Is There Something Spooky Lurking In Your Chimney?

Under normal conditions, a chimney isn’t going to make much noise on its own. If you hear sounds coming from your chimney, then it’s something that needs a closer look. The problem may be minor, but it could also be major, so don’t ignore it.

Hudson Valley Chimney of Poughkeepsie, NY, would like to share some helpful insight about what can cause chimney sounds and what you can do about them.

Wind moving through the chimney

Chimneys and fireplaces are built to allow air to move through them and create a draft. But a lot of wind sailing down the chimney can cause whooshing and whistling noises that may be annoying. Wind can also blow soot and ash into your room.

If your chimney has no chimney cap, have one installed. Chimney caps block most of the wind that can move into the chimney flue. Also, remember to keep your fireplace damper closed when you’re not using your fireplace to reduce the draft.

Small animal noises

Depending on where you live, your chimney may be the target of a variety of small animals. Birds, racoons, rodents, squirrels and others like to use chimneys as shelter from the elements. Some build nests and birth their babies inside chimneys.

As with wind, a sturdy chimney cap is the best solution to keep animals out of your chimney. It’s important to note that excess nesting materials can narrow the chimney flue and cause smoke and deadly carbon monoxide to back up and enter your home. Schedule chimney sweeping to remove nests.

Sounds from the chimney itself

You may hear faint popping or cracking noises coming from the chimney. Several things can cause these sounds, including bricks that are decaying and falling apart; expanding creosote; clay tile chimney liners crumbling or splitting; and metal chimney components reacting to temperature changes.

If you hear any of these vague sounds, it’s a good idea to schedule a chimney inspection to find out exactly what’s causing them. Often, chimney problems happen in bunches, so an issue in one area of the structure may have led to issues in other areas. A trained chimney inspector will be able to identify all the problems and resolve them correctly.

The sounds of a chimney fire

Chimney fires, both large and small, often make noises that you can hear if you know what to listen for. Common noises are tapping or clicking sounds and a deep rumble that reminds you of a train off in the distance.

During a chimney fire, you might also notice excess dense smoke coming from one end or both ends of the chimney. You might also detect a burning, sooty odor.

If you suspect a chimney fire, call 911 and get people and pets out of the house. After emergency personnel clear the scene, schedule a chimney inspection before you fire up your fireplace again.

Good chimney maintenance is the key

The best chimney maintenance involves annual chimney sweeping to remove flammable creosote and draft-blocking debris.

In addition, a licensed chimney inspection performed once a year can alert you to trouble you may not have noticed so you can have it resolved with minimal hassle and expense.

 

Hudson Valley Chimney serves Poughkeepsie, NY, and surrounding communities with professional chimney sweeping, chimney inspections and all types of chimney repair and rebuilding work. We’re here to keep your chimney safe and strong. Call us today, or get in touch through our contact form.