Chimney Sweep News

Chimney Sweep Festivities in England

2012-05-13T11:08:00.000-07:00

Your Chimney Sweep

In Rochester, England, real life chimney sweeps have about as much fun as they do in Mary Poppins! Part of the traditions with the chimney sweep profession include a celebration that takes place once a year and goes on for 3 days straight.

Hundreds of years ago when chimneys were cleaned by young boys, the profession had one day off each year! This was on May 1st. To celebrate, the boys ran through the streets singing and dancing with excitement. Today, the celebration continues in a very similar fashion. The modern day festival which will mark its 32nd year in 2012 reenacts this tradition with more and more extravagance every year. Think Mardi Gras, Chimney Sweep Style.
In May of each year, over the national bank holiday, a huge festival for chimney sweeps in Rochester, England called the Rochester Sweeps Festival takes place. This year the festival will be held from Saturday, May 5th through Monday, May 7th, 2012. The festival has many attractions ranging from traditional folk music, elaborate dancing, parades, group performances and other festive entertainment.
One of the most important parts of this holiday tradition is the awakening of the Jack-in-the-Green during the festival. The Jack-in-the-Green is a 7 foot tall leafy man that starts the parade celebrations each year alongside traditional Morris dancers and the chimney sweeps. The concept came about from the elaborate costumes people used to wear during the May festival to celebrate the coming of spring. People used to dress up by layering strands of flowers and leaves all over themselves. Some people got so into the leafy costumes that they began to take on the form of a tree rather than a person. This look later became recognized as the Jack-in-the-Green at every May Festival. Now the Jack-in-the-Green has a prominent role in the Rochester Sweeps Festival.

A few songs have been written about the Jack-in-the-Green, including a track by the same name by Magpie Lane that is written in the traditional style of folk music and projects the spirit of the festivities.

The Morris dancers that take part in the parades at the festivals are traditional English folk dancers. Each group of these dancers consist of about 6-10 people dressed up in various costumes. The costumes vary greatly depending on where each group is from. Some Morris dancers wear tattered clothing and paint their faces black, while others dress up in lively colors with detailed belts. Traditional Morris dancing is performed on specific holidays, such as May Day, Whitsunday, and Christmas.
After all of the excitement during the day with the parades and dances, the festivities continue at night in the many local pubs where local beer flows and local bands play all night for the lively audience. This is a weekend filled with tradition and new things to see so it brings in a lot of tourism to the various businesses throughout town. Somehow we thought that these sweeps might end the day in the pub!
Even though the date carries much of the tradition of the festival, and the current level of tourism is already very high, this year there is controversy surrounding the May Day holiday. The English Parliament is thinking about moving the festivities to October or April to extend the tourism season and ultimately make the holiday more profitable for participating businesses. The proposal came from the Department of Culture, Media and Sport’s (DCMS) tourism who believes that the change in date will have a dramatic increase in tourism to the area. Already 3,000 people have signed a petition against this proposal, and a decision has not yet been reached.
This festival is a great way to celebrate the tradition and history of the chimney sweep profession. Tourists literally come from all over the world to be part of the excitement of the festival, celebrate the coming of Spring and of course, for the good luck kisses from all of the local sweeps and Morris men.

Who knows maybe one of these years North Carolina Chimney Sweeps Association will throw our own festival!

1. SERVICES AVAILABLE: CHIMNEY SWEEP

2012-05-08T17:44:00.000-07:00

Lady Gaga claims she spends hours coordinating her attire?

Or hours coordinating her face to go with her ridiculous outfits? This outfit looks like she spent the afternoon cleaning mychimney. On her way out of my chimney apparently her pants got snagged on a brick and ripped off. I don’t exactly know how to explain her bra being on the outside of her clothes. Is this girl for real? The cotton ball for hair and mask of black lace make this coordinated outfit just that more ridiculous. Can you believe she wore this to the Ace Awards?

Amber D. is living with a young Chimney Sweep

2012-05-01T02:46:00.000-07:00

living with a chimney sweep

It started out innocently enough last Thursday. He wanted to be a chimney sweep. Not just any chimney sweep. He was very specific. He wanted to be "Dick Van Dyke acting the part of Burt, the chimney sweep" from Mary Poppins. Okay then.

The next day was the same. As was the next. He played with his little brother but "as a chimney sweep" only. We went out to a restaurant. We went to a few stores. We went about our normal business except that for the last six days I have had a chimney sweep for a son. Soot and all.

On all these outings, only one person questioned us while we were in line at a kid's clothing store exchanging something. A woman in line next to us nearly collapsed from concern and asked me, "Did he fall down? What are all the bruises on his face from?" I swear she was reaching for her cell phone, ready to call Child Protective Services. "Uh, what?" I'm so completely used to life with a chimney sweep that I was confused and actually looked at my other(clean as a whistle) child first, thinking he probably did have a bruise or two from falling down. Then finally I explain, "Oh, he is dressed up like a chimney sweep. That is soot." The woman laughs with relief.
The best part of living with a chimney sweep though is...

That sometimes just looking at him makes me laugh so hard that I can't even take proper photos and half of my photos wind up like this one below:

But that is okay because he is too busy laughing too.

And laughing...

And laughing...

He makes a mean batch of molasses cookies, which we now have dubbed "Soot Cookies" forever.

We're going on day SIX today and we are even going on a vacation soon. Will the chimney sweep be joining us? I wonder how long this will last. It sure has been fun.

Do you let your kids dress up and go places? What was the wildest outfit that was paraded in public?

Chimney sweep likely prevents house fire in Kansas City

2012-04-30T15:38:00.002-07:00

Wood framing inside chimney

On January 19, 2010 local chimney sweep Gene Padgitt found something odd while getting ready to install a woodburning insert in a 1920's Kansas City, Missouri home. Something that would likely have caused a house fire. The original builder of the home constructed an unlined chimney (a chimney without a clay tile flue liner) and put structural wood members inside the flue.

After Padgitt saw the wood inside the chimney he told the homeowner he had to open up the brick chimney in the attic area to remove the combustibles. There, he found double 2 x 4's on one side and a header on the other side inside the chimney with brick built underneath and on top of the wood. Some of the wood had already been burned away by previous fires unknown to the homeowner, which probably smoldered but did not ignite due to lack of oxygen.

“We see crazy things like this more often than most people realize,” said Padgitt, who is also a State Certified Fire Investigator. “People don't think about the inside of their chimney, and unless a professional chimney sweep inspects it, there is no way of knowing what the condition is. In this case, the house had been standing for 90 years without burning down, but the hazard was there and eventually would have been a serious problem.

Wood chemically changes when exposed to heat over a period of time, allowing it to ignite at a much lower temperature than normal without direct flame. The ignition point of wood is normally 500 degrees, but pyrolized wood can ignite at temperatures as low as 180 degrees. Internal flue gas temperatures of fireplaces can reach up to 400 degrees, but if a chimney fire occurs the temperature will be much higher. Some chimney fires in field testing by the Midwest Chimney Safety Council have caused temperature readings of 2,100 - 2,800 degrees. A masonry chimney will continue to heat up after a chimney fire is out, causing a secondary fire hazard. Often, fire departments are called back to a house several hours after leaving due to combustibles igniting after they extinguished the fire.

Note: Chris Brown warns that most chimney fires go unnoticed by homeowners and damages by fire are found later by a chimney inspector.

Padgitt says that most of the fire hazards he sees having to do with the structure is wood framing placed right next to the exterior of the chimney chase. Code requires 1” clearance for exterior chimneys, and 2” clearance for interior chimneys, but this is often ignored, even in newer homes. The location where it is the biggest problem is right above the opening of the fireplace in front of the smoke chamber, where the facial wall may hide internal combustible wood framing. Most of the house fires he sees start in this area.

Your Chimney Sweep recommends that a Level II internal camera inspection be performed for new homeowners by a NCCSA Certified Chimney Sweep.

The Chimney Sweeping Log: Does It Work?

2012-04-26T18:52:00.001-07:00

Nothing like a crackling fire for the winter season.

But before you fire up the fireplace, ask yourself, how clean is my chimney? Give it a sweep with the Chimney Sweeping Log! This product is supposed to prevent chimney fires by cleaning it as it burns.

But Does It Work? "From what we've read, it says it will work in masonry fireplaces. This is Butch Weber, his chimney business is named after him. He says the fire hazard come when your chimney builds up a residue called creosote.

The makers say this product is easy to use. All you do is light the log. Sounds easy enough.

This fire gives off a chemical that is supposed to dry out the creosote. Eventually, it will breakaway from the walls' of your fireplace. "We need to let this burn for 90 minutes," we said.

