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How to Pick the Perfect Firewood

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Tue, 24 Nov 2015 05:24:15 GMT

How to Pick the Perfect Firewood

Most fireplace aficionados know that one of the main secrets to a wonderfully robust, long and evenly burning fire is using seasoned firewood. But what does that really mean? The answer is quite simple: seasoned wood is dry.

The dangers of burning wet firewood

If you’ve ever tried lighting a fire with wet wood – and who hasn’t – you probably understand. If you’ve succeeded in lighting a fire with wet wood, you understand something more: burning wet wood can be dangerous. In addition to the occasional explosions of steam that can send burning embers jettisoning across the room, as wet logs burn a dark filmy smoke is emitted. This is due to the production of a highly flammable oily wood-tar called creosote, which in turn rises to saturate the interior of your chimney.

Why aged wood?

Unlike wet wood, seasoned wood will not burn or singe. Instead, it will produce the long lasting smolder that all fireplace lovers prize. A freshly cut log has a moisture content of approximately 50%. The optimal moisture content for logs to be burned as firewood is 20%. That’s why the general standard for seasoned wood is logs that have aged at least six months to a year after being cut. This provides time for water and moisture contained within living wood to sufficiently evaporate.

Test for seasoning before you buy

Of course, unless you cut and season your own wood, it can seem impossible to determine whether or not the wood you are about to purchase has been appropriately seasoned. Fortunately, there are a few methods you can use to test for adequate firewood seasoning.

The Moisture Meter

The first is especially fun for those who love handy little gadgets. A moisture meter, which can be found at most hardware and home improvement stores, is your best bet for an accurate, exacting result. This handy instrument will tell you the exact moisture percentage remaining within the wood, and quickly.

A simple, tried & true test

If you prefer to save your pennies and go the old-fashioned, tried and true route, begin with a simple visual assessment. Seasoned wood should appear to be greying with age, with a drier, brittle texture. Next, strike two pieces of the wood together. Wood that creates a dull, thudding sound is a sure sign of wet wood, not yet fit for your fireplace. On the other hand, wood that resounds with a clear, hollow, ringing sound is ripe to produce that rip-roaring fire you’ve been dreaming of.

Additional Tips

CHOOSE HARDWOODS: Such as Cedar, Maple, Oak and Walnut for best results. Pine is acceptable, but not as preferable the higher density, lower sap hardwoods. Certain woods, particularly some softwoods, burn too unpredictably for safe indoor burning.
IMPORTANT SAFETY TIP: The best firewood is locally hewn, as it reduces the likelihood of wood-eating beetles setting in. This is a serious issue that has led some states to require that firewood only be sold in the county in which it was produced. Always exercise close inspection of the firewood for evidence of these or other pests before agreeing to purchase.
FIND A DISTRIBUTOR YOU TRUST: If you plan to use your fireplace regularly, pay attention to area sources offering firewood for sale. Find the local dealer consistently offering the best quality firewood, well seasoned and stored properly in a dry, ventilated place during seasoning, and stick with them.

We love fireplace season!

Contact Chimney Quest today to have our skilled chimney technicians provide Nashville chimney cleaning and inspection . If you need chimney repair or upgrades, we can help with that also. To schedule your appointment, call Chimney Quest at 615-292-7411. Here’s to another safe and fulfilling fireplace season!

The 6 Point Chimney Sweep & Check

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Sat, 07 Nov 2015 05:21:33 GMT

The 6 Point Chimney Sweep & Check

It’s happening again. Fall is quickly catching up with winter. Before we know it, the cold snap that’s been teasingly dancing in and out of our nights will be here to stay. By then, it’s important to be sure your chimney and fireplace have been cleared for takeoff. The last thing you need is to turn to your fireplace for warmth and support in the midst of a deeply chilling evening, only to find the room filling with thick, choking smoke. Have you been too busy to arrange your seasonal chimney cleaning and inspection? It’s time to call Chimney Quest for a 6 Point Chimney Sweep & Check.

Time to Get Ready!

We will get you ready for those chilling wintry nights. Our thorough sweeping of your chimney is followed by a point by point inspection to ensure every aspect of your chimney and fireplace are in perfect, safe, working order for the season.

The 6 Point Chimney Sweep and Check

Perform a thorough chimney sweeping and cleaning.
Check the chimney cap, flashing and masonry for any sign of water penetration.
Check the chimney liner for soundness – no cracks or other damage.
Check the damper for proper function, ensuring it opens and closes smoothly and easily.
Check for a safe burning circumference within the fireplace – minimally 18” clearance from anything that could easily catch flame (such as curtains or furniture).
Check fireplace for appropriate safety screen or fireplace doors to guard against explosive ember and for proper ash maintenance and removal.

Contact Chimney Quest today

Contact Chimney Quest today to have our skilled chimney technicians provide Nashville chimney cleaning and inspection . If you need chimney repair or upgrades , we can help with that also. To schedule your appointment, call Chimney Quest at 615-292-7411. Here’s to another safe and fulfilling fireplace season!

When you want the best, call Chimney Quest!

5 Easy Steps: How to Build a Fire in a Cold Fireplace

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 05:20:35 GMT

5 Easy Steps: How to Build a Fire in a Cold Fireplace

Seems like it should be second nature, doesn’t it? After all, even the cavemen had it figured out. So why does it sometimes seem so impossible to build a fire? A cold, non-primed fireplace and chimney present special challenges. Here are a few quick tips that will help you beat those challenges.

