VIEW FROM THE ROOF: Spring is a great time to check chimney

By Jeff St. Cyr
Dirty Bristles Chimney Sweep

It has been SO cold this winter season. Dirty Bristles Chimney Sweep Inc. has serviced many blocked chimneys this year.
Colder temperatures mean colder chimneys and colder chimneys mean creosote buildup. More creosote buildup means more blockages which can lead to chimney fires.

In the spring, after your burning season is over, it’s the perfect time for cleanings and inspections to make sure that no damage has been done while burning.
A stainless-steel liner can help keep chimney flues warmer which in turn leads to less buildup within the flue system. Burning seasoned firewood at a hot temperature also helps to keep the flue clear of obstruction. True “seasoned” firewood should have sat one year before burning. We see spring/summer wood being delivered to be burned that fall/winter. Average dry time for northeast mixed hardwoods is 12 months minimum — cut, split and stacked.
Humidity in summer can make your fireplace and chimney smelly. A clean chimney is less offensive to your nose on hot summer days.
Pellet and gas stoves should also be serviced during the spring as soon as your heating needs are over. If parts are needed or if there are venting concerns, these can be dealt with in a timely manner, rather than waiting until the heating season begins again, causing you to possibly be without a heat source.
Pellets should be removed from hoppers as moisture and dampness during the summer months can cause moisture retention issues and rusting inside your stove leading to more costly service issues during the heating season.
Spring is also a great time to install new units to be up and ready for the next heating season.

Jeff St. Cyr is owner of Dirty Bristles in Bridgeton. For more information, visit www.dirtybristles.com.