We revisited the log the next day. Butch says the log, if it worked, should show us some results. But we did not see any proof. What we saw was a log that did not burn all the way. "Here are the three previous marks we made. Here's a good creosote spot. Obviously none of it has fallen like the product said it would," says Butch.

So much for the easy way out to cleaning your chimney. "It still needs to be done the old fashioned way with the steel brushes and a vacuum. No miracle cure here yet," said Butch.

Save your $16. Don't let it go up in smoke like we did. The Chimney Sweeping Log doesn't work!

Wedding Services

2012-04-24T18:13:00.002-07:00

Thinking of hiring a chimney sweep for

your wedding service?

Chimney sweeps are a traditional accompaniment to a wedding and are said to bring good luck, fertility and fortune to the bride and groom.The tradition of a chimney sweep bringing the bride and groom luck on their wedding day is one that goes back many years to the reign of King George II.

The history of the Chimney Sweep

The story goes that as King George II was travelling in his carriage the horse attached to the carriage suddenly became wild and frenzied. The only person brave enough to take action and stop the horse from bolting with the carriage containing King George on it was a local chimney sweep who courageously stepped in and saved the day.

King George was so grateful to the chimney sweep for saving his life that he issued a Royal Decree that all chimney sweeps were to be regarded as bearers of good luck and that chimney sweeps were to be treated with the greatest of respect.

From that day forth the tradition of chimney sweeps being regarded as omens of good luck was established and this is why many couples make the choice to hire a chimney sweep to attend their wedding day.

What does a chimney sweep do on the Wedding Day?

On you’re wedding day I will arrive in traditional Victorian Style your chimney sweepsweep costume, including the customary chimney sweeps brush, top hat, coat with tails and soot blackened face.

I will allow plenty of time for the bride and groom and also any guests who wish to have a photo opportunity with me.

In order to bestow the Chimney Sweeps good luck I will have a handshake for the groom and a good luck kiss for the bride.

With the power given by the Royal Decree of King George II I will then recite a message of good luck for the future to the bride and groom. I will then present the bride and groom with a personalized certificate and a special gift.

In order to ensure good luck make sure to hire a genuine chimney sweep.

Woman Extracts Raccoon From Chimney With Pole

2012-04-20T03:14:00.000-07:00

This is the Second Raccoon Michelle Heyer has found in chimney!

Michelle Heyer was surprised that police responded to her call about a raccoon in her chimney, but they did.
It was the second time a raccoon had been trapped in the chimney of her Bryden Road home, and the first was big enough to crawl out, she said.
But this one could not stretch its arms and legs across the length of the inside of the chimney, where she spotted him Saturday, April 7.
Beachwood Police officers referred her to the animal warden, but she was worried they would kill the animal. So she took matters into her own hands.
Heyer took a long pole and stuck it in her chimney from above, hoping he would crawl out. Then she had to leave for a week on business.
While she was gone, she said, she worried that she would come home to a dead animal.
But the raccoon made it out safely. And now, she said, she plans to get the chimney cover installed. More stories at http://chimneyinfo.net/technobabble/

I’m Meeeeelting – The Wicked Witch and Your Chimney

2012-04-19T13:12:00.000-07:00

How to Keep your Chimney out of Water’s Destructive Grasp

Just like it is to the “Wicked Witch of the West”, water is the biggest contributing factor in the death a chimney. Rather than melting like the Evil “Wizard of Oz” character, a chimney shows its demise in other ways, but both can easily be overcome by this threat if they aren’t able to stay out of harm’s way.

The winter’s freezing and thawing cycles may have opened a path for moisture and water to enter during spring and summer storms. Now is the time to make sure your chimney systems is water tight and protected against the warm moist seasons that are coming.

A chimney has many different ways of showing signs of water damage and it is important to learn how to spot them so that the problem can be taken care of before it amounts to costly repairs. The key to preventing major problems with a chimney is to keep on top of minor repairs and regular maintenance. Water damage can be extensive and only noticeable in the late stages, so as a homeowner, knowing what to look for in terms of the early signs is the best way to catch problems the beginning stages, along with an annual chimney inspection by a professional. Listed below are some common water related problems and how to find the water source and prevent it from creating lasting harm.

Problem: Broken or Damaged Brick Surface

Brick material absorbs moisture and during the winter the water trapped inside of the brick freezes and thaws along with the changing outside temperatures. One of the results of this freeze then thaw pattern is spalling. Spalling is when the surface of the brick breaks off or becomes damaged. A telltale sign of this taking place are brick pieces on the ground around the chimney base. Also, if the damage is near the bottom, you may be able to see the broken bricks up close. Besides the aesthetic issues, spalling can cause major problems because once the surface of the brick is missing, the brick is now useless as a structural component of the chimney because it no longer offers any support. For this reason, it is important to keep an eye out for exterior damage to the chimney structure to catch problems before they amount to costly masonry repairs.

Solution: “Waterproofing” your Chimney

The most common solution for preventing future spalling is by “waterproofing” the exterior of the structure. It is virtually impossible to actually waterproof a chimney, but the solutions used to coat the outside of your chimney are “water resistant” and add an important layer of protection against moisture. A special type of water repellant treatment is used for this job as the material requires unique features. The solution must keep out moisture, but at the same time it must also allow moisture from inside the chimney to escape. As mentioned before, bricks are porous and absorb and pull water to the interior of the chimney. This is not good for the chimney system, so weather proofing prevents this from happening while still being “vapor permeable” or allowing inside moisture to exit. This way the material is still allowed to breathe, it just will not allow water that will cause problems to the interior of the chimney.

Problem: Rust and Liner Deterioration

It is common knowledge that where there is rust there is also water, so rust in a chimney can only mean one thing. A rusty firebox or damper is a sign that there must be some moisture getting into the interior of the chimney from somewhere. There could also be more damage that is not visible, such as the weakening or destruction of the metal parts within the chimney. Due to the wide range of problems moisture can cause a chimney, it is a good idea to quickly find the source of this unwanted water to ensure more problems do not develop and the current ones do not continue.

Clay Tile Chimney Liners can also be hurt by water that is able to make it through the brick and mortar exterior of your chimney. The smallest crack in your tile liner will open the door to extensive damage that can lead to costly liner replacement costs.

Solution: Chimney Cap, Flashing and Crown Checks

As a problem within the chimney, there are a few different factors that may have had an effect on how the moisture entered the structure. The first place to check in a situation like this should be at the top of the chimney to make sure there is a chimney cap. If a cap is missing, one should be installed as soon as possible as these fixtures are put in place to prevent rainwater, animals, or sticks and leaves from falling into the chimney. After this option is explored, have a professional check the condition of the chimney flashing and crown. Both of these parts of the chimney are in place to block moisture from entering areas of the chimney and one may be damaged or deteriorated and in need of repair. Leaking around the flashing may show up in the attic or on the ceilings adjacent to the chimney.

Problem: Cracked or Missing Mortar

Another chimney issue that can be blamed on water happens when the mortar between the bricks begins to deteriorate. This is a serious concern for the integrity of the structure as missing or damaged mortar will allow water to get behind the bricks and cause structural damage. This is also not a good look for the chimney and may result in missing bricks and large cracks as well. This destruction, like the spalling, is caused by the repeated freezing and thawing of water during those long Connecticut winters.

Solution: Tuckpointing

To repair this damage, chimney professionals replace the missing and damaged parts with fresh mortar. This is done by using special tools to secure the loose bricks once again after removing the crumbling pieces of mortar from the joints. During this process damaged bricks are also removed and replaced. Tuckpointing will not only repair the damage that has recently occurred, but it will also prevent further damage to the surrounding bricks. This process also prevents more water from seeping into the area and causing more problems.

Tuckpointing is done with care to blend in well with the areas that do not need replacing. This way the end result looks more like a new chimney than an incongruous spot replacement. Tuckpointing is an important repair as it will ensure strong and water-resistant joints between the bricks that will increase the life of the chimney and also prevent against future chimney repairs.

