How a Fence Company Can Enhance the Curb Appeal of Your Home

by Posted in Fencing Services Tagged , , , , , ,

A fence can help obstruct prying eyes and annoyances from outside your home, as well as keep pets and kids safe. It also adds value to your property and increases security.

Fence Company

Some fencing materials may require regular maintenance to extend their lifespan. For example, steel fences may rust if not properly treated with protective coatings. Contact Charlotte Fence Company for professional help.

A quality fence is more than just a property boundary; it enhances the curb appeal of your home. In order to install a fence that will last, it is important to use the right materials and follow proper installation techniques. A reputable fence company can offer insights into the best options for your home and provide expert installation services. In addition to their experience, a fence company can save you time by handling the planning and obtaining necessary approvals for your project.

A fence company’s installation process begins with a meeting to discuss your goals for the project. They will learn about your needs, preferences, and budget to design a fence that meets your expectations. They will also review local zoning regulations and homeowners’ association rules regarding fencing construction. This is a critical step that often requires the help of a professional to ensure compliance with all guidelines and to avoid costly fines.

Once the fence style and material are selected, they will prepare the work site by clearing the area of vegetation and debris. They will then dig post holes and set the posts. This is a crucial step that requires careful attention to detail to ensure the posts are securely set and properly aligned. Using a level to ensure the posts are straight and in the correct position will add to the structural integrity of the fence.

Next, the fence company will secure the bottom rail to the posts with a power drill or hammer. They will make sure the bottom rail is parallel to the ground and evenly spaced across the entire length of the fence. They will then use a level to ensure that the top rail is perfectly parallel with the bottom rail, guaranteeing stability and a uniform appearance for your fence.

Once the fence is firmly in place, they will add any finishing touches such as caps on the posts or decorative elements. After the job is complete, the final bill will be issued. It is essential to hire a reputable fence company that is certified and bonded to work on your home. This certification provides you with peace of mind that they have the skills and training to work safely and effectively on your property.

Maintenance

A fence is a crucial asset to any residential or commercial property, whether it’s a beautiful cedar gate protecting the entrance of a luxurious home or a sturdy chain-link structure safeguarding a large industrial site. Regardless of its style, however, any fence requires regular maintenance to ensure it continues serving its intended purpose.

Fences are exposed to harsh weather elements, from rain and snow to sunlight and wind. This exposure causes them to deteriorate over time. Minor issues like rust or rot left untreated can quickly escalate into costly repairs and even structural damage. Regular maintenance, such as staining or painting, can prevent this deterioration and help your fence last longer.

The process of maintaining a fence can vary depending on the material it is made from, as well as the climate where you live. For example, wood fences require more attention than vinyl ones. Wood fences are particularly susceptible to moisture damage, which can lead to rotting and other problems. Moisture penetration is also a problem for metal fences, as it accelerates the corrosion process. Regular inspections and proper maintenance can prevent this from happening, so be sure to check for signs of moisture permeation such as stains and discoloration on the surface.

In addition to preventing damage, regular maintenance can protect your investment. Fences are not cheap, and taking care of yours will help extend its lifespan and protect the money you initially invested in it. It is also a good idea to regularly inspect your fence for pest infestations, as these can be extremely damaging to the integrity of your fencing.

Regular fence maintenance can also improve your curb appeal and make your backyard more appealing to visitors and potential buyers. If your fence is in need of repair or is outdated, consider investing in a new one that will complement the style of your home and increase its value. A well-maintained fence is a sign of pride, and your neighbors will be more likely to respect and value your property as well. If you’re thinking about selling your house in the future, a well-maintained fence can add a significant amount of equity to the resale price.

Curb appeal

When it comes to curb appeal, the first impression your home makes is crucial. A well-maintained landscape, a welcoming entrance, and attractive house colors all add to the overall value of your property. The fence is another element of your home that can greatly affect its appearance and create a positive first impression. While fences are traditionally seen as practical elements that define boundaries and provide security, a thoughtfully designed and carefully installed fence can elevate your home’s aesthetic. Whether you’re looking for a white picket fence, a sleek metal design, or something more modern and sophisticated, there are many options available to suit your aesthetic preferences and complement your home’s architecture.

