Worried your chimney is facing more wear and tear than it can handle? These structures are known for being strong and sturdy, but only when they are adequately protected from the elements. Fortunately for folks throughout the Lake Norman area, the team here at SirVent Chimney & Venting Service is here to help with it all. Follow our guidelines below, then reach out for further professional assistance from our qualified crew. We’d be happy to help with it all!
HAVE A CHIMNEY CAP INSTALLED
Every chimney needs to have some type of cover installed over the opening at the top. Otherwise, water, dirt, debris, animals, and more will work their way in causing clogs to form and significantly damaging the structure. An easy and affordable fix comes in the form of a chimney cap. A chimney cap is something that is fitted over the fireplace opening, and it blocks out all of these harmful things, so your system stays free and clear, no matter what.
Along with keeping out woodland critters, birds, snow, rain, and all kinds of leaves, twigs, and other nesting materials, chimney caps are also known for stopping downdrafts, which ensure your system stays running as efficiently as possible. And you won’t have to worry about cold, smelly winds sweeping through your living space, either!
All in all, the issues one faces when their chimney cap is missing are expensive and time-consuming to address. You’ll be forced to invest in a thorough sweeping, a lot of repair work, and the animal removal process can get messy, too. Avoid it all by getting our team on the job now. We can set you up with the perfect fit for your needs.
INVEST IN WATERPROOFING SERVICES
Another big must for those looking to keep their chimney in the best shape possible is investing in waterproofing services. If your masonry isn’t protected, water will quickly get absorbed into your brickwork and mortar, resulting in cracking, crumbling, and all kinds of deterioration. All in all, it leaves your entire system vulnerable, and it won’t be long before various chimney components start breaking down, rusting, and corroding.
Your home will also face damages in the form of rotting woodwork, stains on your walls and ceiling, clogs in your flue, and more. And if the freeze/thaw process occurs (which it likely will multiple times), then your structure becomes a lot more vulnerable to settlements and collapses. All in all, it’s not worth skimping on this effective preventative maintenance!
Thinking of doing it yourself? Unfortunately, store-bought sealers aren’t as effective as the high-quality products our professionals use, and attempting to paint the structure won’t do you any good, either. These strategies will leave your masonry looking worse at the end of it all and, while water will be effectively blocked out, any pre-absorbed moisture will stay trapped inside, where it will continue to wreak havoc.
For the best results possible, trust in our team to get the job done right with our vapor-permeable sealants that don’t affect the look of your structure whatsoever. We’ve got the tools and training to set you upright!
SWITCH TO AN ENERGY-TOP DAMPER
Throat dampers have been doing an effective job for homeowners throughout the past few decades, but nowadays many of our customers are switching to something even better – an energy-top damper! These devices are installed at the top of your chimney, rather than the throat of it, and they are secured with a rubber gasket, so there’s no more worrying about air seeping through that metal-on-metal seal.
These units also work alongside your chimney cap to keep out rain, snow, and excess debris, so you get all that extra protection you desire. And they’re designed to be discreet, so you won’t need to stress about them turning your chimney into an eyesore. Ready to get yours? Our team can get this process going. Call today.
HAVE YOUR CHIMNEY FLASHING LOOKED AT
Flashing consists of metal pieces that cover the vulnerable area where your roof and chimney meet. Since these two parts of your home are made from different materials, they expand and contract at different rates, making it easier than ever for water to work its way in and cause damage.
With properly fitted flashing in place, you won’t need to stress about moisture working its way into your home. Ask our professionals about setting you up with everything you need to live safer. We’ve got the know-how to get the job done right.
SCHEDULE YOUR ANNUAL INSPECTION
While all of the solutions we’ve discussed will do wonders for your chimney’s health, one of the most important steps a homeowner can take is investing in annual inspections. This gives your sweep the opportunity to spot creosote accumulation, debris build-up, and any damages that need addressing. The sooner these things are detected, the quicker your techs can get them fixed, ensuring you face as few issues as possible down the road.
Don’t wait any longer – our CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps are here and ready to set you up with everything you need to keep your home, chimney, and family better protected in the months ahead. Ready to get your inspection on the books? Call now to guarantee a spot that works best for your schedule. We’re ready to speak with you soon!