1) AVOID FIRE HAZARDS

Always protect your family and guests from danger by ensuring that your chimney and fireplace have been professionally swept and inspected before lighting your first fire of the season. You’ll never regret the personal injuries and property damage that don’t happen when your fireplace and chimney are well tended.

2) FULLY OPEN THE DAMPER

This permits all of the smoke, toxic gases, and other combustion byproducts to exit out of the chimney for safe operation. A closed or partially closed damper creates a smoky, potentially dangerous barrier, including the risk of sending carbon monoxide into your living space.

3) PRIME THE FLUE

Warm the flue of the chimney by holding a flame, such as from a candle lighter or a rolled up newspaper(lit) up through the damper opening. This counteracts the cold air entering through the flue, literally reversing its direction once the flue is warmed or primed. Lighting a fire without this step can be challenging, and tends to result in a smoke entering your home with the cold air.

4) ASH INSULATION

Line, or “insulate” the fireplace with a bed of 1” to 2” of ashes reserved from last year or your bbq grill to create a hotter fire.

5) BUILD UPSIDE-DOWN

Begin building your fire with the largest logs on the bottom, working smaller as you go up until the top layer of kindling. Light the fire at the top with your kindling. This prevents a cleaner, more efficient, longer lasting fire, as the fire and smoke does not have to work through colder, obstructing layers above.

Contact Chimney Quest

Contact Chimney Quest today to have our skilled chimney technicians provide Nashville chimney cleaning and inspection . If you need chimney repair or upgrades , we can help with that also. To schedule your appointment, call Chimney Quest at 615-292-7411. Here’s to another safe and fulfilling fireplace season!

What’s Stuck in the Chimney?

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 05:19:33 GMT

What's Stuck in the Chimney?

It’s been almost a year since you last used your chimney. But that doesn’t mean someone else hasn’t been making “good” use of it. Uh-oh…What’s stuck in the chimney?! There are a number of different wildlife species that consider a dormant chimney – maybe your dormant chimney – a very attractive new home. Raccoons, opossum, squirrels, bats, snakes, and birds such as the aptly named Chimney Swift (pictured above) are some of the most commonly found culprits to commandeer your chimney. But what’s the best way to reclaim your chimney?

Dangers of wildlife in your chimney

Well, if “uh-oh…” was your first response, you’re on the right track. It’s not hard to imagine the dangers to your family’s health and home that are associated with wildlife nesting in your chimney. The first and most obvious fact is that a blocked chimney is a non-functioning chimney. Next, as unsavory as the thought of your chimney interior being turned into a creature crib may be, it’s nothing compared to the possibility of them finding their way into the interior of your home. Trust us, it happens! After that, it’s important to consider the various types of illness and disease that are carried by different species of birds, animals, and reptiles, as well as that generated by the presence of their waste. Additionally, those using their chimney lair as a nursery may attract larger, more dangerous predators to steal eggs or newborn offspring.

DIY dangerous

Probably the largest danger involved with wildlife nesting in your chimney is the risk involved with d-i-y extraction. An experienced chimney sweep professional knows the right techniques to safely remove each species from your chimney, and ensure that they do not come back. They also know how to do all remediation necessary to remove the risk of contamination, as well as any necessary repairs.

Contact Chimney Quest

8 Common Causes of Chimney Fires

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Tue, 08 Sep 2015 05:18:39 GMT

8 Common Causes of Chimney Fires and how to prevent them

While you’re gearing up for winter, it’s important to remember to prepare your chimney for the season ahead. Chimney fires are a serious risk for those who leap into fireplace usage without the proper preparations. At Chimney Quest, we care about your health and safety. That’s why we’re bringing you these helpful tips on the top 8 causes of chimney fires and how to prevent them. For more information on preventing chimney fires in your home, you can always reach out to our Chimney Quest experts at (615) 292-7411.

1) Lack of appropriate chimney cleaning and maintenance

Chimneys and flues must be clean and well maintained. Always be sure to have your chimney and fireplace cleaned and inspected by a qualified professional before each seasonal usage.

2) Burning wood that is wet and/or unseasoned

Use only wood that is dry and appropriately seasoned in your fireplace.

3) Inappropriately sized burning appliance

Your burning appliance must receive enough airflow to allow fuel to burn properly.

Installing a carbon monoxide detector is a wise choice.

4) Wood left burning or smoldering overnight

Always be certain embers are properly extinguished before going to bed. Resist allowing a fire to burn when too sleepy to remain alert.

5) Use of flammable liquids such as gas or paraffin for ignition

Use only recommended fluids in safe amounts as necessary in lighting a fire.

6) Burning waste paper or boxes / Use of excessive amounts of paper

Cardboard boxes and waste paper of undetermined content can burn unpredictably and quickly become out of control.

7) Flying sparks from fireplace

The use of a firescreen or doors will do a great service in protecting against random explosive sparks from a hot fire.

8) Sparks escaping from spaces in damaged brickwork or joints

Do a thorough visual inspection of your fireplace and chimney for damaged brickwork or joints before building a fire. If present, avoid use until damaged area is repaired.

Periodically scan the fireplace and chimney during use to ensure no previously undetected areas of damage exist.

When you want the best, call Chimney Quest!

