Should I Have My Chimney Cleaned If I Didn't Use It?

Many homes come with chimneys and fireplaces already installed in them. In fact, the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association reports that nearly half of American homes have chimneys already installed. However, many homeowners choose not to use their hearths to heat their homes during the winter for a variety of reasons. If you do not have access to firewood it can be expensive to find appropriate, treated wood for your fireplace. Additionally, many climates simply are not cold enough to warrant lighting a fire during the winter season.

Should I Have My Chimney Cleaned If I Don’t Use It?

Plenty of homeowners assume they do not have to clean their chimneys out if they don’t use them, but that could not be further from the truth. If you do not use your chimney, you may not have to clean it as often, but you still should have a professional inspect and sweep your chimney to make sure it is safe.

Chimney Damage

Chimney damage can occur, even if you do not use it. Severe weather and moisture can affect the masonry and joints of your chimney, and this can lead to a chimney that is cracked or has shifted. A damaged chimney can collapse if not repaired in a timely fashion. Having your chimney inspected once a year will make sure your chimney has not endured serious damage that requires repair.

Moisture

Another issue that can occur with chimneys is moisture, and this can occur even if you do not use your chimney. Winter and rainy seasons take a toll on chimneys and if your chimney is exposed to prolonged moisture it can affect your chimney as well as the structure of your home. Many unused fireplaces and chimneys are not properly lined, leaving the structure of your home susceptible to moisture that has seeped in through the chimney. Having your chimney inspected can ensure no moisture is entering your home through your chimney.

Pests And Nests

Chimneys that are not in use are often warm, dry places for animals and birds to call home. Squirrels, birds and even mice can crawl into your chimney, make nests and wreak havoc on the masonry of your chimney. If you are not using your chimney, this issue can go undetected for quite some time. Having your chimney inspected for pests, and subsequently swept can alleviate pests in your chimney to keep it clean and safe. Having your chimney swept by a professional chimney sweeping company like White Glove Chimney is imperative, even if you do not use your chimney. A professional chimney technician will come to your home and use special equipment to inspect the inside and outside of your chimney to discover any chimney damage, sweep the chimney out and recommend any repairs. Schedule a chimney inspection with White Glove Chimney And Air Duct as part of your spring cleaning checklist to make sure the integrity of your chimney is intact all year long.