Animals in Your Chimney? How Chimney Caps Keep Them Out
Scratching in the walls, chirping from the fireplace or a strange smell in the living room can all mean the same thing: something has moved into your chimney. In Connecticut, with its wooded neighborhoods and plenty of wildlife, animals in chimneys are a common spring and fall problem. Here is what typically ends up in […]
Chimney Waterproofing: Does It Work and When Do You Need It?
Water is the biggest long-term threat to a masonry chimney. It does more damage than fire, age or most anything else. That is why chimney waterproofing gets a lot of attention. But is it worth it, how does it work, and when does it actually help? Here is a straightforward guide. Why chimneys need protection […]
Creosote Buildup: The 3 Stages and Why They Matter
If you burn wood, your chimney collects creosote. There is no way around it. The question is how much, what kind, and whether it is being removed before it becomes a hazard. Creosote is the leading fuel for chimney fires, and understanding it is one of the best things a wood-burning homeowner can do for […]
Why Your Chimney Leaks in Winter
A chimney that seemed fine all fall can suddenly start leaking in January. You might see water dripping into the firebox, a brown stain spreading on the ceiling next to the chimney, or damp drywall in the attic. Winter leaks are frustrating because they often appear after a storm or during a thaw, then seem […]