Contact Chimney Quest today to have our skilled chimney technicians provide Nashville chimney cleaning and inspection . If you need chimney repair or upgrades , we can help with that also. To schedule your appointment, call Chimney Quest at 615-292-7411. Here’s to another safe and fulfilling fireplace season!

Fall Fireplace Maintenance: Are You Ready?

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Tue, 08 Sep 2015 05:17:23 GMT

Fall Fireplace Maintenance: Are You Ready?

Now that the kids are back in school, it’s time to face the facts. Fall is on its way. We might as well embrace it, because there’s no turning back now. The truth is that there are plenty of things we love about fall. It’s hard not to be inspired by all the beautiful golden hues of the harvest season. And picking out and carving the family pumpkins each year is one of our favorite traditions. Then there’s the crisp, refreshing snap in the air, that sends us deep into the closets for those snuggly warm scarves and vests and gloves. Ooh, and speaking of snuggly warm, how about winding down after a long day with a glass of hot cider and a beautiful crackling fire? That’s more like it. Just one question: is your fireplace ready for fall?

Eliminate dangerous fire hazards

Have you had your chimney swept and inspected yet this year? Fall is the beginning of fireplace season, and national fire safety organizations all agree: having your chimney swept and inspected each year before lighting that first fire is crucial. Without a pre-season chimney inspection, your family and home may be at risk. A professional chimney sweep and inspection will identify and eliminate dangerous fire hazards, leaving you with a more efficient chimney and fireplace – not to mention peace of mind.

Contact Chimney Quest

Contact Chimney Quest today to have our skilled chimney technicians provide Nashville chimney cleaning and inspection . If you need chimney repair or upgrades , we can help with that also. To schedule your appointment, call Chimney Quest at 615-292-7411. Here’s to another safe and fulfilling fireplace season!

When you want the best, call Chimney Quest!

Is Your Chimney Dressed and Ready?

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Wed, 19 Aug 2015 05:16:20 GMT

Is Your Chimney Dressed and Ready?

Now that your kids have their new back to school wardrobe for fall, it’s time to take a look at your chimney. True, summer’s still here, but fireplace season will be here before we know it. There’s no better time than the present to get your chimney dressed and ready. Today we’re focusing on one of the easier ways to keep your chimney safe: the chimney cap.

The Chimney Cap

A small protective covering for the opening of your chimney, chimney caps come in a number of different styles to choose from. Chimney caps are invaluable in keeping your chimney clear and safe for the easy passage of smoke and burning embers.

Benefits of the Chimney Cap

The installation of a chimney cap creates a barrier that will prevent animals like squirrels, raccoons and birds, from making a comfortable home in your chimney. It will also dramatically reduce water entry from the outdoor elements, and the resulting damage to your masonry. Another important benefit of the use of a chimney cap is that wayward burning embers that could potentially make their way to your roof and cause a fire.

Go to the Pros

Choosing and installing the right chimney cap is not a task best left to diy-ers. The wrong size, a badly designed, or improperly installed chimney cap all impact chimney backdraft. This leads to poorer combustion and often, undesirable black smoke filling the room. This is one of those times it truly pays to go to the pros.

Contact Chimney Quest

Contact Chimney Quest today to have our skilled chimney technicians provide Nashville chimney cleaning and inspection . If you need chimney repair or upgrades , we can help with that also. To schedule your appointment, call Chimney Quest at 615-292-7411. Here’s to another safe and fulfilling fireplace season!

When you want the best, call Chimney Quest!

Creosote: a Deadly Presence in Your Chimney

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Thu, 06 Aug 2015 05:15:17 GMT

Creosote: A Deadly Presence in Your Chimney

Wood-burning fireplaces naturally create creosote, a residue which forms naturally during the wood burning process. The creosote is released process as a waste residue, and clings to the lining of your chimney as the smoke from burning logs escapes through the chimney shaft. Over weeks and months a dangerous and highly flammable deposit builds up. That’s why it’s so important to have an annual chimney sweeping from a professional company like Chimney Quest performed.

How does creosote form?

Of all the dirt and grime in our chimney, creosote is by far the most dangerous. Highly combustible, it is formed as wood burning by-products like smoke, gases, vapors, tar fog, unburned wood particles, hydrocarbon, and other minerals, are created. As these by-products seek exit through your chimney shaft, the chimney interior’s cooler temperature causes condensation to form, and the resulting residue produced in this process is creosote, clinging to the inner walls of your chimney.

What does creosote look like?

Creosote can be black, brown, or even deep greyish in appearance. It can be flaky and cracked, sticky and gummy, or shiny and hardened. All creosote is highly combustible. If your chimney’s internal flue reaches a high enough temperature in the presence of a sizable creosote buildup, you have a chimney fire waiting to happen. And unfortunately, they happen far too often.

What can I do to limit large creosote production in my chimney?

Restricted air supply will accelerate creosote deposits. Closing glass fireplace doors and not opening the damper wide enough for smoke and by-products to leave quickly enough through the chimney will accelerate the accumulation of creosote buildup on your chimney walls. Make sure your damper is always extended open as wide as possible while you are burning a fire, and be sure to open any fireplace doors once in a while, and avoid burning unseasoned (damp) wood. Your fire will expend so much extra energy burning off water trapped in the cells of unseasoned wood that the resulting smoke is cooler, which creates an optimal environment for creosote build-up.

