How To Increase The Lifespan Of Your Chimney

Like any other major home feature, your chimney needs regular maintenance and cleaning to efficiently expel smoke and dangerous gases while your family enjoys the fireplace’s warmth. While it may take more than a huff and puff to blow the stack down, chimneys can and do collapse. From the freeze-thaw cycle in the winter to frequent summer downpours and humid conditions, each passing day can accelerate the deterioration of essential components like the brick or stone masonry, chimney cap, crown, and damper, resulting in premature replacement or even a complete rebuild. So, let’s discuss how you can increase the lifespan of your chimney.

Get a Chimney Inspection Every Year

Annual inspections and cleanings by a Professional Chimney Sweep® are a must for ensuring the safety and longevity of your masonry or prefabricated chimney. Along with the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), and local fire safety experts, we highly recommend scheduling an inspection and thorough sweep at least once a year. It will allow us to remove flammable creosote buildup, clear obstructions, and clean out combustible debris in the flue, reducing the risk of potential fire and health hazards. Contact us for immediate attention if you notice any unusual smells emanating from your fireplace. It is often a sign indicating that your chimney needs cleaning or repair.

Replace Your Chimney Cap

A functioning chimney cap is an inexpensive but vital component for increasing the lifespan of your chimney in several ways. First, it covers the flue, preventing water intrusion that will damage the interior walls, liner, etc. Keep in mind that rainfall is acidic. And if you live in Isle of Hope, GA, Bluffton, SC, or other seaside communities, the corrosive salty air can also damage your chimney. Second, its wire mesh screen will keep out nosy critters and prevent debris from clogging the flue pipe. Third, a chimney cap with a spark guard will prevent hot embers from sparking a roof fire. So, if your chimney cap is damaged or missing, we will install a replacement cap that will help prolong the lifespan of your chimney.

Reline the Chimney

The flue expels smoke and fumes from a gas or wood-burning fireplace outside the home safely and efficiently. It should have a functioning liner to increase draft efficiency, ensure proper airflow, and contain the intense heat within the chimney so it doesn’t spread to nearby combustible materials. When the flue liner begins to crack or corrode, repairs or relining may become necessary to reduce the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. Being proactive with regular inspections and sweeping can help extend the life of your chimney system, increase energy efficiency, and minimize repairs.

Waterproof Your Chimney

Water damage is a leading cause of chimney failure and deterioration in northern Georgia and South Carolina. So, it’s crucial to ensure that water does not infiltrate the masonry, bricks, or mortar. While chimney caps effectively keep water out of the flue, waterproofing provides additional protection for the exterior masonry. At Advanced Chimney Sweep, our chimney professionals can apply a specialized waterproofing sealant that will repel water, snow, and sleet, protecting the exterior masonry while prolonging the chimney’s lifespan and reducing future repairs.

Chimney Inspection and Repair Services

It’s vital to schedule a yearly chimney inspection to ensure longevity and avoid more costly repairs. Protecting it from harsh weather conditions such as rain and snow is crucial in preserving its structural integrity. It will also help prolong its lifespan, ensuring you have a safe and efficient fireplace for years.

Advanced Chimney Sweep provides certified chimney inspections, cleaning, and repairs in the Our service area includes the CSRA (Central Augusta River Area) and the South Carolina Midlands region, including Augusta GA, Martinez GA, Evans GA, Dearing GA, Hephzibah GA, Lexington SC, Columbia SC, Orangeburg SC, Aiken SC and all areas in between. Call (803) 508-3990 or (706) 833-4630 today to schedule an appointment, or contact us online.