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Winter Chimney Risks

Is there anything cozier than sitting by a warm, crackling fireplace on a cold Hoosier night? Of course, like any part of our house, fireplaces need ongoing maintenance to ensure they function properly. Here are four winter chimney risks you need to be aware of if it’s been a while since you last had yours inspected.

chimney masonry damage, brownsburg inWater damage from repeated freeze-thaw cycles

Indiana winters can be unpredictable. One week we’re dealing with two feet of snow on the ground while the next week we’re all wearing shorts. This constant freeze-thaw cycle can lead to water damage by penetrating the porous materials that make up your chimney. As water seeps into these tiny holes, it then expands during a freeze cycle. Then, when it thaws, you now have larger holes — allowing more water in. With each freeze-thaw cycle, this chimney damage increases.

Debris, leaves, and twigs creating blockages

If you’re missing a chimney cap or have a broken one, it’s easy for debris to make its way into your fireplace. With winter wind speeds that can be especially intense, everything from trash to dead leaves to smaller twigs and branches can make their way into your chimney if it’s not properly protected.

The risk here is for a blockage that can lead to either a fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Of course, both are serious concerns only made worse by other potential problems with your chimney. A properly installed chimney cap can help alleviate this concern.

Loose or leaking flashing

Loose or leaking flashing is another one of our four winter chimney risks you should be on the lookout for. Signs that you may have an issue with your flashing are dark spots on your ceiling near the fireplace, a damp interior of the chimney, or signs of mildew on the walls nearby. Eventually, the entire structure of your chimney could collapse if not properly repaired — or worse yet, mold can start growing in areas that can’t dry out properly leading to health concerns within your household.

clean nest in chimney, noblesville inAnimal nesting concerns

Everyone likes to be warm. Birds specifically, but other animals as well, will typically try to build a shelter on top of your fireplace. After all, the rising heat escaping gives them warmth on cold winter days, enticing them to take up residence.

Of course, this can also lead to blockages and potential fire risks. In addition, smaller animals can fall into the chimney. Both impact air flow and can eventually lead to a failure within the flue system as well as carbon monoxide backup in your home.

We can help fix each of these winter chimney risks

As the area experts in everything from chimney inspections to installations, we’re here to help. Our team of experts can diagnose and repair any chimney system or fireplace problems. Before you put the first log in for the season, be sure to contact us right away. We’ll schedule your inspection and let you know if there are any problems that need to be fixed before winter gets here.

Our Service Area
If you live within 20 miles of Marion County, there’s no need to call any other chimney provider! The team here at Chimney Solutions Indiana will be in our marked trucks and clean uniforms and at your door on time! We travel to Zionsville, Carmel, Fishers, Brownsburg, Westfield, Geist, Eagle Creek, Noblesville and all throughout the Indianapolis, IN area.

Our Training & Memberships Keep Us Informed & Knowledgeable

We believe that education and ongoing training is important, which is why we continuously invest in ourselves and our team to deliver better service to you. We’re Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) – certified and members of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG), so whenever advancements are made within the industry, we’re among the first to know about it. When you work with Chimney Solutions, you can expect the latest information and the most advanced services and techniques. We strive to exceed expectations on every job from a routine chimney sweep and chimney cleaning to a full chimney restoration.

Call Chimney Solutions For The Best Possible Chimney Care!
Call Now (317) 757-6979

If you’re ready to speak with a knowledgeable and friendly team member or would like to request an appointment with one of our experienced technicians, give us a call.

We’re committed to providing the best service possible and look forward to serving you and your family, year after year. Call 317-757-6979 to get started! >>