Prevention = Keeping a Close Eye on Your Chimney

With an informed, astute homeowner keeping an eye on these signals, a chimney’s fate does not have to be as drastic or final as the one the “Wicked Witch of the West” faced. Instead, the early indicators of water damage will lead to problems being caught in time and preventative steps being taken to put a stop to the damage. Troubles with water can be prevented and caught early if the warning signs are noted in advance. Keep this guide handy and you will always be prepared to take on the moisture!
Website – http://www.affordablesweep.com

A History of Chimney Sweeping

2012-04-19T13:11:00.000-07:00

The chimney sweep has been around for hundreds of years and still today is a necessary and important profession. The early Romans first made the switch from a single fire in the center of a room to an isolated fireplace to heat buildings and cook indoors, but it was not until 16th century England that the trend of fireplaces and chimneys really caught on. It was not long before people built fireplaces in each room of their home to use as a heat source. In 17th century England, along with all of the new fireplaces came a hearth tax, based on the size of the house and the number of chimneys the house had. To avoid these high taxes, builders would connect the flues of new fireplaces with those of an existing chimney, creating a complex maze of pitch black narrow tunnels inside the home.

In this same time period, coal became a popular substitute for burning wood in fireplaces. As a result of this switch from wood to coal, the need for regular cleaning became increasingly necessary. The use of coal left large sticky soot deposits on the walls of the fireplace that had to be cleaned off regularly for the chimney to remain cleared. If the fireplace was left uncared for, the coal residue would cause the chimney to back up and pollute the home with harmful fumes. At this point the profession of the chimney grew rapidly. With the rise in coal use, regular chimney sweep visits became a safety necessity. In London at this time, Queen Victoria mandated that all chimneys be cleaned regularly. At this time, chimney sweeps became known for bringing clean and fresh air back to the home and they became associated with good hearth and good health.

Many times in literature, movies and artwork child sweeps were portrayed as having fun and the cheerful young apprentices of accomplished older sweeps. The truth was a bit different of course. Many orphans were forced into child labor and treated poorly as they worked long, hard hours as chimney boys.

Cleaning the inside of the soot-filled chimney flues was a difficult and dangerous job because of the narrow chimney flues and the amount of soot the sweepers were exposed to. For this reason, the job was left to poor orphan boys brought in by the chimney master or children sold by their parents into the trade. The children served as indentured servants to their master; in exchange for a home and food and water the children were taught the trade. The children climbed into the chimneys to scrape off the coal deposits and brush the walls with little scrubber brushes. The conditions were harsh and the work was hard. Children were often scared to climb into the narrow passageways, so to give them a little extra encouragement the chimney masters would light a small fire under the child to coax him up the interior walls, hence the start of the expression, “to light a fire under you”. The life of a ‘climbing boy’ was not just undesirable but dangerous as well. Because they worked and lived in the soot and grime of the chimneys, the children often developed respiratory problems and other related issues. Fatal falls from rotting chimneys were not uncommon either. William Blake, an English poet, illustrates the difficult life of a chimney sweep boy in his poem, “The Chimney Sweeper”.

Finally, in 1864, Parliament passed the “Act for the Regulation of Chimney Sweepers” which ended the use of young boys to clean the chimneys. At this time, various cleaning devices were invented to aid the chimney sweep in cleaning and bushing the walls from one end of the chimney. One method of chimney cleaning invented around this time used a heavy lead or iron ball and rope system used to clean the chimney from the top all the way down to the fireplace. And, in the 18th century, a man named Joseph Glass invented chimney cleaning equipment consisting of a set of canes and brushes that could be used from the fireplace to clean all the way up to the top of the chimney. More modern variations of both of these inventions are still used today.

In the 1960s, gas and electricity have replaced coal and fireplaces as the main heating source for homes. This change in fuel type has mandated a revision to the role of the chimney sweep. In the 1970s though, when the price of fossil fuels rose dramatically, people went back to burning wood in their fireplaces rather than to use other more costly methods of heating. But when people used fireplaces that had been left unused for a long period of time without proper cleaning and care, house fires and carbon monoxide poisonings from clogged chimneys became commonplace. This switch back to the use of fireplaces after years of non-use was very dangerous if the proper provisions were not taken care of beforehand. Presently, the professional chimney sweep has made a comeback with fireplaces getting regular use rather than just used for a decoration and this old profession is still growing today.

Although the life of the early chimney sweeps including children has often been dramatized and romanticized as being cheery and fun in stories, movies and artwork, the reality was quite different and the sweep’s life many times was one of toil and hardship.

One of the most famous literary works about Chimney Sweeps is William Blake’s poem, “The Chimney Sweeper.”

The chimney sweep today has come a long way from sending children armed with brushes up the chimney flues. Professional chimney sweeps are educated in the codes and science behind chimneys and fireplaces. Chimney sweeps now do more than simply clean a chimney; they diagnose and service problems, repair all types of chimneys and install fireplaces and hearths. Through it all, the chimney sweep remains an important profession that will continue to grow and bring good health and good hearth to every home they service.

Today, the chimney sweep is a well respected professional that helps to provide homeowners and businesses to maintain safe operation of heating systems, fireplaces, stoves, flues and chimneys of all kinds. Organizations like the North Carolina Chimney Sweeps Association hold members to very high ethical and educational standards of performance as well

Calif. Teen Gets Stuck In Chimney

2012-04-19T13:09:00.001-07:00

The California teenager who got stuck in the chimney of his family’s home was no Santa Claus trying to deliver holiday gifts.

Instead, 18-year-old Jorge Herrera was trying to get around his parents’ curfew, authorities say, by entering his home through the fireplace in his bedroom.

“He was going to miss his curfew, and then he had climbed down the chimney in an attempt to avoid the wrath of his parents,” said Van Riviere, battalion chief with the Stockton Fire Department.

Fire department officials responded to a call for help placed by Herrera’s family around 10 a.m. Thursday after they heard sounds coming from the chimney of their Stockton, Calif., home.

Firefighters found Herrera stuck inside. An hour later, Herrera was freed from the chimney, but not before firefighters had to first break the chimney apart and then use ropes, and a little soap, to pull him out of the narrow chimney. He was not hurt.

“He’s dirty and embarrassed and it remains to be seen what his parents will do with him,” said Battalion Chief Van Riviere.

Wood Burning and the Carbon Footprint

2012-04-19T13:08:00.000-07:00

Wood Burning and the Carbon Footprint

How can you help save the environment, save money and still heat your home completely all winter long? Wood burning stoves use a replenishable and inexpensive fuel that is extremely efficient especially when modern appliances are used. Wood burning stoves may seem old fashioned, but the rustic, old fashioned look and feel comes with modern efficiency and capabilities these days. You don’t have to choose one or the other, the romantic blaze from a woodburnig stove or fireplace insert can also heat your home and save you money.

Is burning wood really a “greener” way to heat or supplement the heating of your home? Well, to begin with burning wood for heat does not add to your individual carbon footprint. Wood gives off the same amount of carbon whether it is burned up or decays naturally and is considered Carbon Neutral. Next point to consider is that wood is a “renewable” resource. Unlike oil, coal, or gas – when we run out of those fuel sources, they’ll be gone for good. Wood harvesting techniques are based on a sustainable model, so wood will be there for us in the future. We can’t grow oil, but we can (and do) grow more trees. Another point to consider is the cost of production and transportation associated with the non-renewables. Over all, wood comes out looking good from a “green” perspective.

As compared with fossil fuels and other energy sources, the benefits of wood far surpass its competition. New wood burning stoves and fireplace inserts are engineered with fuel economy in mind and health and environmental concerns kept as the highest priority. While fossil fuels contaminate the environment and then are used up and cannot be replaced, wood burning has made drastic improvements in burning efficiency and without emissions and can be easily used sustainably.

Still need more convincing?

Low Cost – Wood burning stoves and fireplace inserts are the most cost effective source of energy. Wood is abundantly available and homeowners can often find a source of wood to burn for free! Even without the extra effort of finding wood for free, wood is still a relatively inexpensive option. Wood costs roughly a third the cost of natural gas, electricity or oil. Coal, gas and oil are fossil-based, non-renewable resources. And in the last year, costs for these commodities have soared along with the electricity prices. Don’t get caught in these traps. A wood burning stove is your way out.

Low Emissions – Today, high efficiency wood burning stoves and fireplace inserts can maximize the heat dispersed from a burning log and these stoves leave behind little evidence of the wood burning as it is almost completely burned besides minor amounts of ash. The new stoves produce only about 2-5 grams of smoke per hour of burning. And even less ash. For this reason, some modern stoves are so completely clean burning that they are approved for use in smokeless areas indoors. A wood burning stove is designed to burn at much higher temperatures. This means gases present in the smoke are fully burned and not released back into the atmosphere. This results in a thermal efficiency of around 80%. Which means that a log burnt in a modern wood stove can get around 4 times more heat than one log in an open fire.

