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Leave it to Professionals Some so-called chimney sweeps' only qualifications are a few brushes, a vacuum, and a ladder. You don't want those amateurs working on your home, and you definitely don't want your family's safety in their untrained hands. Maintaining your home's chimney is a job for chimney professionals. Middletown Chimney will send expert team to your home. We don't hire novices. All of our skilled chimney pros are nationally certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. That means they:
Middletown professionals bring years of experience and training, not just brushes. Count on us for a long list of chimney services. Chimney Sweeping Regular chimney sweeping by Middleton removes dangerous and highly flammable creosote deposits from inside your chimney. Creosote is a natural byproduct of burning wood, particularly unseasoned wood, that can accumulate inside your chimney's flue. Hot air or cinders can ignite a chimney fire if they come into contact with these flammable creosote deposits. The rate of creosote build-up, and therefore how often your chimney needs sweeping, varies. Depending on the kind of wood you burn, how often you use your fireplace, and the type of fireplace you have, we might recommend you clean your chimney every month or every year. At a minimum, you should clean your chimney every year before the start of winter burning season. In addition, we suggest calling us for additional cleanings when more than 1/8” to 1/4” of creosote builds up inside your flue. Our sweeping services will help you avoid a dangerous and potentially devastating chimney fire. Chimney Repairs Your chimney has two big jobs to do.
If your chimney is in poor condition, noxious carbon monoxide might escape into your home or heat might ignite its wooden framing materials. Middletown offers a wide range of repair services to get any chimney, even fire-damaged chimneys, up-to-code quickly and affordably. Masonry RepairsThe bricks and mortar of your chimney endure some harsh outdoor conditions, especially here in Kentucky. The same freezing and thawing that cracks sidewalks and breeds potholes, also does a number on your chimney. E&E can assess and repair any problems with your chimney's masonry, including:
TuckpointingWater damage and age can cause the mortar that holds your chimney together to crack and crumble. Without supporting mortar, bricks begin to sag and loosen. Unless old mortar is replaced, you could be in for falling bricks and pricey repairs down the road. E&E can help by tuckpointing your chimney, a process in which we replace deteriorated mortar and with fresh, new mortar. A relatively inexpensive process, tuckpointing today can help you prevent more serious masonry problems in the future. Crown RepairsThe top of your chimney – its cement crown and the first few layers of bricks – bears nature's worst. A cracked or damaged crown lets water seep into your masonry and liner. Over time, that uninvited water can lead to major repairs. Middletown professionals can inspect your chimney's crown for damage, and make any necessary repairs before a little moisture becomes a big problem. Chimney Inspection Industry experts recommend an annual chimney inspection to make sure your fireplace or stove and chimney are working safely. The fall, just before the winter burning season, is a good time to call us for a routine assessment. Every time Middletown professionals inspect or service your chimney, they'll:
Worried about serious problems or planning major renovations to your chimney? We can conduct a more intensive inspection. Our chimney sweeps conduct both inspections according to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards. ReliningCracked chimney liners, decayed by flue fumes and acid buildup, can leak harmful gas into your home. Relining can make your home safer, not to mention more valuable. When is it time to reline your chimney?
Middletown can help you determine if relining is right for your chimney.
Not sure which approach is best for your chimney's unique challenges? Give us a call; we'll help you choose the right relining solution. WaterproofingBricks and mortar naturally absorb water, and can become even more porous as they age. We've even seen chimneys so severely damaged that water soaks through the masonry and ends up in the firebox. That's why we suggest waterproofing to protect masonry chimneys from the damaging effects of rain, as well as freeze and thaw cycles. Middletown waterproofing treatments give your chimney a lasting shield against the elements. In addition to waterproofing, you might consider installing a chimney cap to guard the top of your chimney from rain, debris, and curious critters. Middletown installs a wide selection of stainless steel and copper chimney caps, all with a lifetime warranty.
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