Tips for Inspecting Your Chimney and Fireplace

Having a roaring fire on a really cold night is one of the joys of the season. Get tips for inspecting your chimney and fireplace in this DIY Network video:

It’s important to inspect your chimney and clean your fireplace before the cold weather sets in.

Chimney:

1. Make sure the caulk work on the flashing is tight – no gaps or cracks – and that the flashing is properly secured to the roof.

2. Check the condition of the mortar in between the bricks. Remove any moss buildup or plant growth as plants roots can expand and break up the mortar and brick work.

3. Check that the chimney crown is tight and fill any cracks and with a cement or mortar patching compound. Cracks in the cement can trap water, which can freeze and expand, making the cracks bigger and destroying the crown.

4. Remove the chimney cap and inspect the flue liner to make sure it’s intact. The flue liner is what keeps your house safe when you’re burning a fire in your fireplace. Look for damage or anything that might obstruct smoke from getting out. Call in a chimney sweep to resolve any problems.

Fireplace:

1. Remove ashes from the firebox between fires. A pile of ashes will affect the draw of the fire and can send debris up the chimney. Shovel the ashes into a metal bucket as embers can remain hot for days. After a few days you can dump the ashes into the trash or onto a compost pile.

2. Inspect the inside of the firebox for cracks or deformations in the metal. For a masonry fireplace, check the bricks and mortar to make sure they are sound and intact.

3. Open the damper and look up the flue for creosote buildup. Call in the professionals to clean it every year if you use your fireplace a lot.