A fence company can help you improve your home’s curb appeal by enhancing the aesthetic and ensuring the safety of your family and guests. Their skilled professionals will consider your property’s layout and architectural style when designing a custom fence that will compliment your home. They will also ensure that the materials and construction methods used will be durable and long-lasting.

In addition to improving your home’s visual appeal, a fence company can also boost its value by increasing the amount of privacy and security it provides. This is particularly important if you live in an area with high crime rates or a neighborhood with a lot of foot traffic. A good fence will help deter unwanted guests and reduce the risk of theft or property damage.

Curb appeal is the attractiveness of a property, as viewed from the street, and it embodies the first impression that a homeowner or business owner makes on visitors or potential customers. It encompasses a wide range of factors, including landscaping, front porch decor and lighting, house numbers, and, notably, fencing.

In a real estate market that is becoming increasingly competitive, the impact of curb appeal cannot be overstated. Studies show that homes with a higher level of curb appeal are more likely to sell quickly and at a premium price. The best way to increase your home’s curb appeal is through regular maintenance and updates. Fortunately, these efforts can be affordable and simple with the help of a fence company.

Noise insulation

Noise pollution is a serious problem that can cause stress, sleep disturbance, and hearing loss. A fence can serve as a barrier against unwanted noise, helping you enjoy your garden or backyard without being disturbed. However, it’s important to keep in mind that a fence alone may not be enough to block noise completely. You’ll also need to take other measures, including combining them with landscaping elements and regular maintenance to create a peaceful outdoor environment.

The first step in constructing a soundproof fence is to assess the level and type of noise you want to reduce. This can be done by using a sound meter or checking online maps and websites that show average noise levels in specific neighborhoods and areas. This will help you plan your fence construction and determine which material would work best for your needs.

Metal fences are often effective at reducing noise because of their density and weight. They can be built as the primary structure or added to existing fences to improve their noise-reducing capabilities. A metal fence that is layered with corrugated acoustic foam can be particularly effective at blocking noise. However, it’s crucial to inspect your fence regularly for damage, cracks, and leaks as these will impact its ability to reduce noise.

A wood fence can offer some degree of noise reduction, especially if it’s planted with thick foliage like trees or hedges. However, these aren’t as effective at reducing high-frequency noises such as engine and exhaust sounds or music systems. You’ll likely need a specialist acoustic membrane to reduce these types of noises.

Another option is to add sound-proofing materials to your fence, such as sound blankets or mass-loaded vinyl. These are effective because they absorb and dissipate noise rather than reflecting it. However, these materials must be added between layers of your fence and may require renovations to install.

What to Expect From a Car Repair Shop

by Posted in Car Services Tagged , , , , ,

Performing regular inspections and promptly addressing problems can save you money and prevent costly repairs. Look for a shop that has a strong team of service advisors who are knowledgeable, friendly and customer-focused.

Car Repair

Look for shops that provide written estimates of parts and labor before beginning work. Compare the repair shop’s maintenance schedule with those recommended in your owner’s manual. Visit https://www.revtechautorepairsanclemente.com/ to learn more.

The engine is the central component of your vehicle that converts fuel into mechanical motion by internal combustion. The combustion process uses air, fuel and spark plugs to produce a controlled explosion that moves pistons up and down within the cylinders. These pistons generate the power that drives your vehicle’s transmission and wheels.

During the course of normal use, your vehicle’s engine can develop issues that require repair. If these issues are left untreated, they may worsen and lead to costly damage. Luckily, there are many preventative measures you can take to help your car maintain its optimal performance and longevity.

Regular maintenance and timely repairs are key to extending the life of your vehicle’s engine. These services include flushing and refilling the cooling system, replacing air filters, lubricating the moving parts of the engine, examining and replacing belts and hoses, inspecting and replacing spark plugs, and more. These routine services can help keep your engine in good working condition and improve overall performance, gas mileage, and resale value.

