Spring cleaning has become a cultural tradition in America and it’s not just shampooing your carpets. Spring is the time to clean your house, car, garage. It’s when families catch up on auto and lawn maintenance, taking care of all the annual TO DOs that can get in the way if they’re overlooked. This is the perfect time to take care of your chimney and fireplace, so make sure it’s on your TO DO list.

Annual Maintenance

The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends annual CSIA chimney inspections along with regular chimney sweeps to maintain the highest levels of safety and efficiency for your chimney system. An inspection gives a certified expert the opportunity to catch chimney issues before it results in catastrophic damage. By scheduling this maintenance in the spring you can rest assured that your chimney is able to withstand spring rain, summer humidity, and ready for burn season in the fall. Additionally, if your technician does find a problem with your chimney, there will be plenty of time to make necessary repairs in time for fall.

Schedule an inspection with RMR and let a chimney expert assess all of your chimney’s parts. While you’re at it you can schedule a chimney sweep. Having your chimney swept in the spring will clean it of soot, creosote, and other debris which if left in the chimney can create foul odors that can permeate your house. A clean chimney is a ready chimney—ready for warm weather, and ready for cold weather.

Preventative Maintenance

Maybe you already had your chimney inspected and cleaned as part of your New Year routine. Or maybe in addition to spring chimney maintenance you want to give it a little added protection. Qualified chimney professionals offer preventative services that can save you in extreme repair costs and insurance claims later.

RMR can waterproof your chimney by:

  • Installing a properly-fitting chimney cap
  • Repairing or replacing the chimney crown
  • Repairing mortar joints and spalling bricks
  • Installing or repairing chimney flashing
  • Installing a cricket
  • Applying waterproof industrial sealant

The chimney is constructed to be porous, allowing vapors to escape easily. Industry professionals have created a sealant that prevents water from penetrating the masonry, but continues to allow the vapors to escape. This waterproofing sealant should be professionally applied, just as every other preventative measure should be. Only a chimney expert knows the climate, is experienced with local safety codes, and has the extensive training and expertise to get the job done right and save you money in the long run.

Call RMR today at (847) 290-1883 or request an estimate online at your convenience.