Hudson Valley Chimney Sweeps Blog

Many homeowners are surprised to discover that when it’s raining outside, it is also raining inside their chimney. As the cold and icy weather blanketed the Hudson River Valley region in the winter thaws into the warmer and colorful spring season, years of exposure to harsh winter weather became evident when spring showers sprout chimney […]

If you want to keep the warm hearth fires burning in the winter, it’s important to tend to ongoing fireplace and chimney care. Chimneys are subject to damage caused by harsh winter weather. Protecting chimneys against moisture intrusion is a year-round job, but the most destructive effects of moisture in masonry occur in wintry weather. […]

It was Roman philosopher Gaius Plinius Secundus who said that “home is where the heart is.” It was a phrase that was uttered over 2,000 years and still rings true today. It was also when families would gather around the hearth of a wood-burning fireplace to stay warm. Having a fireplace in virtually every living […]

Chimneys and fireplaces have a lot of terminology that can get confusing. Today, we want to talk about the difference between the fireplace damper and the chimney flue. The two are somewhat connected and work together, but there are some important differences. What is a damper? Dampers are present on most chimney/fireplace systems. They sit […]

Any family with kids at home knows that they are attached to the hip with their smartphones, iPads, or other technological wizardry. Turning off the technology is a constant struggle in many homes. It’s essential for kids (and parents too!) to power down and recharge while spending quality time together. Sometimes it can be challenging […]

Winter in New York isn’t the best time to be doing any type of home maintenance. Fortunately, professional chimney services companies work year-round. If you have a problem with a leaky chimney, arrange a visit from an experienced chimney technician, who will follow a logical path in addressing and solving the leak. 1. Where is […]

A fireplace is a delightful amenity, especially during winters here in the Hudson Valley. It can be a hazard if you don’t keep up with your chimney maintenance. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends an annual chimney inspection and cleaning to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and a chimney fire. Following their recommendation can […]

A fireplace is a sought-after amenity for many renters and can help a house or apartment rent faster. But fireplaces can be as dangerous as they are enjoyable. If you’re a landlord or property manager, here are some things to consider before allowing tenants to use a fireplace. Insurance costs You’re probably going to pay […]

You can find a wide range of DIY guides for fireplace and stove installation that make the process look deceptively easy. Nothing is as simple as it seems on the internet. Fireplaces and stoves have specific installation requirements that vary from model to model. You could easily make a mistake that could jeopardize your home’s […]

If you ask a fire safety expert or chimney sweep how often your chimney should be cleaned and inspected, you will get the same answer: every 12 months. You will get more than peace of mind when you schedule regular cleanings and inspections. Routine chimney inspections and maintenance will keep your home safe and fireplace […]