Before you ignite the spark, there are a few steps you need to take to ensure that your fireplace is up and running in time for winter:
Sweep the chimney
The National Fire Protection Association recommends you hire a chimney sweep to clean at least once a year just before the start of winter. This will remove soot and debris so that your fireplace can work efficiently for another long winter.
Check for damage
In addition to a chimney sweep, a professional should also inspect the chimney structure for loose bricks, cracks, and missing mortar.
Cap it off
A cap fitted with wire-mesh sides will cover the top of the chimney, keeping birds, squirrels, and rain out. If the cap is damaged or missing, it needs to be replaced or repaired.
Stock up
Stock up on dense wood, like oak, that has been split and stored in a very dry place for a minimum of six months. Softwoods like pine produce more creosote, a flammable by-product of combustion that can build up in your chimney.
At Blue Mountain Plumbing Heating & Cooling, we are dedicated to helping you keep your home warm all winter long. We proudly serve Harrisonburg, Waynesboro, and Staunton, Virginia. Call 540-942-2700 for all of your plumbing needs.
