Hudson Valley Chimney Sweeps Blog

Chimneys are built to perform for decades, but stormy weather and extreme temperature swings can cause damage, that if ignored, can cause the entire structure to fail. Annual inspections, maintenance, and occasional repairs will help ensure your chimney is safe and sound. Since a failing chimney can also cause structural damage to your roof and […]

Many children and animals are injured each year because they’re allowed to play too close to an open fireplace. Many of these instances could be prevented by following a few simple fireplace safety tips. Here are some ideas to keep your children and pets safe around a roaring fire. Set boundaries Fireplace fires don’t go […]

Do you know about the risk of pyrolysis? A fire at the home of Carolina Panthers’ coach Ron Rivera made national news in 2015. It is the most high-profile example of the dangers of pyrolysis. An improperly installed fireplace, that caused pyrolysis, was the culprit for this costly fire. Your home may be at risk too! If […]

The essential home feature during the winter is the chimney. While you’re firing up your fireplace or heating stove to keep your loved ones warm, this stately structure is expelling smoke, soot, and other dangerous gases. But just because it appears to be functioning normally doesn’t mean that it does not require repair. Old Man […]

While all types of fireplaces and related home-heating equipment serve the purposes of warmth and décor-enhancement, not all of these units are the same when it comes to safety and maintenance. Here are a few tips on taking care of traditional fireplaces, zero-clearance fireplaces, fireplace inserts and gas log sets. Masonry fireplace  Traditional, open fireplaces […]

In most northern cities throughout the U.S., one thing we can count on is a cold winter, which is all it takes to get most of us to crank up our fireplaces and add a little comfort to the season. To keep you, your family and your home safe, here are some important preparation steps […]

The dancing flames of a glowing fireplace not only create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your family, but your furry friends, too. Unlike us humans who understand the dangers of fire, pets don’t.  And the sights, sounds, and smell of a fire can attract their natural curiosity. They may even try to play with […]

When you’re getting ready to fire up your gas fireplace or insert for another season, there are a few things you need to know to make the upcoming months safe and enjoyable. Give it a good cleaning Gas fireplaces and gas inserts perform best when they’re clean. Fortunately, cleaning gas appliances is a lot easier […]

Nothing beats a roaring fireplace on a cold winter’s night. You can keep these positive experiences happening by making sure you’re burning your wood safely and correctly and allowing your fireplace to run at max efficiency. Here are some tips. proper drafting  For fire to burn, fuel, heat and oxygen are required. You’ve got the […]

Fall is a beautiful time of year in the Hudson Valley. The dazzling colors of fall foliage on display will tickle your senses.  But the warm days and crisp evenings during this time of year is also a gentle reminder that colder weather is on the way. After all, fall is not only your last […]