The most common auto engine issues demand immediate attention. For example, excessive exhaust smoke is one of the most obvious signs that your vehicle needs repairs. This issue is caused by poor engine seals that compromise lubrication. In turn, this can lead to overheating and excessive wear. Another common issue is oil leaks. When left unattended, these can cause severe damage by affecting lubrication and cooling systems.

Another major issue is a damaged crankshaft or connecting rod bearings. These are a part of the engine that transfers the pistons’ up and down movements into the rotary motion needed to drive the wheels. They are lubricated by the engine oil, which is why it’s essential to change the oil on time and to check the octane rating as per the owner’s manual.

When your vehicle’s engine begins to show significant signs of wear and tear, you must decide whether or not to repair the problem with new or used parts or opt for a remanufactured replacement. Remanufactured engines are usually backed by warranties, providing an additional level of security and peace of mind. They also tend to offer better efficiency and reliability compared to repaired or replaced engines.

Brake Repair

The braking system is the single most important safety system in your car. If you notice a grinding or bumpy sensation when braking, or your car pulls to one side, it’s time for a brake repair. A thorough brake job includes replacing the pads and shoes and resurfacing or replacing the rotors, as well as flushing and refilling the brake fluid. Your service professional will check the master cylinder and brake lines for leaks as well.

Brake repair is a high-quality job that should be done correctly to ensure your safety. If the service professional you choose does not use a quality pad, or uses an improperly installed brake shoe, the friction between the brake shoe and the drum could cause damage to the wheel bearings and axle. This can be very expensive to repair.

Having your brakes repaired by a qualified professional is also very important to maintain the warranty on the new pads and rotors. Taking the rotors and brakes apart yourself will almost certainly void any warranty that you have on these components, which can cost you a lot of money down the road.

Most people know that their brakes should be checked when they hear a squeal, but there are many other warning signs that should not be ignored. Your service professional can help you understand what these signs mean and will perform a 23-point inspection of the entire braking system.

Some people think you are trying to rip them off when you recommend replacement of various parts in the brake system. But the truth is that you can’t — or shouldn’t — replace your brakes, rotors or calipers until they are at or near the end of their service life.

It’s also important to note that your brake system is a complex and interrelated set of systems. Putting in new brake pads without resurfacing or replacing the rotors will result in uneven and premature wear of the pads. Many technicians will also recommend that you replace the caliper and wheel cylinder piston seals as part of a complete brake job. These seals can be subject to rapid, extreme wear due to excessive slamming of the brake pedal by inattentive drivers or even just the normal operation of the vehicle.

Transmission Repair

The transmission is responsible for shifting gears in your car, so when it starts acting up, you need to take your vehicle in for a repair ASAP. A skilled mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and determine whether you need a transmission repair, rebuild or replacement.

A transmission rebuild is typically the cheapest option, but only if the original unit can still be saved. The process involves draining the fluid, disassembling the entire transmission, and inspecting every single part for damage or wear. The faulty parts are then replaced with new ones, and the transmission is reassembled. This is also a good time to replace any gaskets and seals that are showing signs of wear.

If a rebuild isn’t possible, replacing your transmission may be the only choice. This is especially true if your transmission has high mileage and has been in service for a long time. It is also worth noting that older models are more likely to need a transmission replacement than newer vehicles. This is because the manufacturer may have stopped producing parts for your specific model, which means you’ll need to get a used or aftermarket transmission.

The cost of a transmission repair or replacement can vary considerably, depending on the make and model of your vehicle, the severity of the damage, and how well it was maintained. Sticking to your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule can greatly reduce the risk of damage and repair costs, as it will help to keep your engine running smoothly, your transmission functioning properly, and your vehicle in good condition.

