Hudson Valley Chimney Sweeps Blog

While last winter was relatively mild, The Old Farmer’s Almanac is predicting summer to be hot as usual here in the Hudson Valley, NY and Western Connecticut region. And warm and humid weather makes conditions ripe for frequent thunderstorms and rainy weather. Also, the Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response recommends homeowners be prepared for […]

When most people think about fireplaces, the ambiance of an authentic wood-burning fire comes to mind. And while traditional masonry fireplaces produce burning flames, they are not very efficient for home heating. That’s because 90% of the heat that is produced escapes through the chimney, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Also, the combustion […]

Depending on where your home is located, you may see the occasional small insect or bug hanging around indoors. But if you’re noticing a lot more of them than usual – and if you operate a wood fireplace or stove – your firewood may be to blame. A variety of pests like to be on, […]

Relaxing around a warm and inviting outdoor fireplace is an exciting way to entertain family and friends in the evening. But, as attractive as outdoor fireplaces and firepits are, it’s important to follow responsible safety practices to prevent a fire or injuries. Here are five safety tips you should keep in mind when operating an […]

If you have a chimney and hear chirping in your home, you’re probably not going crazy. You may actually be playing host to family of chimney swifts, a small, migratory bird named for its penchant for using chimneys as nesting grounds. Birds in your chimney might be a problem, or they might not, depending on […]

When the burning season is winding down, it’s a good time to think about sprucing up your chimney for the spring and summer. A lot has happened with your chimney during the winter, so use the lengthening days of springtime to have your system thoroughly checked out. Spring cleaning tasks for chimneys If your fireplace […]

There is nothing cozier on a winter evening than relaxing in front of a fireplace. The scent of the burning wood, the crackling sounds, and the warmth of the hearth offer luxurious comfort on chilly days. But, if your chimney has maintenance issues, there is an increasing risk of a house fire, exposure to toxic […]

Spring showers may bring beautiful flowers, but they can also cause chimney leaks. Chimney leaks are common problem and one of the top reasons that homeowners call on a chimney experts or handyman. When water gets in your chimney, it can result in expensive damage. It can deteriorate masonry, ruin drywall, rot structural beams and […]

All questions regarding homeowner’s insurance policies are best answered by the provider who wrote the policy. That being said, there are some general guidelines when it comes to determining if the provider will cover water damage caused by a leaky chimney. A homeowner’s insurance policy covers unexpected damage to various areas of your home or […]

The chimney crown is like an umbrella for the chimney. It is designed to help disperse rainwater from the chimney to protect the masonry. But even well-built crowns will deteriorate due to age and its direct exposure to changing weather conditions. Cracks may develop slowly and without realizing it, the crown is compromised. And when the crown is compromised water can penetrate inside the flue. This […]