Hudson Valley Chimney Sweeps Blog

As with any structure or component within your home, chimneys need periodic service, maintenance and repair to keep them safe and operating correctly. Here are four common interior and exterior issues with chimneys and how they should be addressed. Damaged masonry A chimney is safe only when its bricks are in good shape. When the […]

The chimney is a vital safety system. It contains the burning flames in your fireplace and prevents toxic fumes from polluting your indoor air. And with the accumulation of dirt, creosote, and other stains, the chimney interior is a dark and grimy chamber. It requires an annual inspection and cleaning to continue keeping your home […]

During the summer, most people don’t give a second thought to their fireplaces and chimneys. But the truth is, this is the best time to think about getting your heating system ready for regular use during the winter. Here are eight preparation tips you’ll find helpful. 1. Hire a chimney sweep The last thing you want is to fire up your fireplace […]

During the summer, most homeowners rarely use the fireplace. The chimney is a distant memory as many families take vacations, enjoy backyard barbeques, or spend the weekend enjoying the great outdoors. But many homeowners don’t realize the importance of closing the damper and unwittingly leave it open during the summer. What is a damper, and […]

Whether you are building a new home or remodeling an existing residence, the type of heating appliance you are planning to install will help determine the type of chimney that you should use. Not all chimneys have the same engineering or heat resistance capability. Some chimneys are more expensive to maintain while others are less […]

Do you have soot stains inside your home? Because of the gradual way soot attaches itself to surfaces, you may have the beginning of a soot issue and not even know it. Fireplaces, heating stoves, furnaces and candles all can be responsible for depositing soot on walls and other surfaces near these items. Because fireplaces, […]

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 […]