If you have a mechanical issue with your transmission, the first thing you should do is check the transmission fluid level. You can do this by locating the dipstick, which is typically sticking up out of the transmission or transaxle, toward the back of the vehicle. The dipstick should be a pinkish-red color and should have a “Full” line on it. If the fluid is dark or smells burnt, it’s definitely time to bring your car in for repair. Similarly, unexpected mechanical noises like whines and clunking are a sure sign that something is amiss.

Air Conditioning Repair

The air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your car and it must be inspected and maintained regularly to ensure optimal performance. A professional auto mechanic can inspect your vehicle and determine whether repairs are necessary. They can also check your air filter to make sure it is clean and free of debris. If the air filter is dirty, it can cause the air conditioning to run less efficiently. The shop should replace the air filter with a new one, if needed, and charge you accordingly.

Repairing your vehicle is a significant investment, and you deserve to be treated fairly. Before you choose a shop, ask for recommendations from friends and family members who have had positive experiences with local repair centers. You can also read online reviews and ratings to help you gauge the quality of work performed by different shops. You should also look for a repair center that employs ASE-certified technicians, as this is a good indication of their qualifications and expertise.

In addition to obtaining referrals, you should always get a written estimate before you approve any repair work. The written estimate should identify the condition to be repaired, the parts needed, and the estimated labor cost. It should also state that the shop will contact you for approval before they do any additional work above the initial estimate.

If you have a problem with a repair, try to resolve it with the shop owner or manager first. Many disputes can be resolved with a calm, honest discussion. However, if you cannot reach an agreement, you can file a complaint with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

DMV will attempt to resolve your dispute through mediation. If they are unable to resolve your problem, they may refer your case to a DMV inspector who will review the details of your case.

If the inspector believes that the shop violated California law, they will notify you of their findings and recommend a remedy. The inspector will also send a copy of the report to the repair shop. If the repair shop is found to have violated the law, they may be subject to penalties such as fines or suspension of their license.

Why Trenchless Sewer Line Repair Is Less Expensive Than Traditional Excavating

by Posted in Plumbing Tagged , , , ,

Sewer line repairs and replacements are significant undertakings that require precision, expertise and the right set of tools. The wrong tool can make a simple task more difficult or even impossible, leading to costly delays or mistakes that can cost you more in the long run.

Sewer Line

When looking for a reputable pro, consider their credentials, pricing and reviews. Then, get detailed quotes from multiple professionals. Visit https://utahpowerplumbers.com/ to learn more.

The sewer line that runs from your home or small business to the public utility connection is a vitally important part of your plumbing system. It transports sewage and waste from the structure to the public line, so when it gets damaged or clogged, the results can be catastrophic.

The cost of sewer line repair varies based on the severity of the damage and the method used to fix it. The average cost of traditional sewer line repairs is $2,449 (HomeAdvisor). However, there are options available that may help reduce the total cost.

If your sewer line is clogged with solid debris that a plumber can remove with a drain auger or power rodding, it’s likely that only the impacted section of pipe needs to be replaced. In this scenario, the cost of the repair will be lower than replacing an entire section of pipe.

On the other hand, if your entire sewer line is completely destroyed by a broken or collapsed pipe, it will be much more expensive to replace the entire line. This is because the repair technician will have to dig up the entire yard and landscape around your property to access and install the new pipe.

Another factor that impacts the cost of a sewer repair is how far away your home or business is from the public utility connection. The distance will determine how much digging is necessary to access the damaged line and complete the repair. Then there are the materials that need to be used, which can add up quickly.

Most plumbing companies will offer a flat rate for their services, but it’s important to research your options before hiring anyone. Make sure to read reviews from past clients and request multiple bids to compare pricing. While price should be a consideration, you don’t want to hire someone that will cut corners or use inferior parts to save money. A good plumber will treat your sewer line with the care and attention it deserves. This is especially important if you’re considering selling your property in the future. A well-maintained sewer line will prevent costly repairs and will make your property more appealing to buyers.

Repair Options

When your sewer line is damaged, it can cause major problems for your home. The resulting backups and flooding can cause significant water damage and create a health hazard for you and your family. Fortunately, there are a variety of repair options available to you. These methods are less invasive than traditional excavation and can save you thousands in repairs.