Contact Chimney Quest

Contact Chimney Quest today to have our skilled chimney technicians provide Nashville chimney cleaning and inspection . If you need chimney repair or upgrades , we can help with that also. To schedule your appointment, call Chimney Quest at 615-292-7411. Here’s to another safe and fulfilling fireplace season!

When you want the best, call Chimney Quest!

5 Important Steps to Preventing Dryer Fires

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Thu, 23 Jul 2015 05:14:24 GMT

How often do you use your clothes dryer? If you’re like most Americans, you probably use it quite a bit throughout the week. Next question: how often do you clean out the lint trap? You’ve probably noticed just how quickly lint and other material build up in the filter, and recognize the importance of regularly emptying it. Unfortunately, far too many don’t give their clothes dryer’s venting and exhaust system the same consideration.

Among all household appliances, clothes dryers are one of the most dangerous if not properly maintained. A major fire hazard, the appliance and its venting system are associated with many, many residential fires each year, resulting in tremendous property damage, injury, and deaths – almost all entirely preventable. Lack of proper maintenance is the biggest culprit in causing these tragedies. The good news: regular professional dryer venting and exhaust system cleaning can protect your family from needless loss.

5 Important Steps to Preventing Dryer Fires

SCHEDULE REGULAR, ANNUAL VENTING & EXHAUST SYSTEM CLEANINGS
CLEAN THE LINT SCREEN WITH EACH LOAD
CHECK THE OUTSIDE EXHAUST VENT FOR CLOGS REGULARLY
REPLACE ANY PLASTIC OR FOIL DUCTING MATERIAL WITH RIGID OR CORRUGATED SEMI-RIGID MATERIAL
KEEP THE DRYER AREA CLEAN & CLUTTER FREE

Contact Chimney Quest

Schedule your professional clothes dryer venting and exhaust system cleaning! Our skilled dryer exhaust technicians will conduct a thorough cleaning, and ensure that your family is safe from the dangers of dryer vent fires, and will be happy to provide answers to any questions you have.

Contact Chimney Quest today to have our skilled chimney technicians provide Nashville chimney cleaning and inspection . If you need chimney repair or upgrades , we can help with that also. To schedule your appointment, call Chimney Quest at 615-292-7411. We look forward to hearing from you!

Thinking About a Facelift for Your Fireplace?

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Thu, 09 Jul 2015 05:13:11 GMT

Thinking About A Facelift For Your Fireplace?

A fireplace is a warm, wonderful addition to any home, and a great place to create memories that last a lifetime. Typically designed to be the focal point of a room, the fireplace is the place where everyone gathers on those long, cold, wintry nights, and for special holiday celebrations. But over time, style trends change, and your fireplace may have become your home’s biggest fashion victim. But don’t worry. The seasoned professionals at Chimney Quest can take transform your tired old fireplace into a beautiful, contemporary masterpiece. There are two primary options for giving your fireplace a fresh new look: refacing or inserts.

2 Main Options For Fireplace Refurbishing

Fireplace Refacing

PROS: A good option if your fireplace is in good shape, functions properly and safely, simple refacing is more convenient and affordable than a full insert replacement, while still giving you the opportunity to let your imagination roam as you create a stunning new fireplace facade in the material of your choice.
CONS: Refacing does not include the benefit of upgrading to a more efficient, newer heating appliance. Another drawback is that the application of the material in the design you’ve chosen will require more time for construction than installing a new fireplace insert.

Fireplace Inserts

PROS: A fireplace insert includes an appliance upgrade, which will mean you are now the proud owner of an extremely efficient and effective heating appliance, that will save you money on your heating costs. You can also opt to convert from wood to a gas-operated or pellet burning insert.
CONS: A fireplace insert is generally much more expensive than a simple refacing job. If your existing fireplace works properly and safely, you will probably want to opt to choose fireplace refacing rather than a fireplace insert. However, if you have a strong desire to convert your wood burning fireplace to a gas or pellet burning system, a fireplace insert is the obvious choice.

Now is the ideal time to get your chimney in tip-top shape for the upcoming chill of fall and winter, so if you’ve been thinking about giving your fireplace a facelift, give us a call at Chimney Quest today! Our licensed, experienced chimney professionals will be happy to provide answers to any questions you have. For all your Nashville chimney cleaning and inspection needs, call Chimney Quest at 615-292-7411. We look forward to hearing from you!

Your Summer Chimney: Give it a Rest with Chimney Quest!

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Mon, 29 Jun 2015 05:11:16 GMT

Your Summer Chimney: Give It a Rest with Chimney Quest

Summer time is a great time to lighten up your home. And how lovely does a beautiful collection of favorite seasonal blooms from your own garden look gracing the hearth? Shutting down your Middle Tennessee chimney is an important home maintenance habit many homeowners observe each year. If you’ve never shut down your chimney before, Chimney Quest is here to help. Here are a 4 quick steps that should be taken to close your chimney down until the brisk chill of fall returns to the air.

STEP 1. Cleaning… Before closing your fireplace for the season, all soot or ash deposits must be removed from the hearth. It’s also important to have your chimney swept and inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep to remove any soot and creosote in the body of the chimney. If this hasn’t been done yet, now is the time. Leftover residue in these areas will moisten and give off unpleasant odors inside your home. At Chimney Quest, we can apply professional chimney deodorants to eliminate any stubborn chimney odors, and return your home to its sweet smelling summer best!