Carbon Neutral - The process of burning wood also does not emit any additional carbon dioxide than the natural biodegradation of the wood if it were left to rot on the forest floor. Over the course of a tree’s life it absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and then releases this carbon dioxide when it either decomposes naturally or is burned. For this reason, no CO2 is added to the atmosphere, it simply releases the carbon dioxide that was previously accumulated back into the environment. Wood is a very environmentally friendly source of fuel because it is carbon neutral. Fossil fuels on the other hand, are not carbon neutral. Fossil fuels have stored and accumulated carbon over hundreds of years and then, all at once, this carbon is released in its entirety when the fossil fuels are burned. This process adds substantial amounts of carbon dioxide to the environment.

Sustainable – Wood is an abundant resource in North America and unlike many of the alternatives, a renewable one too. Today we have more wooded acres than we did 100 years ago and the balance is carefully managed to preserve our wooded lands. To keep the wood supply at a sustainable state, there needs to be some maintenance that goes along with the wood harvesting.

Sustainable forests are the key to wood as a heat resource. The days where clear cutting was acceptable are over and the concept of planting more than you harvest is alive and well. Wood is an entirely renewable source of energy only when handled correctly, but the great news is that it is very simple to maintain a sustainable forest! The US Forest Service helps control the excess timber that is harvested and they work to ensure the companies are utilizing sustainable cutting practices. Another important factor in eco-friendly wood burning is using local wood. The costs associated with preparing wood to burn goes up when transportation is involved, so the best way to receive wood is from a local forest or producer. This local purchasing reduces the pollution emitted during the transportation process and ensures the entire process is sustainable.

With the energy crisis always on the upswing, any and every use of fuel is under high scrutiny. Overall, a timber-fueled system provides a great all around solution to a home heating fuel source. Avoid the stress. Go green and reduce energy costs at the same time!

Give me a call if you have any questions at Affordable Chimney Service / 704.526.6348.

Why Should I Care About Chimney Liners

2012-04-19T13:05:00.002-07:00

Why Should I Care About Chimney Liners

What you Need to Know About Liners

It may seem like just a part of the chimney that you don’t really need to understand, but a liner is actually a very critical part of every chimney. In fireplaces that burn gas, oil, or solid fuels, a liner helps guide the combustion by-products out and away from the chimney. Every chimney needs a working liner and during your annual chimney cleaning, your chimney professional may tell you that you need a new one or that you need to repair the existing one.

There are a few reasons why you may need a new liner; if your chimney currently has no liner, if it was installed improperly or if it is deteriorating or defective in some way. Before the 1940s, homes were typically built without a chimney liner and as a result, before this time, chimney and house fires were much more commonplace. A liner provides extra protection to the interior of the chimney and helps guide the gases and particles up and out of the structure.

There are three main types of chimney liners. These include clay tile liners, cast-in-place liners, and metal liners. While all 3 options provide adequate protection for your chimney flue, there are different circumstances when each variety may be the best option for you.

Clay Tile Liners – Usually Built During Home Construction

In many older homes you will find clay tile liners in the chimney. This method has been around since the 1900s and there is good reason why it is still used today. Clay tiles can withstand extremely high temperatures without damaging or hindering the performance of the liner. Clay tiles also hold up against the corrosive materials that are burned in and pass through the flue to leave the chimney. In addition, the clay tile material itself is relatively inexpensive to purchase and once installed, these tile liners last for about 50 years.

While there are many benefits to using clay tiles, it also has some drawbacks. The materials to create the clay tile liner are inexpensive, but the work that must go along with the installation can be rather costly if it is not built along with the home. Today, for the most part tile liners are installed during the home building process. To replace a tile liner that is falling apart is a more difficult task. Even with the simplest straight chimney, the old tiles must be chipped and broken out from the top of the chimney using special tools your chimney professional will have. Sometimes the chimney walls must be broken through every few feet to take out the old flue and install the new one. And when the chimney is crooked or contains “offsets”, it makes the process much more difficult. To reline the chimney effectively, the tiles need to be cut precisely to fit together within the flue. The installation process is tedious, especially for flues that are not simply perfectly straight. The tile shape is also not really the best shape to line a chimney. The tiles don’t create a smooth interior as each tile is in a square or rectangular shape. For this reason, air gets caught in the spaces between tiles and it may also affect the draft in your chimney. And the tiles can crack with age or if they are damaged. A round liner can eliminate these problems. Due to the difficulty of this job, it is recommended not to take this on as a home repair job. It definitely requires the skills of a chimney sweep professional.

Cast-in-Place Liner – To Reinforce an Existing Chimney

This option is perfect for creating a new flue inside of a chimney that is in poor shape. It works to reinforce the existing chimney and provides a sturdy and effective liner. Similar to the clay flues, cast-in-place liners are not affected by the heat or harmful gases put off from the fire below. For this reason, they are very durable. Cast-in-place liners provide good insulation value and higher temperatures within the chimney. This makes the fires burn cleaner and acquire less creosote buildup as a result. These liners also last a long time (up to 50 years in some cases), just like the clay liners.

The process for installing a cast in place liner, while less invasive than the clay liner, is still a difficult task to take on. One way this liner is created is by a certain mortar mix being pumped into the chimney around an inflated rubber bladder to create a smooth rounded surface within the chimney. Once the mortar has set, the bladder is then removed with the liner still intact. There are other proprietary methods used by chimney professionals to create this type of liner as well. One uses a bell shaped form that vibrates as it is pulled up through the chimney at the same time mortar is poured into the chimney. The mortar forms around the bell as it is raised the distance of the chimney forming a round flue opening in the mortar.

Metal Flue Liner – Liners that Works in Most Every Chimney

There are many different shapes and varieties of metal flue liners. Typically a stainless steel alloy is used. The metal flue liners come in two different forms; rigid and flexible. The type your chimney professional will choose to use depends on the shape of your chimney. Rigid liners are used in chimneys that are completely straight with no off-sets or bends. While both liners provide proper protection, one advantage of the flexible liner is that it may hold less buildup because it expands and contracts with the temperatures of the chimney which then knocks off any creosote or other buildup when it moves. Corrosion is the most common problem that occurs with metal flue liners. But by using the correct alloy to go with the type of fuel burned the corrosion problem can be addressed. Insulation can also be used with metal liners. Insulation material around the metal liner helps to keep higher heat in the chimney and also helps to get rid of condensation that may cause corrosion over time in the chimney. It also prevents heat from moving into the pipes within the home structure. Metal liners are the perfect option for already existing chimneys that do not have a liner or need a liner replacement. They are a relatively simple installation with almost all of the benefits of the other types of liners. Chimneys without bends and twists are the simplest to install a metal liner into but it can work in all chimneys with the flexible metal liner.

There are a few different types of chimney liners and they all have their benefits, the important thing is to have a chimney liner in the first place. Hire a chimney professional to take a look to make sure your chimney lining is doing it’s job – and if there are deficiencies, to determine the best option for you!

Chimney Sweep History

2012-04-19T13:04:00.000-07:00

Chimney Sweep History
By Theresa Leschmann, eHow Contributor

Chimney Sweep History
Chimney sweeps are often associated with England, particularly the Victorian period. Our popular collective perception of chimney sweeps compares favorably with Dick Van Dyke's portrayal of Burt the chimney sweep in the classic Disney film "Mary Poppins." Chimney sweeps have been around much longer than that and are still with us today. Most of the work was done by children, until child labor laws came into being.
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Read more: Chimney Sweep History | eHow.co.uk http://www.ehow.co.uk/about_5085073_chimney-sweep-history.html#ixzz1pvy7qxFL

Woman Chimney Sweepers

2012-04-19T13:02:00.003-07:00

Growing up, Gina Somerton, 42, of Wells-Next-the-Sea, Norfolk, had dreamed of becoming a hairdresser and went on to work as a shop assistant and in restaurants.

But a conversation about possible alternative careers with her partner's mother got the mum-of-three thinking that chimneys might be an ideal source of income; six years on, her business, Lady Sweep, is thriving.

"I wanted to be my own boss, I wanted to be able to spend time with my children during the summer," she says. "It might sound strange to some people, but to me it's perfect.

"It's true that I get dirty. But I can come home and have a shower afterwards, can't I?"

Photograph by Horace Nicholls of a woman chimney sweep in wartime Kent, undated.

Horace Nicholls was one of two professional photographers who were commissioned in 1917 by the Women's Work Committee of the newly founded Imperial War Museum to take photographs of women at work during the First World War. This photograph shows a woman chimney sweep in Kent, 'carrying on the business of her husband who was a sweep before the war' - one of the many examples of women stepping into previously male-dominated professions during the period between 1914 and 1918.