One common option for sewer line repair is to use a pipe lining technique. These techniques eliminate the need for digging and replace the damaged section of pipe with a new, durable liner. The best types of liners are made from polyethylene or other long-lasting plastic materials that can withstand corrosion, rust, and freezing. The liner will also close any gaps or breaks in the existing pipes.

Other repair options include slip lining, which is used to fix minor leaks. The slip liner is placed in the pipe and inflated with air, which helps it conform to the inside of the pipe. It is then cured with hot steam, which seals the liner in place. It is important to note that this method may not be effective for fixing larger cracks or breaks in the pipe.

Cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining is another method of trenchless sewer line repair that can replace the entire length of the damaged sewer line. This process requires two access points for inserting the lining material, which is typically a woven fabric liner that is impregnated with epoxy. The liner is then inserted into the existing pipeline and pulled in place, sealing any cracks or gaps.

Traditional sewer line replacement involves digging up the entire pipe and removing it, which is often more expensive than other repair methods. However, it is the most effective way to ensure that you have a high-quality, durable sewer line.

When you suspect that your sewer lines are clogged or damaged, contact a professional plumber for help. They can perform a sewer camera inspection to pinpoint the problem area and recommend the best course of action. While a broken sewer line can be a huge hassle, you should never try to handle it on your own. A professional can help you avoid costly repairs and prevent future issues.

Trenchless Repairs

If you are thinking of repairing or replacing your sewer line, consider trenchless options instead of traditional methods. Trenchless repair techniques are less expensive and minimize damage to your property. They also save you the cost of restoring your lawn, driveways, and other items that must be moved or replaced when digging for conventional pipe repair. There are two primary types of trenchless sewer repairs: pipe lining and pipe bursting.

Both processes begin with a camera inspection of the affected area of the sewer line. This helps plumbers identify the problem and determine the best method for addressing it. Once the camera inspection is complete, the next step is to clean the existing pipes. This ensures that the epoxy resin used in pipe lining adheres properly to the walls of the old pipe and seals any cracks or leaks.

Once the pipes are cleaned, the technician prepares them for the liner insertion process. The liner is inserted into the existing pipe, creating a “pipe within a pipe” solution to your problem. This can be done for most pipes, including clay, concrete, and PVC. In some cases, however, the pipes may be unsalvageable and a replacement will be necessary.

The final step is the completion of the new pipe installation. Once the new liner has been inserted, the plumber will inflate it and use heat to cure it into place. Once the sleeve is in place, you will have a new and improved pipe that solves your sewer line problem for good.

Both trenchless methods of repair can be completed in just one day, minimizing the amount of time you must go without using your water system. Moreover, these methods are far less damaging to your home and yard than conventional excavation, which can cause weeks of disruption and cost you thousands in restoration expenses.

Trenchless repairs are a great choice for most situations, but if your pipes are near a road or other busy location, it may be more cost-effective to opt for traditional dig and repair methods. Regardless of your situation, it is always best to consult with a professional plumber familiar with both traditional and trenchless technology to ensure that you are getting the most effective service for your needs.

Replacement

When a sewer line is damaged beyond repair by either age or a severe blockage, replacement may be needed. While replacing a sewer line will cost more than fixing small cracks or leaks, it can save homeowners money in the long run by minimizing the need for expensive repairs and by reducing ongoing maintenance costs. Plus, newer pipes typically have better flow capacity, a lower risk of clogs, and can increase a home’s resale value.

A qualified plumber will be able to assess the situation and provide recommendations for the best option. In general, replacing a damaged line will involve digging a trench, removing the old pipe and installing a new one. This can be more costly than trenchless repair methods.

In addition to a skilled plumbing crew, the proper equipment is also crucial for a successful project. For example, a video inspection camera can help pinpoint the source of a problem and speed up repairs by eliminating the guesswork that comes with digging.

