Some complaints uttered by disgruntled chimney service customers never seem to go out of style. One of my personal favorites: “My chimney sweep cleaned my chimney but told me I need to have someone else do the repairs because he doesn’t do that.” This is a common occurrence for smaller companies and for those who simply want to focus on one specific job. We’re in no way saying that there’s anything wrong with this line of thinking. In fact, it’s typically the best practice to stick to what you know. This will help to ensure that your customers are satisfied with the work you performed while you were in their home.
A chimney technician’s job is far more labor intensive that one might think. Chimney systems are comprised of many parts that depend upon one another to function at peak levels. A problem with one part of the system can cause another part of the system to have to work harder to pick up the slack, thereby causing that overworked component to wear out at a much quicker rate. This can become a vicious cycle rather quickly if the initial problem isn’t addressed in a timely manner. This is where the true benefit of a full service chimney company will really shine through! When you ask us at Fluesbrothers Chimney Service what we can do for you, we can honestly say that if it has anything to do with your chimney, fireplace, stove or insert, we can help you.
Problems with your mortar? We can help you!
The mortar used in the construction of your chimney is exposed to the elements on the outside and the heat from your firebox on the inside. This greatly speeds up the weathering process. As such, it’s not uncommon for it to begin to crumble and fall away, leaving open areas between the bricks, which only exposes even more to these weathering agents. As you might guess, this leads to even more issues. The process for repairing your damaged mortar is known as repointing. During this process, the damaged, old and loose mortar on your chimney is removed from the joints between the bricks and replaced with new mortar or masonry repair caulk. Only a skilled professional should repoint a chimney, as the work requires an experienced hand.
Problems with your flashing? We can help you!
Chimneys are notorious for leaking, and the culprit is almost always the flashing, which lies at the point where the chimney rises above the roof. It keeps water out of the chimney, protecting both the flue and roof. Flashings are made from a variety of materials (e.g., aluminum, copper, galvanized steel, and/or tin). You’ll want to have new chimney flashing installed is it’s missing, rusted through, falling out or completely covered with roofing tar (a common short-term fix that’s sure to be hiding bigger problems). Many homeowners also opt to have new flashing installed when having new shingles put on because they want it to last as long as the new roofing (anywhere from 25-40 years). Either way, your flashing’s importance cannot be overstated and should be kept in top working condition to prevent water intrusion.
Problems with your damper? We can help you!
The main purpose of a damper is to seal the chimney airtight when it’s not in use. Heat rises, and if the chimney isn’t sealed when the fireplace isn’t in use, all of the heat in the house goes up the chimney. Liken this to leaving your door open in the middle of winter. You wouldn’t do that, so why settle for a damper that doesn’t seal properly. There are two different types of dampers: top sealing and throat mount. Each type has its pros and cons; in a perfect world, you’d have one of each installed, as this would provide you with the best overall performance. Dampers are one part of your chimney that you shouldn’t leave to function inadequately.
Problems with your flue? We can help you!
According to the CSIA, problems in your chimney’s flue can present serious risks to your home and family, because it’s no longer able to perform its primary function: to safely contain and vent the products of combustion to the outside of your home. If your current liner was installed improperly or is deteriorating, it’s highly recommended that you either have a new one installed by a licensed professional or, if possible, have your current liner repaired. There are several different relining options (clay, stainless steel, and cast-in place liners), depending on both the type of flue liner you currently have and the overall condition of your entire flue. Because of the critical job completed by your chimney liner, it is a critical part. Every chimney needs a working liner.
Having said all of that, we at Fluesbrothers Chimney Sweep want you to know that we like to stick to what we know, too. This is why we’re a full-service chimney company: we clean, inspect, repair, rebuild, renovate, etc. If it’s chimney-related, we do it! And you can count on us to get the job done right the first time, every time. The Fluesbrothers difference is simple: training, certification, service and satisfaction. This includes everything we do from the first time you contact us until we know you’re 100% satisfied with our service and/or products. Give us a call!
