The Wright Chimney Sweep - FAQs about Chimneys

Chimney Sweep 101

Do I Have to Get My Chimney Cleaned Every Year?

Chimneys should be inspected annually and cleaned as needed per National Fire Protection Association Code 211. The NFPA Code 211 states that "Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances. Cleaning, maintenance, and repairs shall be done if necessary."

If your chimney or heating appliance and venting system is not functioning properly, there is an increased risk for serious damage to the home, as well as the potential to compromise the health of the family (and pets) living inside the home.

Our chimney sweeps at Wright's are certified by the National Fireplace Institute and use video-scan cameras on every inspection and cleaning.

Wright's Wood-Burning Tip: Use hardwoods that have been seasoned (split and covered for at least a full calendar year) to lessen the amount of potential creosote buildup in your chimney.

I Have a Gas Unit - Do I Need a Chimney Cleaning or a Gas Service?

If your gas unit is inserted into a chimney (such as gas logs or a gas insert), your chimney may not need to be swept every year like a wood-burning chimney would. However, gas-burning systems need to be inspected annually to ensure everything is functioning properly and to prevent the danger of gas leaking back into your home. Our gas technicians check the unit, venting components, gas connection, and perform a gas service if it is needed.

What Are the Signs of a Chimney Fire?

Chimney fires occur when creosote (highly-flammable byproduct of burning wood) ignites in chimneys that have not been cleaned as needed, that are improperly installed, or have existing damage or deterioration that has not been addressed.

Chimney fires can act differently based on the state of the chimney itself, but most chimney fires start with a loud, roaring noise accompanied by sparks, flames, or thick, black smoke pouring from the top of the chimney.

If you are unsure whether you've had a chimney fire, do not use the chimney until The Wright Chimney Sweep has inspected it and written a formal report for your records. Chimney fires can cause damage to the interior lining (the flue) of the chimney and to adjacent objects. This damage compromises the safety of the system and allows toxic carbon monoxide to enter the home.

What is the Purpose of a Chimney Cap?

Chimney caps are raised covers for the top of a chimney (for any fuel type) that prevent the elements and debris (twigs, birds, critters) from getting into your chimney. Wright's carries single-flue, multi-flue and custom chimney caps & chimney cap/damper combos in a variety of finishes. The most popular chimney cap finish is stainless steel, followed by painted black steel, then copper, aluminum and galvanized. Chimney caps commonly have "spark arrestors," which is a mesh barrier covering the side of the cap to prevent sparks from landing on your roof.

1. Keep moisture out – A chimney cap will keep rain water from coming down your home’s chimney. Rain water can damage chimneys with stainless steel liners, chimney dampers and chimney mortar joints. Beyond the damage from the water itself, moisture from rain water can produce mold and mildew.

2. Keep out animal invaders – Animals like birds, raccoons and squirrels often try to make their homes within chimneys. In many cases, these animals will enter the chimney but won’t be able to exit, eventually dying. This can produce maggots, flies and unpleasant odors in your home. A professionally installed chimney cap sized properly will prevent animals from entering the chimney.

3. Prevent wind-induced downdrafts – If the wind is blowing in a certain direction, it can introduce a downdraft. If you don’t have a chimney cap and you’re using a wood-burning fireplace at the time, a wind-induced downdraft has the potential of blowing smoke back into your home. The flat-shaped top of a chimney cap is designed to help prevent wind-induced downdrafts.

4. Prevent sparks and embers – Some people refer to chimney caps as spark arrestors, which basically means that the chimney cap helps prevent lit embers or sparks that travel up the chimney from landing on roof, possibly catching it on fire.

5. Prevent debris build-up – Leaves, branches, twigs and other debris can enter a chimney and build up if a chimney cap is not in place.

Have a Question for The Wright Chimney Sweep?

If you don't see your question answered here, please contact us by calling (828) 684-1535, visiting one of our showrooms, or emailing us through the contact page of this website. If you are interested in scheduling a chimney sweep or gas service, please call 828-684-1535 and speak with one of Wright's finest.

828-684-1535

Wright's services the majority of WNC. Contact us to see if you are within our service area.

2614 Hendersonville Rd

Arden, NC 28704