Professional sewer contractors have the experience, specialized equipment and warranties to ensure the job is done right, safely and in compliance with all local regulations. They can even help homeowners get the most out of their insurance coverage to minimize the cost. When choosing a sewer contractor, request at least three price estimates to compare prices and services offered.

Using the proper tools and equipment is also important to avoid damage to your yard, driveway or sidewalk. Some common mistakes include using metal snips that can cause holes in the pipe or leaving gaps where water and sewage leak out. The use of heavy-duty plastic pipes can prevent damage and is usually more cost-effective than metal pipes.

The most important thing you can do to prevent sewer line problems is to have your lines regularly inspected and to be proactive about making any necessary repairs. A professional can identify and repair minor issues before they turn into more significant problems and help you plan for future replacement when the time comes.

In some cases, it may be possible to make spot repairs or reroute a drain to bypass a damaged section of the line. You can reduce the risk of costly repairs and pipe failure by avoiding common mistakes like dumping debris in the wrong place, flushing things that shouldn’t be in your pipes (even those “flushable” wet wipes), and having trees planted too close to the sewer line.

Some Common Chimney Repair Issues

by Posted in Chimney Tagged , , ,

The fireplace is an essential home feature that adds comfort, ambiance, and warmth to the living space. It also helps keep toxic gases like carbon monoxide out of the house. Moisture is the chimney’s worst enemy. It can cause many issues that can be costly to repair.

Stains are a sign of moisture problems, and white staining on the chimney is known as efflorescence. A professional Chimney Repair Charleston SC company can remove these stains and keep the chimney structurally sound.

chimney repair

Worn Mortar Joints

A chimney is the unsung hero of your home, bringing you warmth, comfort, and that unmistakable cozy ambiance. Like any home feature, though, it needs to be carefully maintained and inspected regularly so that it can continue to do its job safely. While some chimney problems don’t give you any clues that something is wrong, other issues may escalate into major repairs or even a house fire if left neglected.

One of the most common issues that can lead to moisture damage and the subsequent need for costly repairs is deteriorating mortar joints. Mortar is a mixture that holds the bricks of a chimney together, but over time, exposure to snow, ice, and water causes it to erode. When this occurs, the bricks can start to fall apart and your chimney could be at risk of structural collapse.

Another major cause of chimney failure is water leaks. Moisture penetration is the number one chimney problem that can threaten your home and, if ignored, can lead to serious water damage and mold accumulation. Chimneys are particularly susceptible to moisture damage because they are exposed to the elements daily, so it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance and inspections to avoid moisture issues.

Other common chimney problems that can lead to moisture problems include blocked chimney flues, cracks in the crown, and missing or deteriorating flashing. If you notice any of these issues, reach out to your local chimney professionals for a professional repair. Minor cracks in bricks that aren’t loose can be repaired with brush-applied crack filler, while cracked or crumbling mortar joints need to be replaced through a process called tuckpointing.

Cracked Flashing

Flashing is a metal or rubber material that prevents water from seeping around chimneys, roof vents, and skylights. It can wear out from the elements, or it may crack or fall off.

A flashing repair should always begin with a thorough inspection of the area. Even a small crack or tear in the flashing can lead to a leak in a short amount of time. The best way to prevent these issues is with routine flashing inspections, especially after a severe storm.

To make a flashing repair, you will first need to remove any caulk that has begun to degrade. Then you will need to remove any old mortar with a hammer and plugging chisel. Afterward, you will need to re-point the joint with a high-quality masonry caulk.

In some cases, you will need to use a flashing patch kit. This can be purchased from any home improvement store. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to properly apply the patch kit to the damaged area of the flashing.

Other times you will need to replace the flashing entirely. This can be done with a self-adhesive metal-backed flashing strip that is not fitted into the mortar joints of brick walls or chimney stacks.

This type of flashing is usually installed at the base of a chimney where it meets the roof, and it is often covered with cap flashing when finished. If you have a dormer, it will probably need step flashing, which is squares of flashing that overlap like fish scales and climb up the side of the chimney following the slope of the roof. Saddle flashing is sometimes used at the peak of a dormer to direct water and debris away from the step flashing below it.

