Blog Post

Keeping Water Out

  • By George Elias
  • •
  • 12 Feb, 2014
  • •
Rain may be nice in romantic movie scenes, but in daily life it hinders many activities.  Water can also be detrimental to your chimney. This is why having your yearly sweep and inspection is so important. While doing this, technicians will be able to make sure there are no cracks in the structure, which could lead to big problems for your entire home. To schedule your appointment call Young’s Chimney Service today!
Waterproofing isn’t something you want to attempt on your own. Getting the job done right can save you lots of money and heartache later.
How does water enter the chimney?

There are many ways water can enter the chimney. The most common way is through a crack in the structure of the chimney or flue, and is usually from precipitation. Also, damaged flashing can be a problem. Your technician will be able to check this and replace it if needed.

What does the water do to my chimney?

When water makes its way into your chimney, it can begin to mold at a rapid pace within one to two days. You may not recognize it at first because mold comes in a variety of colors and textures. As the mold spreads, it can work its way into the foundation of your home and become airborne. This puts your overall air quality in danger, especially if someone has a pre-existing health condition.

How can I prevent these water problems in the future?

While there is no way to be sure water does not enter your chimney, there are ways to try to prevent it. First, it is important to make sure you have a credible technician working on your chimney. One reliable organization is the Chimney Safety Institute of America. (CSIA) Aside from the annual maintenance, you should have your chimney waterproofed, especially if you live in an environment where wet weather is common. This can be done any time you have had dry weather for at least 24 hours. The process is simple, as they will spray a layer of repellent all over the outside of the chimney to create a seal as it dries. It may take multiple coats, so pick a time when dry weather is forecasted for a couple days in a row. This repellent can have coats applied every six or more hours.

All About Chimney Mold

By George Elias • July 9, 2014
Do you have a stinky chimney on your hands? Or perhaps you see mold or signs of water damage on or around your chimney? Are you suffering from allergies that you believe may be attributed to chimney mold? Those of us at Young’s Chimney Service see mold accumulate not only inside the chimneys we care […]

Chimney Rule: No Animals Allowed

By George Elias • June 23, 2014
Animals in your chimney can cause huge problems. They can bring an assortment of parasites with them and, at the same time, can cause a blockage in your chimney that could ultimately result in dangerous (and potentially deadly) byproducts of combustion being unable to travel up and out of your chimney. Most birds, squirrels, and […]

Dryer Vent Safety

By George Elias • June 14, 2014
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Carbon Monoxide: an Overview

By George Elias • May 28, 2014
Known as the “silent killer,” carbon monoxide can enter your home from many different sources, and you will never know because you will not be able to smell or see it, even at deadly high levels. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commision (CPSC), approximately 170 people die, on average, every year in this […]

All About Liners

By George Elias • May 12, 2014
One of the most critical parts of your chimney is your liner. It runs down the inside of your chimney flue, protecting the masonry from excessive heat.

6 Questions to Ask Your Sweep

By George Elias • April 25, 2014
How often should I have my chimney cleaned or inspected? This, as well as many other questions are answered below.

4 Ways to Extend the Life of Your Chimney

By George Elias • April 8, 2014
In the market for anti-aging products? You’re in the right place. That’s what we do. Except that we’re focused on slowing time’s effect on your chimney, not on your face. You see, one thing that you never want to have to face is the prospect of replacing your chimney entirely, especially if it’s a masonry […]

Prep Your Chimney For The Spring Rains

By George Elias • March 30, 2014
While Florida’s weather makes our fireplace use and maintenance schedule a little different than it is in some other parts of the country, one thing is pretty universal: Spring rains will take their toll on a chimney system that isn’t prepared to withstand them. Really no matter where you are, moisture is the most tenacious enemy […]

Common Blockages to Your Chimney

By George Elias • March 21, 2014
When there is a blockage on the road, you find a detour. When there is a blockage in your arteries, you have to have surgery. Chimney blockages are also detrimental, as they cause draft problems and an increased risk of fires. It is important that you hire an experienced chimney sweep to do the inspection. […]

Basics of Ash Removal

By George Elias • February 28, 2014
How is ash removed? Should it even be removed? Why should it be removed? What’s going to happen if I don’t remove the ash from my fireplace or wood stove? These are some of the many typical questions our clients ask us every day. We from Young’s Chimney Service would like to take this opportunity […]
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