STEP 2. Inspection… While you have a chimney sweep there to do the cleaning, you might as well have an overall chimney inspection completed too. In addition to looking for residue build up, a sweep can check the condition of various components, inspecting them for cracks and leaks. Two key components that may prove troublesome in the spring are the flashing system and rain cap. Each of these items works to protect the chimney from water leakage, which is more likely during the spring rainy season. A professional chimney sweep will ensure that these parts are intact and undamaged, keeping your home safe from flooding. The inspector will check all other key items, including chimney piping, which could have become corroded from prolonged heat exposure, and replace it if needed. To further guard your home, the chimney damper/cap should be securely closed too, which will keep out pesky animals that like to invade your chimney, like raccoons.

STEP 3. Close the Damper… If you are planning to shut down your chimney for the season, for all wood-burning fireplaces the damper needs to be closed. Truly, any time your wood-burning fireplace is unused for an extended period of time, the damper should be closed to block air and odors from entering and exiting the house. If air is escaping from your home and into a wood-burning fireplace unit, glass doors can be installed and work together with the closed damper, creating a tighter seal. DISCLAIMER: gas fireplaces are very different from a wood-burning unit, and should always have an open damper.

STEP 4. Shut Down the Pilot… You know that little flame that remains lit in your gas fireplace? If you haven’t already turned it off at the onset of your chimney’s dormant period, do so now. Or of course, we’ll do it for you. While the pilot light isn’t very strong, it does use up plenty of energy over a period of time, costing you money. So, shut it down until you’re ready to resume fireplace function again.

Caring for your chimney and fireplace now is the best way to ensure that that it will be in top condition at the advent of fall and winter’s chilly temperatures. Give us a call at Chimney Quest today! Our licensed, experienced chimney professionals will be happy to provide answers to any questions you have. For all your Nashville chimney cleaning and inspection needs, chimney repair, or upgrades call Chimney Quest at 615-292-7411.

Water vs. Chimney

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 05:10:24 GMT

Water vs. Chimney

There’s an epic battle going on in the war for your chimney’s health. Water is the biggest enemy of a masonry chimney, and with all the rain we’ve had lately, that’s a serious cause for concern for Middle Tennessee homeowners. Brick, mortar, and concrete, used in the construction of a chimney are all susceptible to the effects of direct contact with water and water penetration.

How does water damage masonry?

Masonry materials are porous, so they easily absorb water. When masonry materials become overrun with water, corrosion and deterioration damage soon follow. Not unlike the natural erosion we see taking place in areas where creeks and rivers run, water etches cracks and crevices into your chimney’s masonry. The freeze and thaw cycle of winter increases the severity of this process. The water trapped inside masonry material freezes when the temperature reaches the freezing point. When water freezes, it expands up to as much as 10 percent. This expansion causes the masonry materials to break apart when the water thaws in a process called spalling. Left unrepaired, the damage caused by spalling will likely spell structural failure within your chimney and may lead to a collapse.

How to win the war against your chimney

Since the exterior of your chimney is constantly exposed to the elements of weather, protecting its masonry work will prolong its life. At Chimney Quest, we can help you take the steps you need to win the war against your chimney.

STEP 1:

The installation of a chimney cap

A chimney cap is a prime weapon against the harmful infiltration of the water that can lead to spalling. Without a chimney cap, your chimney is an open door for water from rain and melted snow to freely enter.
An added benefit of the use of chimney caps: they can serve to block birds and animals from nesting inside your chimney
Chimney caps are typically made from galvanized metal, stainless steel, or copper
Chimney caps also vary in type, including a standard cap, a top-mounted damper, a draft-increasing chimney cap, and a custom-made cap

STEP 2:

The application of waterproofing

Waterproofing your chimney can reduce the need for repairs and extend its life.
A 100% vapor permeable waterproofing sealant especially made for masonry chimneys allows your chimney to “breathe” by letting vapors and gases escape while protecting the masonry work from water intrusion.

If you would like more information about water damage protection, restoration, chimney repair or upgrades, call our professionals at Chimney Quest today! Taking steps to win the war against your chimney today is a smart investment! Call Chimney Quest today at 615-292-7411.

7 Signs of Chimney Repair Needs

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Fri, 22 May 2015 05:09:23 GMT

7 Signs of Chimney Repair Needs

By now you probably know it’s a mistake to take your chimney for granted; a mistake than can prove both costly and dangerous. When problems arise, and your chimney is in need of repair or maintenance, early recognition and management of the issue can help eliminate further related structural damage, minimize cost, and protect the safety of your loved ones. At Chimney Quest, we want to help you and your family stay safe, save money, and enjoy the comfort of your home. Here is a list of seven of the most obvious signs of the need for chimney repair. We hope it is helpful!

1-Efflorescence or White Staining

White discoloration on a chimney is called efflorescence. While it’s fairly simple to remove the staining, cleaning it doesn’t solve the moisture problem which causes the white residue. Efflorescence is a clear indication of excess moisture in the masonry. If it isn’t dealt with, premature deterioration of the chimney will likely occur, in addition to other potential problems related to moisture.

2- Rust

There shouldn’t be rust on your firebox or damper; but if there is, it’s a clear sign that there is excess moisture in your chimney. You may not notice rust on the damper readily; but if it doesn’t seal well or operate properly, it could be because it’s rusting. If there’s enough moisture in your chimney to cause visible signs of rusting, there could also possibly be serious damage, such as cracked flue tiles. It’s important to get the help of a professional chimney sweep like Chimney Quest, who can use a special camera to inspect the flue lining and ensure there isn’t a breach in the chimney system which could ultimately cause a house fire.