FORMER call center worker Dawn Peters gave her old job the brush off — to become one of only three women chimney sweeps in Britain.

She started last October and now cleans up to four chimneys a day.

The ex-BT worker said: "I had to change careers because I can't use a computer after I developed medical problems.

"My partner said I could do a better job than our sweep so I gave it a go. It's a fantastic business if you don't mind getting a bit dirty."

Dawn, 36, of Exeter, Devon, added: "There are only three women registered with the Institute of Chimney Sweeps.

"You have to be fit — but there's no reason why a woman can't do it."

Chimney Sweeps Are Lucky!

2012-04-19T13:01:00.001-07:00

LUCKY LOVE

Did you know that it's good luck to see a chimney sweep on your wedding day, and most especially to shake his hand or be kissed by him? Many chimney sweeps today are still invited to weddings to help assure a good start to a happy marriage. The tradition goes back, so it is said, to a chimney sweep who lost his footing and fell from a roof. He was caught on the gutter and hanging by his foot when a young lass, whose hand was intended for another, reached through the window and pulled him in, saving his life. They fell in love and the two were later married

THE KINGS LUCK

A Chimney Sweep is a sign of good luck, wealth and happiness. There are several legends why a Chimney Sweep is said to be "The" harbinger of good luck. One version of the legend has it's origins in old England, where King George was riding horseback in a royal procession. A dogran from the crowd, barking and nipping at the King's horse. The horse reared, and to the horror of the crowd, almost threw the King! A lone figure, shabbily dressed and filthy, stepped into the road. He caught the horse's halter and calmed the animal.

As quickly as he appeared, the man faded back into crowd. The King, wanting to reward the man, asked his name. No-one knew the man's name, but many told the King that he is just a Chimney Sweep.The King declared that from that day that chimney sweeps should be regarded as Lucky!

A ROMAN CHIMNEY CAP

The chimney has been a part of family life since the early Romans first realized that it was better to live in a nice, fire-warmed home than in a chilly one. They needed a way to funnel off the smoke the fires caused. Centuries later, in medieval times, fireplaces were invented to heat individual rooms and provide a safe place for indoor cooking. They soon learned that fireplaces and their chimneys needed a cleaning as a house full of soot and fumes is unhealthy. And so, chimney sweeping developed into a necessary profession. People liked having the chimney sweep pay a visit as he brought clean, fresh air back to the home. Sweeps are associated with hearth and home, and thus domestic bliss. Chimney Sweeps became a sign of good health and prosperity

Vented vs. Vent-Free Gas Logs

2012-04-19T13:00:00.000-07:00

When shopping for gas logs, you'll be asked to choose whether you want vented or vent-free logs. This decision comes down to several factors including looks vs. efficiency, local building codes and placement of the fireplace.

With vented logs, you'll enjoy a large, realistic-looking flame that operates with an open chimney flue, or damper. These logs, which simulate a wood-burning fire, are more decorative than they are efficient as a heat source because much of the generated heat goes up the chimney.

Vent-free logs, which operate with the chimney flue closed, will not give you that roaring fire effect—the flame is not as realistic or as high as you'll find with vented logs. But, vent-free logs are an efficient heat source because 100% of the heat generated stays in your home. You'll often see vent-free logs referred to as "vent-free heaters" because that is essentially what they are. They consist of U-shaped burners with cement logs stacked on top of the heating element. Most sets have a thermostatic control that helps maintain a consistent room temperature. Vent-free heaters add moisture to the air, so it's important to install them in a room with proper ventilation to avoid formation of mildew.

The convince of a remote control.

Before installing any gas log system, visit Hearth and Patio on Monroe Rd in Matthews NC. In some localities, vent-free heaters are not permitted. Vent-free heaters are not permitted in bedrooms, bathrooms or recreational vehicles, and must be installed in an area where curtains, furniture, clothing or other flammable objects are at least 36 inches away from the perimeter of the heater. Vent-free heater installation also is not recommended in high traffic, windy or drafty areas.

Ten crazy German rules

2012-04-19T12:58:00.001-07:00

Germans rarely find a rule they don't want to embrace. There is a saying in the country: "Everything is forbidden; apart from that, do what you like". Here are some of the more quirky Teutonic laws:

1) It is illegal to build an office without a view of the sky.

2) It is an offence punishable with a fine and points on your license to run out of petrol on a motorway.

3) A "quiet time" is observed between noon and 3pm when it is forbidden to mow the lawn, wash cars, play loud music or hammer nails.

4) It is forbidden to hand washing out on Sunday.

5) A pillow is classified as a "passive weapon" and hitting someone with one can lead to charges of assault.

6) It is illegal to wear a mask while on strike.

7) It is illegal to tune pianos at midnight.

8) You can be fined 20 Euros for calling someone an "arse" but 5,000 Euros for calling an official a "little Hitler".

9) It is against the law to deny a chimney sweep access to your home if he demands it.

10) It is illegal to have the ashes of your loved one stored in an urn at home after cremation.

The Stack Effect

2012-04-19T12:57:00.000-07:00

When Buildings Act Like Chimneys

As heat escapes a roof, cold air is sucked in through the basement and first floor windows, In summer, the opposite happens. [Click image for slideshow.]

Hot air rises, and cold air sinks, but stack effect ventilation reverses in summer

Like wind, the stack effect can move large volumes of air through a building envelope. In the winter, the warm air in a heated building is lighter (less dense) than the cold air outside the building; that warm bubble of air wants to rise up and out. The flow of air leaving the top of the building draws cold air into cracks at the bottom.

The reverse happens in summer when hot air outside of an air-conditioned house can push cooler indoor air down from the ceiling and out of cracks in the basement (see drawing). At least in theory, this can lead to moisture problems on the top floor.

But the differences in temperature and pressure aren’t as great during the summer as they are during the winter. When it’s cold outside, the pressure created by the stack effect is 4 pascals per story of height; when it’s hot, about 1.5 pascals per story of height.

Unlike most other pressures, the stack effect acts every hour of every cold day, and the pressures generated by the stack effect are significant.

Leaky buildings consume tremendous amounts of energy. Air leaks can contribute to condensation, compromising the quality of the indoor air. For high-rise residential buildings in cold weather, that isn’t the worst-case scenario — it’s the normal scenario (see "Why revolving doors were invented," below).

WHY REVOLVING DOORS WERE INVENTED

If the stack effect is a big deal in two-story houses, imagine what kind of pressure it causes in high-rise buildings. This pressure is so significant in fact that "when skyscrapers were first developed at the turn of the century, people also had to invent revolving doors because you couldn’t open the front door due to the stack effect pressure," says Straube. "The cold air was rushing in with so much pressure that it was difficult to push the exit doors open."

Stack effect feeds on itself

"Air entering the building make the downstairs people cold, so they turn up the thermostat. When the people upstairs get all that heated air, they open the windows to cool off. This increases the flow of air leaving the building, which increases the flow of air coming up from the bottom floors — so the people downstairs plug in space heaters.

“You wind up with this merry-go-round — sucking air up the bottom, heating it up, and blowing it out the top,” says Straube. “There’s so much airflow in the elevator shafts that you can float! You can just put out your arms and you’ll float in the middle of winter in many of these buildings.”

What is that Smell Coming from My Fireplace

2012-04-19T12:55:00.003-07:00

It’s common to find remedy from the odor by cleaning the creosote and soot out of the chimney. Hot, humid summer days and rainy days adding moisture will produce undesirable odors from a dirty chimney. A chimney cleaning will also find any decomposing material problems and will also clean the creosote out of the chimney. The creosote soaks into the chimney walls so even after a chimney cleaning is complete this may continue to contribute to the smell. Although, as long as the draft is working correctly and there is no negative air flow in the home, the smell should not enter your home.

If the chimney inspection and cleaning does not rid the home of the odor, next it is best to seal the chimney from water sitting in the chamber and causing a musty smell. This can be done by installing a top mounted damper or chimney rain cap to keep the rain water and moisture out. The top mounted damper is your best bet for sealing the chimney off from rain and humidity and it prevents animals and leaves from getting into the chimney shaft as well.

Dirty chimneys are often the smelly culprit!

After the water issues are taken care of, the next concern is the air pressure in the home. Most chimneys will have some type of smell to them, but this is typically not a problem because the chimney draft drives this smell out of the flue and away from the inside room. But when there is negative air pressure in the home, air has to come from somewhere to fill this vacancy. Because the chimney has a low point of resistance, this additional air typically comes through here, bringing the chimney odors along with it. Often found in newer tight homes, this negative air pressure can reverse the flow of draft from the chimney back into the home. This problem also often shows up during the warmer months after weatherizing has been done to the home or venting changes and improvements have been made. Other causes of the negative air pressure include exhaust fans, HVAC systems, additional chimneys, combustion appliance flues, range hood, and the installation of many more household appliances.