Efflorescence

When a fireplace is working well, it’s a source of warmth, comfort, and coziness on chilly evenings. But like any structure, it can run into problems that may be costly or even dangerous if they’re not noticed and addressed right away.

The masonry of the chimney is very durable, but it can still soak up too much moisture over time, leading to deterioration and damage. A sign of too much moisture in the chimney is a chalk-like mineral called efflorescence, which appears as white stains on the chimney’s face and walls. If left untreated, efflorescence can lead to a more serious problem known as spalling, where the bricks of the chimney crumble.

Moisture in the chimney can also cause a buildup of creosote, which is a highly flammable byproduct of burning wood and poses a fire risk. It can also hinder ideal air ventilation and promote a damp environment that leads to the growth of mold.

Chimney crowns are a very important part of stone and masonry chimneys, as they seal the chimney from its flue liner to the masonry wall. If the chimney crown is damaged, it can allow rainwater to get inside the chimney and cause severe water damage.

If the flashing around the chimney is damaged, it can also allow rainwater to leak into the home and cause water damage to ceilings in the attic. It’s a good idea to check the area of the attic where the chimney is located regularly for signs of leaking flashing. If you find it, a chimney repair specialist can replace the flashing quickly and inexpensively to avoid costly water damage. A professional can also apply a waterproof sealant to prevent the problem from returning.

Bird Nests

A warm fireplace adds to the coziness of a home, but only if it works correctly. As time goes by, chimneys can develop a variety of issues that affect their functionality and endanger your family’s safety. It is important to perform regular maintenance and inspections on your chimney and schedule annual cleanings and sweepings. This ensures that your fireplace will provide warmth and comfortable conversation for years to come.

Bird nests are often hard to miss, especially those of grebes in large ponds or gravel pits (their eggs are incubated half-submerged), swallows building their vast platforms of sticks in the treetops, or house martins plastering familiar semi-circular cups under roof eaves. But even a nest in the fork of a branch, on a ledge of a wall, or a chimney flue opening can become an obstruction to your chimney’s flow.

The most common bird nest is a cup nest, with walls made of twigs and grass stems lined with moss, hair, threads from caterpillars or spider webs, mud or saliva, and feathers or fur from other birds. This material provides excellent insulation, allowing the nest to retain heat and protect the chicks inside from predators.

These materials also create an obstacle to the natural updraft that moves smoke and toxic gases out of your chimney. If there is a blockage or an improperly constructed chimney, smoke and deadly carbon monoxide can back up into your home. Luckily, obstructions and blockages can be prevented with a properly functioning chimney cap, proper chimney height, and frequent inspections by a qualified Brick + Ember Outfitters chimney sweep.

Mysterious Leaks

Chimneys may seem big, strong, and indestructible but they aren’t immune to moisture damage. Moisture causes stains, bubbling of paint or wallpaper, and weakening of the underlying brick. It can also lead to rot and mold. If you have a leaky chimney it can cause water damage to the ceilings, walls, and foundation of your home. Luckily, it’s usually easy to spot if your chimney is leaking. Look for stains on the ceiling, the crinkled appearance of wallpaper, or rust on metal parts such as fireplace doors, damper, and chimney caps.

Chimney leaks are often caused by faulty flashing (the layered metal sheets that are at the base of your chimney where it meets your roof). Flashing can be prone to rust because it’s exposed to extreme weather elements. It’s also a common problem in newer homes where the chimney has been constructed too close to the wood framing of the house. The flashing has a sealant that helps protect it, but over time that sealant can wear away. If this is the case a roofing company can be called to replace the flashing and counter flashing and provide a new waterproof seal.

Another reason for leaks is that the chimney crown, a 2” to 3” thick concrete or mortar slab poured at a slight slope on top of the chimney can be cracked or broken. This allows water to flow into the chimney, and it’s especially difficult if the crown has an uneven surface or is too high or too low.