3-Deteriorating Mortar Joints

Damaged mortar joints between chimney masonry should be repaired quickly. When the mortar deteriorates, the masonry is exposed to more moisture, which accelerates the deterioration of the entire chimney. In freezing weather, the added moisture can freeze inside cracks in the masonry. When moisture thaws and freezes in bricks, rocks, and cement, larger cracks can develop. The entire chimney could collapse, if the damaged mortar isn’t repaired.

4-Shaling

If you start to see thin slices of chimney tile collecting in the fireplace, it’s a good indication that the flue is damaged. The flue lining is essential to the safe operation of a fireplace and chimney. Because of this fact, an annual chimney inspection is important. Professional chimney sweeps can closely analyze your flue lining and spot problems that would otherwise go undetected. For example, if the tiles are cracked but not crumbling, you probably won’t see visible signs of a breach in the chimney system.

5-Spalling

Spalling is an issue which occurs to the outside of the chimney and can be detected because you see bits of masonry around the bottom of the structure. When moisture enters masonry, it can force the surface of the brick, concrete, or stone to peel off, pop out, or flake off. It’s essential to replace damaged masonry to prevent continued crumbling and eventual destruction of the chimney.

6-Damaged Wallpaper

Wallpaper on the walls near your chimney can provide another visible sign of chimney damage. If the wallpaper is damaged, it is usually a result of moisture in the chimney. Repairs to the chimney or flue should be made as needed, before continuing the use of the fireplace.

7-Chimney Crown Damage

As with damaged mortar joints, it will be necessary to go on your roof to spot damage to the chimney crown. The crown is an important part of the chimney structure, providing a first line of defense against harsh weather conditions. If the crown is cracked, moisture could seep in and create larger cracks. A damaged crown means that water can seep between the chimney and the flue lining, which could cause spalling and shaling. The best defense against this type of damage is to weatherproof the chimney crown.

If you notice any of these signs of chimney damage, or to schedule your annual spring/summer chimney cleaning and inspection, call our professionals at Chimney Quest today! Having your chimney cleaned and inspected now ensures plenty of time to take care of chimney repair or upgrades that may be necessary before the chill of fall sets in! Call Chimney Quest today at 615-292-7411.

Common Spring Chimney Issues

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Mon, 11 May 2015 05:08:01 GMT

Common Spring Chimney Issues

Seemed like the rain was never going to stop. Phew! It’s good to see the sun again. But before we forget the recent barrage of spring storms (with plenty more to come), it’s a good idea to consider the health of one of our most frequently overlooked home maintenance items: the chimney.

The chimney performs several vital functions. A chimney deteriorated by constant exposure can be a potential safety hazard — such as direct contact with water and water penetration. Water is often introduced to a chimney from other areas of the home. You would probably notice interior leaks during those rainy days. What you might not notice is pooling water on the tops of your chimney cap. Damaged gutters, overflowing gutters, downspouts dumping water near or on the chimney, and even gutters that are not sloped away from the chimney, can also introduce water to your chimney in damaging ways.

Results of misdirected water in your chimney:

Deteriorated metal or masonry firebox assemblies
Rusted damper assemblies
Rusted fireplace accessories and glass doors
Rotting adjacent wood and ruined wall coverings
Water-stained walls and ceiling
Deteriorated central heating system
Stained chimney exterior
Decayed exterior mortar
Cracked or deteriorated flue lining system
Tilted or collapsed chimney structure
Foul chimney odor & smoke. (from water mixing with creosote)

The Diagnosis and Solutions:

The Flashing

Many leaks are flashing related due to poor initial application. Proper chimney flashing has two parts: The step flashing, and the counter flashing. The best practice is to cut a groove into the chimney at the top of the flashing and tuck and seal the metal into the structure.

The Cricket

A chimney cricket defers the water around the chimney instead of letting it pool at the rear of the chimney. It is a common building code that chimneys more than 30 inches wide need a cricket;

Chimney Sweeps often find that the cricket isn’t there or find that the cricket is improperly installed. Sometimes there is a cricket on one side when there should be a corner cricket.

Spalling

We all see a lot of flaking chimneys in the area. Spalling is due to water absorption into the masonry. Brick are like sponge. They soak up all the moisture, when the water freezes it pops the faces of the brick off. The back-and-forth of cold-warm (freeze/thaw) is a big issue in climates such as Indianapolis.

The Flue

Most furnace flues have had moisture condensing in them for years. Furnace or boiler flue leakage can cause water problems. This leads to moisture stains on the chimney and in the home. A good solution is to apply professional grade moisture protection to masonry structures. This will definitely help prolong the life of these structures. Professional grade products allow the structure to breath, but do not allow water to enter.

The Crown

Most are cracked and are made of sand and mortar. Few have proper bond breaks. Usually, you have 2 options. If the crown seems solid and is just cracked, not falling apart, we can apply a flexible mastic. If it is not solid, falling apart, or laid on plywood or wood shingles, it should be torn off and replaced. It should be poured in a form, 4 inches thick, with a bond break and a drip edge — kind of like a soffit on a house.