Here is the Proof - Babies Do Not Like Smelly Chimneys!

A quick solution to the negative air pressure is to crack a window at all times to let the pressure change through this outlet rather than the chimney. But for a more permanent approach to the negative air pressure, follow these steps till the smell no longer enters the home.

1. Close the fire damper when the fireplace is not in use. While this will sometimes solve the problem, most dampers are not perfectly sealed, so they problem may still occur.
2. Have a glass fire screen installed to keep the warm air from escaping when there is a fire in the fireplace.
3. Have a professional install a top sealing damper onto the top of the chimney that is controlled by a metal chain and hangs down the chimney to the hearth. These can be a huge help in monitoring the airflow.
4. Provide outside combustion air to other combustion appliances that started the air pressure problem in the home.

The smell could be a result of a number of problems, here is a quick guide to discovering the source of the odor.

If your chimney smells like ——– Then it most likely is from…

Bad Barbeque/Asphalt ————- Creosote build up
Musty Odor ————————– Water sitting in your smoke chamber
Rot and Decomposition ———— Fallen leaves combining with damp soot and rotting in the chimney
Animal Scat or Dead Critters —— Animals leaving behind thoughtful “gifts” in your chimney or not being able to escape and passing away

It is never a bad time to get a chimney inspection. Even in the middle of the summer, with months till you even start to think about cold weather activities, chimney professions are available to inspect and clean your chimney. Don’t let an intrusive smell draw all of the attention, take care of the odor as soon as it is noticed and enjoy your fireplace all year long. Call me with questions, Chris Brown (704)526-6348

he Most Notable Chimneys in the World

2012-04-19T12:54:00.001-07:00

The Chimney’s Claim to Fame – The Most Famous Chimneys in the World!

It may be hard to imagine a world renowned chimney, but these chimney examples will have even those who are somewhat less enthused by chimneys, very impressed. While for the most part chimneys are built for functional purposes, there are a few cases where the design of the structure goes far beyond that of simple functionality and instead develops into ostentatious displays of wealth or unusually emphasized structural components.

Most Creative Chimney
A one-of-a-kind chimney was designed by Rudolf Steiner and finished in 1914. The chimney dominated the building that housed the boiler room for the 15 building complex. The unique structure called Das Heizhaus is part of The Goetheanum complex that is the center of the School of Spiritual Science and the Anthroposophical Society in Donarch, Switzerland. Rudolf Steiner, a spiritual leader and founder of the Waldorf Education system among many other accomplishments, used his work to reflect his belief in a form follows function style of building with the boiler building’s dominant feature of a prominent chimney. He also believed in integrating his architecture with nature in every one of his designs, which is again exemplified in the supposed leaves growing out from the sides of the chimney structure.

Artists are often known to pay attention to things others may ignore and Antoni Gaudi is no exception. Known for his unique designs that are considered to fall somewhere in between Modernism and Art Nouveou, he is often referred to as “God’s Architect”. Throughout his life as an architect, he was in constant demand and created designs considered to be way ahead of his time. Each project Gaudi took on became elaborately decorated. Every last inch of each of his structures right up to the chimneys on the roof of the homes were carefully and intentionally designed. For this reason, three of the most notable chimneys in the world were designed by the Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi, all of which are today UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Casa Mila was built as an apartment building for a wealth couple in Barcelona, Spain.

Casa Mila
One of the most popular architects in history, Gaudi receives recognition for his fantastic tile work and creative art deco designs. One of the unique sets of chimneys he created is at Casa Mila, an apartment building originally built for Roser Segimon and Pere Mila. Don’t bother looking it up, although his work appears “gaudy” to many it is not the source of the word! The set of ventilation towers on top of the roof of the building look like guards keeping a lookout from the top of the complex. The distinct chimneys are known as espanta bruixes, which means “witch scarers” in Italian. The whole structure has the peculiar look to it that only Guadi’s buildings have and at the time it was built, it was considered a controversial design, but now the building is highly regarded and revered and visited regularly by awed tourists.

Casa Batllo
Along these same lines of Casa Mila, on a building restored by Antoni Gaudi, the artist and legend created a colorful variety of chimneys for Casa Batllo. Locally known as the “House of Bones”, Casa Batllo was just like every other Gaudi creation where every part of the building looks distinctly like only his designs do. This includes the lack of straight lines and use of colorful ceramic tiles incorporated into every area of the home. Even the decorative curvy chimneys that cheerfully lined the rooftop are completely covered in colorful tiles.

Palau Guell
The most distinct feature of this building, besides the chimneys of course, is the fact that the entire home is based around the living room. This home was ordered by one of Gaudi’s close friends and is one of his largest projects. The decorative chimneys look almost as if they are delicious candies with their bright colors and fun designs. The home was completed in 1888 and after a recent renovation is now once again open to the public.

Most Chimneys in One Place
The Chateau of Chambord, which Francis I started in 1519, has 365 chimneys, each different, each decked out with sculpted shields, wreaths, columns, animals or nymphs. The building, which was never completed, was constructed by King François I in part to be near to his mistress the Comtesse de Thoury. The Chambord is the largest château in the Loire Valley; it was built to serve as a hunting lodge for François I. The château also features 440 rooms and 84 staircases.

The Oldest Chimneys
One of the most famous older chimneys Thornbury castle is a Tudor structure that was built in 1511 for the 3rd Duke of Buckingham, but the fancy chimneys were added on 3 years later. This castle was later confiscated by King Henry VIII and this notorious king occupied the castle for a short time with Anne Boleyn. The intricate designs on this castle’s majestic chimneys are made from molded and carved bricks. It is one of England’s oldest and most historic homes.

We see evidence of earlier chimneys, but perhaps the oldest chimneys still standing are in the massive kitchen building of the 12th-century abbey of Fontevrault, where Henry II of England, his wife, Eleanor of Aquitame, and their son Richard the Lion Heart are buried. The abbey’s five huge wood-burning fireplaces, used for cooking and smoking meat and fish for a monastic community of several hundred persons, are ingeniously connected to 20 pencil-shaped stone chimneys that blend harmoniously with the structure’s Romanesque architecture.

The Tallest Chimney
Currently the record goes to the Ekibastuz GRES-2 Power Station with a 1337 ft tall coal-fueled power generating station that was built in 1987 in Ekibastuz, Kazakhstan. The US currently has a 1217 ft. chimney at another coal burning power station in Homer City, Pennsylvania which falls short of the tallest in the world but the US will be taking back that distinction soon in Arizona with a unique Solar Chimney.

Future Tallest (& Greenest) Chimney
In the coming years, the tallest chimney in the world will also be the second tallest structure in the entire world. Set to soar to 2625 ft the tower will be only about 100 feet less than the Burj Khalifa (the world’s tallest structure) recently completed in Dubai. This “chimney” will be over a half mile high will take solar heated air and draft it up the chimney which will in turn generate power by use of wind turbines inside the structure! This will be the cleanest chimney in the world as well since there is nothing burning, but since it is used to draft air up and into the atmosphere we do consider it a chimney stack none-the-less. Not your average chimney for sure, and no there is no fireplace attached. The huge chimney is to be located in the middle of Arizona and this solar energy generating structure will cost about $750 million to build. It will then create enough energy to run 200,000 homes in the area. This new chimney is planned to be built by 2015 and will be twice the size of the Empire State Building in New York City. This enormous solar powered energy plant will be built by an Australian company called EnviroMission. Besides a small test project in Spain, nothing quite like it has ever been built. This is sure to be one famous chimney!

Don’t let your notions of how a chimney should look become limited by the types of chimneys you grew up with. The spectrum goes far beyond the classic red brick and the designs can be as wild as you can imagine!

The Chimney Cap Question

2012-04-19T12:52:00.003-07:00

Do I really need a chimney cap?

Even though a chimney cap is a minor and relatively inexpensive installation many homeowners question whether it is necessary or not. The truth is that this small amount of metal protecting your chimney can prevent numerous mishaps from taking place and save a homeowner thousands of dollars in unnecessary chimney repair or damage expenses. So ultimately you may not need a chimney cap in place for functional purposes, but unless you want headaches down the road (and little critters running through your home), a properly installed chimney cap is a must. A chimney cap will prevent animals from entering your home, keep the moisture out, and protect the roof from burning embers starting a house fire.

Keep the animals away.

