The Rutland Chimney Crew Loves Traveling to Pittsford: Trust Us for Chimney Services
Pittsford, VT is a small town nestled between the Green Mountains and the Taconic Range. Home to historical attractions, lots of scenic beauty, and a warm and welcoming community, Pittsford is often considered the perfect spot for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of big city life.
What’s fun to do in the area? The New England Maple Museum is a popular spot where one of Vermont’s most famous products – maple syrup – is made. Take a tour, enjoy some samples, and learn more about the history and production of this beloved pancake topping.
The town also has a network of well-maintained trails that are perfect for hiking and breathing in some fresh air. The Pittsford Trail Network offers trails of varying difficulty, making it accessible for all skill levels – whether you’re out and about with your kiddos or trying to challenge yourself.
And while you’re out enjoying nature, be sure to stop by Otter Creek, which runs through Pittsford and offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The peaceful waters and beautiful surroundings make it a great spot for a relaxing day on the water.
Of course, there’s plenty of non-nature-related things to do, too, like dining at beloved local restaurants, browsing markets and shops, and visiting nearby historical spots.
All in all, Pittsford provides a quiet, laid-back atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Vermont’s natural beauty and historical charm. And if a day in the area has left you tired and ready to relax, we’d be happy to ensure your fireplace is ready for you. Give us a call to book your next inspection – we travel to Pittsford, Rutland, Killington, and more!
Our Full List of Chimney & Fireplace Services
How Often Should a Chimney Be Inspected & Cleaned?
It’s recommended to have your chimney inspected at least once a year – even if you only use it a few times per burn season. This annual inspection helps identify any potential issues that might not be immediately visible, such as structural damage or blockages, so we can tackle them before they get any worse.
As far as cleaning, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests cleaning your chimney when there is a 1/8-inch buildup of creosote or soot. For regular users, this often translates to a yearly cleaning, completed at the same time as your inspection. However, if you burn frequently or use softer woods, more frequent cleanings may be necessary.
What Are the Signs That My Chimney Needs Servicing?
Like we said above, your chimney should be inspected/serviced at least once per year. That said, there are things to keep an eye out for in between these services – and that, if spotted, warrant a call to our crew.
If you notice:
- smoke coming into your home when you light a fire
- persistent unpleasant odors, even when the fireplace isn’t in use
- excessive soot or ash around the fireplace
- cracks, missing bricks, or deteriorating mortar
- nesting materials or debris in your chimney
- chimney fire signs or unusual popping or rumbling noises
- any changes in heat output or efficiency
…be sure to call in our techs as soon as possible.
What Are the Most Common Chimney Repairs? How Can I Prevent Them?
More often than not, the repairs we address have to do with water damage. Water causes masonry to crumble, metal components to rust, wood to rot, and mold to form – all of which can significantly damage the structure, as well as the walls and ceilings near it.
That said, lots of things can come up with your chimney. These structures are surprisingly complex, consisting of multiple parts that all need to work together to keep your household safer. If even one component is compromised, the rest of the system will suffer.
So, what are some good damage prevention tips for your chimney?
- Book annual inspections. Annual inspections help catch problems early before they become severe, costly, and time-consuming to address.
- Use appropriate burn practices. Burn only seasoned wood and avoid burning trash or non-wood materials to reduce creosote buildup.
- Invest in preventive maintenance. Preventive maintenance, like installing a chimney cap and waterproofing, can go a long way in keeping your system safer.
- Address damage right away. Address any signs of wear or damage promptly to prevent further deterioration.
- Maintain good venting and airflow. Ensure that your chimney is adequately ventilated to prevent excess moisture buildup.
Can I Use My Chimney if It Hasn’t Been Cleaned in a While?
We wouldn’t recommend it, especially if it has been over a year since your last inspection. Creosote is a flammable substance that accumulates in the chimney when burning wood, and if too much has accumulated, your risk of experiencing a chimney fire will go up significantly. It’s always best to have this checked out before the start of each burn season.
In addition, things like soot, nesting materials, and outdoor debris can build up over time and obstruct the chimney, reducing draft and potentially causing smoke and harmful fumes to enter your home – instead of exiting through the chimney.
And, of course, without regular cleaning and maintenance, creosote and moisture can damage the chimney’s structure, leading to costly repairs and reduced safety.
To ensure safer and more efficient operation, it’s important to have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly by a professional – and to avoid putting it to use in the meantime.
Are There Specific Chimney Maintenance Tasks I Can Do Myself? Or Should I Always Hire a Professional?
When it comes to chimneys and fireplaces, most things should be handled by an expert. Why? Because not doing so can invite lots of dangers. Remember that you’re dealing with fire, smoke, and noxious gases inside of your home. This really isn’t an area where you can cut corners or allow any wiggle room.
That said, there are things you can do in between your regular inspections to keep your system in tip-top shape:
- Do your own overviews. Visually inspect your chimney from the ground, and look for signs of damage – like missing bricks, cracks, or blockages – and if you spot an issue, reach out to an expert right away.
- Maintain your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Ensure that both detectors are functioning correctly, are within their recommended lifespans, and have fresh batteries.
- Regularly remove wood ash. If you use wood in your fireplace, regularly scoop out the ash, leaving only a thin layer behind during the burn season and clearing out everything in the off season.
- Clean your glass doors and gas logs. Things like glass doors and gas logs can be regularly wiped down to ensure buildup can’t occur.
Anything else – think sweepings, relining work, masonry repairs, chimney part replacement, etc. – should be left to the professionals.
– Moriah C.
★★★★★
Looking for Reliable Chimney Services in Pittsford?
If you’re in Pittsford and looking for reliable chimney sweep and fireplace repair services, the Rutland Chimney Crew is here to help. Our team is dedicated to providing top-notch care and expertise, whether it’s a routine inspection or a complex repair. And, as a family-owned company, rest assured, we work with honesty and integrity every step of the way.
You can trust us to keep your chimney in great condition. Contact us today and experience the quality and reliability that makes us a favorite in Pittsford!
If you check with the residents of Chittenden, you’ll find that being a part of our service territory is one of the things they love about living there.