The Cap

Some, made of plain steel or galvanized metal are rusting and hard to remove. Just like our rusting flashing, common chimney caps made from galvanized metal and rust in a matter of years. This can cause rust stains on the chimney. Caps keep out rain, animals, leaves and debris. Stainless steel caps won’t rust. The best chimney caps are large stainless steel multiflue caps that are custom made and completely cover the chimney top.

The Chase Cover

Instead of a masonry crown, a prefabricated chimney has a sheet metal top called the “chase cover.” Many of these covers are field fabricated and perform poorly. They are prone to water leakage, water pooling and rust. Water can show up at ceiling lines, in the firebox, and behind the louvers of the prefabricated fireplace. If customers hear water dripping when it rains it is not uncommon that the storm collar has failed. As with all vents the storm collar needs to be a proper size and sealed to shed water away from the pipe.

Inside the home: The Masonry Firebox

We need to be looking for signs of water entry. Water streaks, loose brick, or damaged firebrick can all be caused by water entry. Often the area will smell musty and damp. This is also a good time to check for more evidence of settlement. Look for separation between the profile and the firebox. This usually indicates settling of the chimney or hearth. When you are checking any factory built fireplaces, make sure you take a moment to look for rust on any surface. Also, try looking through the air circulating grills for water stains or rust; you may be surprised at what you find.

If you are experiencing any of these issues with your chimney, contact Chimney Quest today to have our skilled chimney technicians provide Nashville chimney cleaning and inspection . If you need chimney repair or upgrades , we can help with that also. To schedule your appointment, call Chimney Quest at 615-292-7411. We look forward to hearing from you!

Chimney Fires: 100% PREVENTABLE!

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Thu, 23 Apr 2015 05:07:19 GMT

Chimney Fires: 100% Preventable

Chimney fires. Almost sounds like an oxymoron, right? The truth is that chimney fires are a very real danger that all homeowners need to be educated about.

There’s nothing like a warm, crackling fireplace to relax and snuggle in front of after a long day. It’s a comforting feeling that helps us unwind and take our mind off of the demands of the day. But if you’re basking before the rosy glow of a fireplace with an unsafe chimney, that feeling could be dangerously fleeting with the ignition of an explosive chimney fire.

Chimney fires tend to announce their intentions with a low rumbling sound like a freight train or a low flying airplane. They generally create a lot of dense smoke, an intense, hot smell, often burn explosively, and are noisy and dramatic enough to be detected by neighbors or people passing by. Flames or dense smoke may shoot from the top of the chimney. Nearby combustible items may become themselves engulfed in flame as the hot, explosive fire continues to burn.

Sounds pretty dangerous, doesn’t it? Well, what if we told you that a chimney fire can occur without anyone being aware of it? Slow-burning chimney fires don’t get enough air or have enough fuel to be dramatically visible. But, the temperatures they reach are very high and can cause as much damage to the chimney structure – and nearby combustible items, as visible chimney fires.

A chimney damaged by fire can seriously endanger a home and its occupants. A healthy chimney performs a very important function, carrying dangerous flue gases safely out of your home. So how do you know if your chimney’s safe structure and proper functionality has been jeopardized by a chimney fire? The answer is simple: have your chimney regularly inspected by Chimney Quest.

Here’s what you need to know: Chimney fires are 100% preventable. Clean chimneys don’t catch fire. That’s why it’s important to have your chimney cleaned professionally once a year. During this process, Chimney Quest will fully inspect your chimney to ensure that it is safe and efficient. The firebox, damper, smoke chamber, liner, concrete crown and outside of chimney a just a few of the areas that need inspection. We can also help with an inspection when selling your home.

Chimney Quest has been the Middle Tennessee leader in professional chimney care services since 1945. Contact Chimney Quest today to have our skilled chimney technicians provide Nashville chimney cleaning and inspection. If you need chimney repair or upgrades, we can help with that also. To schedule your appointment, call Chimney Quest at 615-292-7411.

Sell Your Home With A Chimney Sweep!

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Mon, 13 Apr 2015 05:06:24 GMT

Sell Your Home With A Chimney Sweep!

When you’re preparing to put your house on the market, it’s sometimes easy to overlook one of the most crucial factors in home safety today: the chimney.

Everyone knows a beautiful fireplace is very attractive to today’s home buyers. Adding a fireplace, or upgrading the appearance of an existing fireplace, is a common strategy to increase perceived value and push your final sell price to the max.

It’s even more important to examine the inside of your fireplace or chimney when preparing for market. Any “combustion appliance”, like a furnace, woodstove, or fireplace (as well as venting systems) should have a thorough inspection prior to listing. A chimney that is not working properly can be a serious and even deadly hazard. That’s one reason home inspectors require that a home be inspected and cleaned by a professional chimney sweep in preparation for sale. Your chimney’s condition could become a factor in the sale of your home, particularly if repairs are needed.

A surprising number of chimneys and fireplaces do not meet safety or even building code standards. This is due to a number of unfortunate factors, like weather deterioration, regular usage, and improper initial installation. Typical issues include inadequate distances between hot surfaces and combustible materials within the structure, the lack of an appropriate chimney liner, or an improperly connected or wrong size liner. We can help! Contact the chimney sweep professionals at Chimney Quest for all of your pre-sale inspection, cleaning and repair needs.