During the cooler months, animals walking along your roof will feel the warmth around the chimney from the fire below. For this reason they will make their nests close to or inside of the small and comforting space of the chimney flue. It doesn’t take long for an unwelcomed family of critters to move into your chimney. Squirrels can create a 4 foot deep nest in less than 24 hours! Installing a simple chimney cap with mesh siding will prevent these animals from homesteading within your residence.

Bird and squirrel nests built in the enclosed space of a chimney also creates the problem of blocking the path for what usually goes out of the top of the chimney. Typically smoke and gases from the fire below will exit the home through the chimney. With large squirrel or bird nests in the way though, these harmful gases will end up backed up into the rooms of your home. This backup can cause smoke and soot damage and even carbon monoxide poisoning.

Unwanted animals nesting, sparks and embers escaping and moisture getting in and damaging your chimney are the main reasons to have an adequate chimney cap.

What’s so bad about moisture?

Rain, snow, and ice all create problems for your chimney if they are allowed in the chimney flue. Moisture causes deterioration problems within the structure and when mixed with certain types of soot it can become even more harmful to the inside structure of your chimney. The freezing and melting of ice and snow is especially hard on the masonry chimney walls, chimney crown and chimney liner. This freeze and thaw damage can cause severe problems such as cracks in the structure during the winter months which often leads to costly repairs. Therefore, it is best to not allow the excess moisture into the chimney in the first place by diverting the elements away from the chimney with a chimney cap that is right for your chimney.

Protect against unruly embers.

Burning embers from the fire below get sent up and out of the chimney along with the burning gases. These pieces of the fire that are still lit escape out of the top of the chimney and can cause chimney fires and damage to your roof. These problems are entirely avoidable with the addition of a chimney cap and spark guard to prevent the burning particles from escaping.

Will adding a chimney cap create draft problems?

A common misconception that comes along with the topic is the worry that caps will cause problems with the chimney draft. At times adding a chimney cap incorrectly can create draft problems. But if you hire a professional chimney sweep to do the job, a chimney cap can often fix a draft problem. There are specially designed chimney caps that reduce draft problems or correct existing ones. It is important to call a professional chimney sweep rather than to attempt the job on your own because incorrect installation can lead to creating more problems rather than fixing the existing one. Also, the quality and manufacturing processes of a chimney cap that professionals install are held to a much higher standard than standard retail caps available at the big box hardware stores. These caps will also typically come with better manufacturer and installation warranties as well. A properly installed cap will not only help solve existing problems but also prevent new ones from taking place.

So how do I get one?

Now that you realize the importance of having a chimney cap in place, it is important to choose the right type. Lowes and Home Depot may have bargain deals that look appealing for chimney caps, but these caps are typically made of aluminum and do not provide adequate coverage to keep your home safe and your chimney clean. For these reason, it is best to pick either the brand that installed your metal chimney liner, or to go with a chimney cap installed by your local chimney sweep. Call your chimney sweep and get a recommendation for the best type of chimney cap for your specific chimney. Chimney caps come in a variety of shapes and sizes that are useful in different cases, but the most important element is what it is made from. Copper and stainless steel are the most commonly used metals by chimney sweeps as they are also the most durable and best for the job. Also, if you have a multi-flue chimney, one large cap can be put in place rather than installing multiple individual ones. This provides a sleeker rooftop look.

With a professionally installed chimney cap in place you can sleep soundly and rest assured that the only outside creature climbing around in your chimney will be the jolly old Santa Claus.

Fireplace Can Raise Heating Bill

2012-04-19T12:51:00.001-07:00

Fireplaces Are Great To Look At!

A fire in the fireplace is relaxing, but they don't heat your home as thoroughly as you may think. Fireplaces deliver 10 percent or less of the fire's heat to the room and will increase your heating bill in two ways.

First, firewood costs more than the value of the delivered heat. Seasoned oak firewood must cost less than $20 per cord (a cord is a stack 4 feet wide by 4 feet high by 8 feet long) to provide heat from a fireplace at a cost comparable to a heat pump, according to the University of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service.

Fireplaces also require a large volume of air from the chimney. The incoming air cools the rest of the house, causing the primary heater to operate more than if you had no fire.

Here are some tips to care for your fireplace efficiently:

If you never use your fireplace, plug and seal the chimney flue.

Check the seal on the flue damper and make it as snug as possible. Add caulking around the fireplace hearth.

Keep your fireplace damper closed unless a fire is going. Keeping the damper open is like keeping a 48-inch window wide open during the winter; it allows warm air to go right up the chimney.

When you use the fireplace, reduce heat loss by opening dampers in the bottom of the firebox (if provided) or open the nearest window slightly -- approximately 1 inch -- and close doors leading into the room. Lower the thermostat setting to between 50 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Install tempered glass or metal doors or heat sheilds. Placed in front of the fireplace, these sorts of devices will limit the amount of warm room air that escapes the house when the fireplace is not is use. Doors work particularly well when a fire is burning down for the night, but the damper has to remain open to allow the smoke to vent. While the fireplace is in operation, glass doors should remain open, since most of the warmth produced by a fireplace is in the form of radiant heat. If closed, the glass will deflect radiant heat back into the fireplace and reduce the heat output to the room.

Use grates made of C-shaped metal tubes to draw cool room air into the fireplace and circulate warm air back into the room.

Look at new fireplace designs. Circulating fireplaces have heat circulation ducts built into the masonry fireplace. These pull air from the room, circulate it around a metal firebox and send it back, warmed, into the room. Some of these units have built-in fans to increase the flow of air and heat. Made of metal, circulating fireplaces warm quickly and cool rapidly once the fire is extinguished.

Consider fireplace inserts. An insert is basically a metal wood stove that slides neatly into the fireplace cavity. They are relatively easy to install, and can improve a fireplace's efficiency. Before adding one, however, make sure to have your fireplace and chimney inspected and cleaned by Affordable Chimney Service (704)526-6348

Chimney Swift

2012-04-19T12:46:00.003-07:00

A "flying cigar,"

the Chimney Swift is rarely seen perched. Its high-pitched twittering is a familiar sound during summertime in the city as it flies high above, catching small flying insects.

Cool Facts

Before European settlement of North America, the Chimney Swift probably nested in caves and hollow trees. The swift benefited greatly by the construction of chimneys and the increased availability of new nest sites. Recent changes in chimney design, with covered, narrow flues, have decreased the available nest sites and may be a factor in declining population numbers. For information about a Chimney Swift tower made specifically for nesting swifts, go to the North American Chimney Swift Nest Site Research Project.
Chimney Swifts do not sit on perches like most birds, but instead use their long claws to cling to the walls of chimneys and other vertical surfaces.
Swifts are among the most aerial of birds, flying almost constantly except when at the nest or roosting at night. The Chimney Swift bathes in flight, gliding down to water, smacking the surface with its breast, then bouncing up and shaking the water from its plumage as it flies away.
The Chimney Swift is gregarious, with large numbers of swifts roosting together in a single chimney or air shaft during the nonbreeding season. Nonbreeding swifts will roost together in the summer too, and this behavior has fooled people into thinking that the Chimney Swift nests in colonies. In fact, only one pair nests in a single chimney. The pair may tolerate other swifts roosting in their chimney, though, further confusing people watching the swifts from the ground.
The fast, erratic flight of the Chimney Swift is characteristic of small swifts. It gives the very distinct impression that the swift is beating only one wing at a time, alternating wings. Careful investigation has shown, though, that a swift beats both its wings at the same time just like all other birds. The illusion comes at least in part from the frequent banking and turning.

Call Affordable Chimney Service For Chimney Service Needs (704)526-6348

German Chimney Sweeps Face Loss of Monopoly

2012-04-19T12:45:00.000-07:00

For 70 years, German chimney sweeps have held monopolies in assigned districts, with customers required by law to pay for their services. The sweeps are about to learn if the German government will challenge an EU ruling that the arrangement blocks free trade.

To Germany now, where one of the most secured jobs in the country is about to become a little less so. The German government requires that all households use the services of a chimneysweep. And that's given the sweeps a monopoly on much more than shoveling ashes.

But that's now about to change as NPR's Emily Harris reports from Berlin.

Tom Drust is a third generation chimneysweep, and he's a traditionalist. He really does wear a black top hat to work. Today, he's dropping a metal brush on a rope weighted with a heavy ball down a 200-year-old chimney. And hand over hand, hauling it back up again.

Mr. TOM DRUST (Chimneysweeper, Germany): (Speaking foreign language)

HARRIS: Once is enough for this chimney he says.

Mr. DRUTH: (Through translator) It's not that cold. The woodstoves haven't been burning for very long, and we come regularly.

