Your chimney system may be most noticed in the winter, but it needs attention year-round! Summer is the perfect time to begin preparing for winter. This means making sure your fireplace, chimney, and fuel is all ready for burn season.
Taking care of these things during the summer means you will miss the fall rush – the months between October and January when chimney sweeps are especially busy. Summer is the perfect time to schedule maintenance and repairs, too. Since it’s the off season, your fire is already out.
Summer Repairs
- Chimney Sweep
Though not a repair, this chimney maintenance is a preventative step that will keep your chimney system working longer. A clean chimney will prevent odors, build up, reveal damage, and raise efficiency for the upcoming burn season. - Chimney Inspection
The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends chimney inspections annually for the safest and most efficient chimney systems. By scheduling these inspections during the summer, you give yourself time for necessary repairs before fall. - Crown Repairs
A year of seasonal weather can wear down even a well-constructed chimney crown. The crown is important because it covers the top of the chimney, keeping water out. If your chimney sweep discovers any weakness or damage to the crown during your inspection, it will need repairs. At Pristine Sweeps we utilize CrownCoat from ChimneySaver. It’s a flexible waterproof sealant that covers cracks and protects the crown from water penetration! - Tuckpointing
Spalling masonry is a very common occurrence after a harsh winter, or as a result of water damage. Pristine Sweeps often sees cracking mortar and flaking bricks during routine inspections and can schedule a repair before any significant damage occurs. Tuckpointing is the process of removing the old mortar and replacing it with a new one of equal color, strength, and texture. The finished product is always beautiful, and can be topped with a waterproofing sealant for added protection. - Firebox Repair
The most abused part of the chimney is usually the most overlooked. The firebox endures the highest temperatures and the most concentrated chemical byproducts and fuel. A well-constructed one can become damaged over time and may need repairs. This type of repair is best done over the summer, when the fireplace isn’t used – and you have time for adequate repairs before fall.
Count On Us!
If you remember to schedule your routine chimney sweep and annual inspection this summer, it will save you a headache this fall! Standard procedure is to stop using the fireplace and chimney twenty four hours before an appointment. Depending on how extensive the repairs will be, you may be without your fireplace for several days. Scheduling repairs during the summer means the cost won’t interfere with your holiday budget, too! There’s really no reason not to schedule repairs now.
Call Pristine Sweeps at 206-574-8414 to discuss your summer chimney checklist today. We can help you with everything from routine maintenance to extensive masonry rebuilds!