Services We Provide

Chimney Cleaning
Chimney Relining
Complete Chimney care
Build Chimneys from the ground up
Masonry Repairs including new block, brick, or stone walls
Home Waterproofing, Basement Waterproofing, Crawl Spaces and Home Exteriors

Contact Chimney Quest today to have our skilled chimney technicians provide Nashville chimney cleaning and inspection . If you need chimney repair or upgrades , we can help with that also. To schedule your appointment, call Chimney Quest at 615-292-7411.

Chimney Repair in Nashville, Franklin and surrounding area’s

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Thu, 19 Feb 2015 05:05:28 GMT

Chimney Repair in Nashville, Franklin and Surrounding Areas

Good chimney as well as fireplace routine maintenance is a good idea and job that is missing to a lot of property owners. In spite of a lot of old-timers and other people making the statement that, “I’ve already been burning wood as well as utilizing the identical chimney more than 15 years with no complications…” is almost all properly and high-quality, nevertheless, the homeowner has to understand that it is their very own residence which is in danger and no one else’s property. There are many various development types of chimney, flue and stove products found all the state.

Whilst cleaning the majority of chimneys makes use of comparable techniques, chimney sweeping is not the merely aspect of chimney upkeep necessary for a secure residence. Conventional brick residence construction failed to always incorporate a chimney liner years ago. With time a lot of building codes are actually amended to improve design techniques together with security. No matter the kind of heating system supply used or even whether the chimney possesses a liner installed, chimney inspections are mandatory in addition to capturing in order to stop the risk of a chimney fire.

After some time and a residence ages mortar environment bricks or stones will degrade because of the severe interior problems with which a chimney is subjected. This also makes sense which should a property user have a open fire in a stove or even fireplace, the climate outside is quite chilly. With the mortar along with the brick or even stonework enlarging and getting every year because of regular climate changes and precipitation, it is no surprise that the mortar will start to become brittle as well as rip apart away. Since the temperature of the flue gases start to cool since they rise, creosote are going to form on the surfaces of the chimney flue because of condensation.

Crumbling mortar is an issue in itself, however can often be increased by the creation of creosote, that is very flammable, on the inside surfaces of the chimney flue. The reason for frequently routine chimney inspections is to stop an expensive as well as dangerous situation from occurring.

Reconstructing current chimneys is not an inexpensive investment. It will be a lot more cost effective to set up a chimney flue liner before the brickwork starts to weaken. Not merely can chimney liners decrease the volume of creosote debris thus enhancing security, and can additionally permit greater relieve in washing while it gets to be required. Numerous neighborhood friends might shrug off a chimney examination or washing driven by the past good results of the insufficient a chimney fire, however it is a reasonable and serious game of chance a property owner is going to be taking by not employing an experienced chimney sweep business to inspect as well as clean the chimney.

Contact Chimney Quest today to have our skilled chimney technicians provide Nashville chimney cleaning and inspection. If you need chimney repair or upgrades, we can help with that also. To schedule your appointment, call Chimney Quest at 615-292-7411.

Tips for choosing the correct brush to clean your chimney: types of chimney brushes

maryn@viewsdigitalmarketing.com (Maryn Williams) — Thu, 19 Feb 2015 04:58:42 GMT

Tips for Choosing The Correct Brush to Clean Your Chimney: Types of Chimney Brushes

Many individuals who have fireplaces can advise you that there is a good amount of work needed for keeping everything in top shape and working properly. It is essential to clean the chimney as well as the fireplace at the end of the season if you want to ensure optimal functioning and safety. This is an important step. To skip it could mean dangerous fumes going into your home and possibly even fires or explosions.

For most of the people, selecting a technician makes the most sense. Pros have all the tools needed to clean your chimney and are very well-trained in spotting potential problem areas. However, if you are the do-it-yourself type, it’s also something you can do on your own to save a bit of money. While you should still spring for an inspection from time to time, it’s possible to take care of the cleaning yourself.

The most significant aspect of an effective chimney cleaning is having the right tools,. The brush is arguably the most crucial of all. Get it right and you can clean your chimney like an expert. Get it wrong and it will either have no effect whatsoever or worse, cause damage.

Right before you even begin shopping for the right brush, you need take a good look inside the chimney. Get your measuring tape ready as well. If you have been good ab out cleaning every year, your job is going to be a lot easier than if you have neglected maintenance for several years in a row. A regular brush is suitable for all but the most extreme cases of buildup, in which case a flat one is preferred.

In case that the buildup is really out of control, you may want to hire an expert for a deep cleaning just this once to hive you a clean slate. Pay attention to how they do it and then take care of it yourself in the future following the procedure in order to save some money and avoid a yearly expense. While they are cleaning they can also tell you if they notice any holes, leaks, or other dangers lurking inside. This is an expense that is really worth it because you don’t want to end up with toxic gases in your home, structural damage, or even worse, a house fire.

The right brush for the job will match the shape of your liner. For example, if you liner is circular then you need to choose a round brush that is the same size. Square or rectangular brushes should be slightly larger than the inside measurement of the liner.

Due to the fact chimney liners are so variable, chimney seep brushes are available in many shapes and sizes so you can find one that is appropriate. By cleaning your chimney liner regularly, you can avoid a lot of the potential problems that can arise with a fireplace such as house fires and gs leaks.

But remember when cleaning it your self be safe!

We hope that our tips of types of chimney brushes and choosing the right brush will help you when choosing your chimney maintenance and remember to give Chimney Quest a call at 615-292-7411 with any questions!

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