HARRIS: Regularity is what chimney sweeping is all about in Germany. The government mandates how often chimneys must be cleaned and how often modern heating and ventilating systems must be checked, those jobs are also assigned by law to chimneysweeps. A master sweep is in charge of a district of some 2,000 or more households. Customers may not shop around. This makes safety regulations a lot easier to enforce, says the head of Germany's sweep association, Frank Saber(ph).

Mr. FRANK SABER: In this case, the government has to control about 8,000 companies in Germany. And otherwise, you have to control 80 million people and the heater.

HARRIS: But European Union competition officials call the set-up illegal. Under threat of a lawsuit from Brussels, Berlin is proposing a compromise; keep the districts' monopoly for jobs involving public safety and environmental protection. For other services, homeowners would be allowed to hire any qualified sweeper. That's not enough for homeowner Paul Abahart(ph).

Mr. PAUL ABAHART: (Through translator) Every two years my heating technician checks the system, so all the checking and cleaning that he does has already been done. It's a double service that makes no sense at all.

HARRIS: Chimneysweeps are traditionally seen as bringers of good luck. But a minority of Germans really hates the sweep system. And often hate their assigned chimneysweep.

At a small demonstration on the outskirts of Berlin, they play a song that essentially accuses chimneysweeps of being spies. They say that was the point of Hitler era laws that required sweeps be German and lead an exemplary life.

Those rules were chucked in a 1969 revision, and now sweeps are generally forbidden from sharing personal information about customers. But the obligation to let sweeps in and pay for them riles some people to the extreme. Manfred Rickmirer(ph) has been fighting chimneysweeps for five years.

Mr. MANFRED RICKMIRER: (Through translator) They can check whether people who have a TV actually pay the fees for that, whether people with a dog pay the tax for the dogs, or if a person has an expensive lifestyle that the tax authorities might like to know about. Of course, we can't prove these, but it's possible. It happened in the Third Reich, and the DDR, so why not now?

Mr. DRUST: (Speaking foreign language)

HARRIS: We have nothing to do with spying says sweep Tom Drust. He laughs, ask the elderly owner of a 19th century restaurant, whose chimney Drust has just cleaned, how he feels about sweeps. And he pauses then tells how the original 15th century building here burned down because of a chimney fire.

Chimney Drafting Problems

2012-04-19T12:33:00.003-07:00

Understanding Your Chimney and Drafting

In order to fix a problem, it helps to know a little about how it developed in the first place. There are lots of confusing technical explanations of how chimneys work and how a simple draft problem can result in an uncomfortable living environment. To understand draft problems, you first have to know what draft is. Fireplace drafting is how well your fireplace displaces the products of a fire up the chimney and out into the atmosphere. Drafting problems can cause combustion products to back up and enter your home leaving behind unpleasant and unsafe conditions. If the draft is working correctly, then the harmful gases and smoke from the fire will properly exit through the chimney flue. While there are many factors that can cause draft problems, there are typically simple solutions. The first step is finding the problem in the first place!

How does a chimney work?

Chimneys work within the parameters of the concept that hot air rises. This is the basis for how a chimney works. Also known as the stack effect, this concept is where hot air along with the combustion gases from the fire rises to the top of the chimney and then the area left vacant must be filled with cooler air that will then help the hot air continue its ascent through the chimney flue and out into the environment. When the process works properly, all of the combustion products leave the chimney and none of the gases escape into the room of the home. Problems occur when the hot air wants to leave through the chimney flue but there is negative air pressure in the room and it is prevented from leaving. This causes a back draft in which the air that is meant to leave through the top of the chimney reverses and enters the home instead. When back drafting occurs, this process puts harmful chemicals and soot into the rooms of the home and thus creates a problem.

Draft Factors

A broken or damaged damper can create drafting problems.

There are many elements of a chimney that could be the cause of problems with your fireplace draft. Issues range from a blocked chimney flue to the incorrect firebox size and or installation mishaps. Many times the problem is as simple as a plugged or closed damper or someone intentionally blocked off the chimney flue and forgot about it. Less obvious causes could be a dirty chimney cap, one that does not fit properly or was installed incorrectly, structural damage, other repairs that were not completed correctly or unwanted animals and insects that have picked an inconvenient spot for a home. Problems can also result from a partially closed off chimney flue as a result of creosote (soot) buildup along the chimney walls or spark arrester. This partial blockage is a serious problem because it could also cause chimney fires to take place.

They may be cute, but critters can leave behind a mess of nesting materials that create chimney blockages.

A chimney with a clogged passageway or stopped up chimney cap is similar to a hose with a closed nozzle – the harmful gases cannot get through to the outside so they get backed up into the home instead. Material may be brought into your chimney by nesting animals that can create serious blockages and effect the drafting function of your chimney. Birds, squirrels, raccoons and even insects can decide to make your chimney their summer home. An annual chimney inspection will make sure that no blockages exist in your chimney.

The Firebox

The flue must be an adequate size to match the firebox size.

The firebox can cause two main problems that result in draft issues. The first one is that the firebox and the chimney flue must be the correct ratio to each other in order for the system to work properly. For every 10 square inches of firebox, there should be one square inch of chimney flue to handle the amount of smoke and combustion gases that result from a firebox of that size. If the ratio is incorrect it will most likely result in harmful back up into your home. The second consideration to be made with the firebox is that it should be no more than one inch from the back wall of the chimney. This is because sometimes the smoke and gases from the fire are too close to the front of the firebox to be brought up with the draft and therefore enter into the home this way. To ensure gases do not escape this way in your home, before you start a fire push the fire grate all the way back against the back wall of the fireplace. Also, always ensure your fire is built on top of the fire grate to make sure the fire gets enough oxygen.

Chimney Design

At times the design of the chimney may be a factor in draft problems. While there are many things that can go wrong during the building process, ensuring your fireplace is designed following the fireplace codes will eliminate these concerns. At times an improper firebox to flue ratio will be used, or the fireplace could be manufactured incorrectly. Also, if the firebox is too shallow (less than 20 inches), then smoke and may enter the room without a chance to leave through the appropriate flue. Flue angles can also cause problems because the heat may not produce enough force to leave through a non-vertical passageway through the chimney walls. Chimney caps many times have screens that can become partially blocked with creosote build-up reducing the drafting capability of the flue system.

External Factors

It is also possible that your chimney is working correctly and the problem is coming from the home or the room the fireplace is in instead. The chimney uses the stack effect to function, but if there is another appliance in the room pulling air outside as well, this may cause draft problems as well. For example, an air vent could be the culprit. If an air vent such as a central vacuum, clothes dryer or a forced air furnace is in the same room as the fireplace and they are both working at the same time, this can cause problems as they are both sucking air out of the room. In this case, the fireplace may instead back up and release unwanted smoke into the room instead of dispelling these gases outside.

A new home with tightly sealed walls may also have problems replacing the air that leaves through the top of the chimney. The air that leaves through the top of the chimney along with the gases and smoke must be replaced by something and if the house is too tight and new air cannot be let in, then a back draft will occur. Typically leaving a window open will resolve this problem immediately. Strong wind may also cause similar problems where the smoke may be pushed back down the chimney and into the room and not allowed to exit from the top.

Don’t Burn Green

Burning the correct fuel for your fire is always important, especially to avoid draft problems. If you use green or wet wood, then your fires may not burn hot enough for the air to rise and get replaced by cooler air. This will then cause draft problems and the smoke and gases will not be able to exit the room.

If the problems still persist, here are some measures to take.

1. A good first place to start is to call your local certified chimney sweep. Your chimney inspector will recommend any corrective actions to be taken – the small fee will be well worth the peace of mind this inspection will provide.

2. Before you start the fire, place the metal fire grate as far back against the chimney wall as it will go.

3. Purchase and utilize a protective metal screen to shield your hearth form flying sparks and embers.

4. Check to make sure that your damper is open when the fireplace is in use.

5. Turn off all other air vents in the same room as the fireplace when it is in use.

6. If your home is less than 25 years old, open a window when a fire is going in case the home is sealed too tightly.

7. For a more drastic measure, increase the height of the chimney to get more draft. This is not always an appropriate fix as there is a limit to this as frictional forces may hinder the amount of height you can add.

While you may figure out how to alleviate most of the excess smoke in your home on your own, because of the heath affects associated with a back draft it is always advised to still consult your chimney professional to ensure your home is safe. With your new expertise on chimneys and how to prevent harmful combustion gases from entering your home you no longer have to worry when you start a fire. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the soothing crackle of the fire.