Chimney & Fireplace Work
Name | License No | Phone No |
Winston’s Chimney Service | #70106887 | 301-703-3309 |
High’s Chimney Service Inc. | #39200628 | 301-202-3617 |
Airwiz Clean Air | Contact | 301-560-6213 |
Potomac Services | Contact | 301-232-5787 |
A fireplace is typically the centerpiece of the room and often where folks will gather when the temperature drops. Without proper maintenance, however, a chimney can go from cozy to dangerous. Proper cleaning and a bit of knowledge in your informational arsenal will help keep that hearth inviting (and safe).
Chimney Cleaning in a Nutshell
A chimney should we swept and cleaned regularly to ensure proper removal of creosote, the byproduct produced by wood-burning. As the creosote and smoke travel up the chimney, some of the highly combustible creosote collects on the insides of the chimney, and over some time, the buildup can create a fire hazard. The National Fireplace Institute and the Chimney Safety Institute say a fireplace should be swept when the creosote reaches one-eighth of an inch of buildup. A chimney fire burns very hot, and its flames can extend ten feet above the top of the chimney. They are especially dangerous because they can quickly spread to the roof, the attic, or other wood around the chimney and ultimately destroy the entire house. If a chimney fire starts, get everyone out of the house as quickly as possible and call911. Now that you’re aware of how to properly care for your chimney, however, the less likely there will be creosote build-up and a resulting fire hazard.
Chimney Inspections
The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommend that homeowners have their chimneys cleaned and inspected annually by a professional chimney sweep. Discuss with the professional what level of inspection will be right for you.