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Chimney Preparation for Winter

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As cold weather approaches, one thing many homeowners can look forward to is putting their fireplace to good use, warming themselves and their families after long day s out in the cold. More than likely, your fireplace has not been used as frequently throughout the warmer months, so make sure you take the necessary precautions before burning again on a regular basis. Taking these steps will ensure that your chimney is in proper working order and that your family is safe throughout the season.

Get a Professional Inspection

Chimney Preparation for Winter - Gloucester VA - Olde Town SweepsOne of the most stressed things in the chimney and fireplace world is the importance of regular cleanings and inspections done by professionals. There are always many do-it-yourself options for checking up on your chimney’s health, but codes are updated so regularly that having a certified expert come to your home is truly the safest option for your home and family. You never know what you may be missing or what hidden repairs will be necessary before the burning season, and not getting inspected will put both your home and family at an increased risk for harm.

Check Smoke Detectors

Make sure your home is equipped with both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and that they are located close to the fireplace. Regularly check the batteries on all of these devices and test them to ensure that they are in proper working order. With more frequent fireplace use and a lower likelihood of proper ventilation (as many close doors and windows throughout the winter months), these devices help to ensure that the air in your home is clean and not damaging your family’s health and well-being.

Plan for Bad Weather

Fireplaces places offer a great back-up for when the lights go out and the heat is not working due to the nasty winter weather outdoors. With colder months soon approaching, have a plan laid out for when this weather hits and be sure to regularly check up on the weather forecast so that you are adequately prepared.

Consider buying a log holder that you can place directly next to your fireplace, in case you need to get a fire going quickly. Also, ensuring that you have all of the proper tools needed to start and maintain a strong fire through any winter storm will make your life easier in the long run, as well as ensure that your home is properly heated when electricity is not an option.

Stock Up On Fuel

Part of being prepared for the winter months is making sure that your fuel supply is well-kept and properly stocked ahead of time. You will want to check that any wood you are using is properly seasoned and has been dried out for at least six months, to ensure easy burning. Look for something light weight, darker, and split when picking out wood.

Call the certified professionals at Olde Town Chimney Sweeps (804-693-2859) today to get inspected and allow yourself peace of mind before the cold weather hits.