Since autumn is just around the corner, you can expect the temperature to get colder and colder in the upcoming weeks. Sooner than you might expect, you’ll have to start using your fireplace. Make sure you don’t encounter the following problems:
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
Cracks on the chimney’s crown
Atop your chimney sits the chimney crown. You likely pay little attention to it, but it serves an important function. They help keep the chimney from the wearing effects of harsh weather. One of the problems that causes chimney crowns to become cracked is freeze-thaw damage, specifically in the winter months if you use your fireplace regularly. The drastic change in temperature causes the snow or ice to melt and then refreeze once your fireplace cools, resulting in cracks to the concrete. This is more common in older homes, as many chimneys now use freeze-thaw resistant concrete.
To protect your chimney crown, invest in a concrete chimney sealer to help protect it from the elements. This is a DIY project that takes a nice day and an afternoon to complete. If you have damage to your chimney crown, you’ll need to get that fixed before sealing your chimney. Source: ImproveNet
Fumes entering the room
Fumes containing carbon monoxide (CO) are dangerous and capable of killing. Even lower levels of CO concentration can cause dizziness, mental confusion, severe headaches, nausea, and fainting. Many times, a leak in the vent will send fumes all over the house. This requires the immediate attention of a qualified technician. Source: HomeQuicks
Too much fuel consumption
If your flue is large and not insulated well, it will need a lot of heat and fuel to draw. Modern and high-efficiency appliances have a small outlet pipe for fumes. If the fumes are released into a larger flue, the rise can be slowed down not allowing the appliance to draw. The correct size flue will make sure an acceptable daught is made to burn as their designers wanted. The height of the fireplace opening is critical. Source: DoItYourself
Why not be proactive and have your chimneys checked before the temperature starts to fall. Call us for an appointment!
Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8279 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4W1
(604) 360-2114
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