosote accumulates in flues it can cause dangerous chimney fires. But, it is as simple as an annual clean to protect your family! Read on to learn more about the hazards of chimney fires and how to keep your home safe. A chimney fire occurs when built-up creosote ignites. The byproduct of burning wood that contains smoke, hydrocarbons and tar fog and other substances, creosote can build up inside your chimney. Unfortunately, creosote has a high combustibility. Chimney fires are either loud and violent or slow and smoldering.

Both of these fires are extremely hot and can cause damage to your chimney flue or fireplace. This could lead to an opening in the chimney’s chimney that allows the firewood to reach the combustible portions of your house. It is possible to prevent chimney fires! Call your local chimney sweep to schedule a cleaning. These experts can inspect for structural damage and deterioration as well as problems caused unnoticed by a chimney fire. Most chimney sweeping companies also provide repair services, so if the inspection turns up any problems, you can quickly and easily have them taken care of. Typical repairs include installing or replacing the cap (which keeps water and animals out of your flue), replacing bricks, repairing mortar, and waterproofing (which helps prevent damage caused by the freezing and thawing cycle). These repairs are important for optimal function, and will keep your chimney in great working order. Chimney sweep is a job best left to professionals. Make a search on the below mentioned website, if you are looking for more details on local chimney sweep.

Even the most experienced DIYers can rely on the knowledge of a chimney sweep. The inspection is nearly as important as the cleaning. It’s why it’s so important to hire a professional who knows what to look out for. Hire a certified sweeper. You may not need a license in every state. However, certified professionals are more likely to have the experience, training and quality you want. It is mandatory for homeowners to clean their homes every year, particularly if they use more than one cord per year.Clean chimneys lead to chimney fires. It’s a simple fact that dirty chimneys can cause problems. However, if you clean your chimney with regular sweepings, there will be no problem. So to safely enjoy your fireplace this winter, contact a chimney sweep. A chimney sweep is relatively affordable and takes only a few hours. It can make all the difference between a safe chimney or a ticking time bomb.