Angie’s List Report: Chimney Mistakes
(WDEF) Skipping annual chimney inspections and cleanings can lead to big problems. So, before you cozy up in front of the fireplace, make sure it’s in good working order.
Angie Hicks of Angie’s List said, "If you live in a brand new house and don’t really use your fireplace you may not need a yearly inspection. But if you live in an older home they are very important because you might find that your foundation has settled and can pull the liner away and it can start to separate. So, you want to be sure it’s in good condition each year."
Dennis Lamb works as a certified chimney technician. He said, "If the crack is large enough to fit a nickel inside of it and/or it’s broken all the way through and the whole panel flexes on that crack, then it’s probably time to replace that panel. If those cracks are smaller than that and very superficial in nature then it’s not necessary to replace the panel at that time."
Angie’s List says if a certified chimney specialist uncovers a problem don’t simply take their word – demand proof.
Lamb added, "It’s important to see, I think, photographic proof of whatever it is you might be indicating that they have a problem with so they can see that for themselves."
Experts say another common mistake homeowners make is failing to use firewood that’s seasoned and dry. Lamb continued, "It also, the wood, needs to be split because the bark on a tree actually holds moisture in so once the wood is split and stacked and then it needs to dry for six months to a year and be covered."
While gas fireplaces may require less maintenance than a wood-burning fireplace, don’t skimp on it.
Lamb had this advice, "If you’re burning real wood in your fireplace and you have a problem, the house may smoke up and you know you have a problem. If you’re burning gas inside your fireplace and you have a problem, you might not know it ’cause it’s carbon monoxide and it’s deadly."
Chimney cleaning typically costs about between $150 and $200. Angie’s List says if someone knocks on your door and offers a super low rate to clean or inspect your chimney, you should probably pass on the deal.
Angie Hicks of Angie’s List said, "If you live in a brand new house and don’t really use your fireplace you may not need a yearly inspection. But if you live in an older home they are very important because you might find that your foundation has settled and can pull the liner away and it can start to separate. So, you want to be sure it’s in good condition each year."
Dennis Lamb works as a certified chimney technician. He said, "If the crack is large enough to fit a nickel inside of it and/or it’s broken all the way through and the whole panel flexes on that crack, then it’s probably time to replace that panel. If those cracks are smaller than that and very superficial in nature then it’s not necessary to replace the panel at that time."
Angie’s List says if a certified chimney specialist uncovers a problem don’t simply take their word – demand proof.
Lamb added, "It’s important to see, I think, photographic proof of whatever it is you might be indicating that they have a problem with so they can see that for themselves."
Experts say another common mistake homeowners make is failing to use firewood that’s seasoned and dry. Lamb continued, "It also, the wood, needs to be split because the bark on a tree actually holds moisture in so once the wood is split and stacked and then it needs to dry for six months to a year and be covered."
While gas fireplaces may require less maintenance than a wood-burning fireplace, don’t skimp on it.
Lamb had this advice, "If you’re burning real wood in your fireplace and you have a problem, the house may smoke up and you know you have a problem. If you’re burning gas inside your fireplace and you have a problem, you might not know it ’cause it’s carbon monoxide and it’s deadly."
Chimney cleaning typically costs about between $150 and $200. Angie’s List says if someone knocks on your door and offers a super low rate to clean or inspect your chimney, you should probably pass on the deal.
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