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Chimney Service Company Near You: If You’re in Brandon, VT, Hire Rutland Chimney

We provide quality chimney sweep services, fireplace repairs, and more near you, making us the go-to chimney company in Brandon and its surrounding areas. Don’t hesitate to give us a call to book your annual chimney inspection – we’re here to help with it all.

Chimney Sweep Near Me: What Happens if I Don’t Clean or Sweep My Chimney

Industry experts recommend annual chimney inspections and sweeps. Even if your system doesn’t get used much (or at all), and even if everything seems fine, booking this maintenance every year is a must. What happens if you neglect it?

If you neglect chimney cleaning, several serious issues can arise:

  • Structural Damage: Moisture mixing with soot creates acidic compounds that can deteriorate the chimney’s masonry over time. In addition, debris and animals can find their way in (especially if you don’t use your chimney) causing things to break down prematurely.
  • Creosote Buildup: Burning wood produces creosote, a highly flammable residue that accumulates inside the chimney. Excessive buildup increases the risk of a dangerous chimney fire.
  • Poor Ventilation: A dirty chimney can restrict airflow, causing smoke, carbon monoxide, and other harmful gases to back up into your home. Or, at the very least, reduce efficiency and heat output.
  • Bad Odors & Pest Invasion: Birds, squirrels, and other critters may nest in an unused chimney, leading to blockages, potential fire hazards, foul odors, and pest problems.
  • Decreased Home Value: A fireplace can be a hot selling point for home buyers, but only if it’s in good condition. If it’s broken down and deteriorating, you may need to decrease the value of your home or invest in costly repairs.
original square image shows a stone fireplace with a fire burning inside. Overlaid are two rounded rectangle text boxes with red headers and white backgrounds, connected by a red line. The top box reads "QUESTION: What happens if I don't sweep my chimney?" The bottom box reads "ANSWER: Neglecting chimney maintenance can lead to structural damage, creosote buildup, poor ventilation, pest infestations, and bad odors. It also poses fire hazards, reduces efficiency, and can even lower your home's value."

Is it worth taking any chances? We don’t think so. Call or book online now to ensure your chimney stays in tip-top shape for the long haul.

What Is a Chimney Liner, and Why Is It Important?

A chimney liner is a protective layer that runs up the inside your chimney flue. Despite not being a common part of chimney anatomy until the mid-1900s, chimney liners are a vital component, and they play a significant part in promoting more efficient and safer overall operation.

A chimney liner’s key roles include:

  • Preventing heat transfer. Liners helps provide a durable extra layer to your flue, preventing heat from reaching nearby combustible materials – and reducing the risk of house fires.
  • Protecting the chimney structure. A chimney liner shields the masonry from corrosive byproducts of combustion, prolonging the lifespan of your chimney.
  • Improving efficiency and ventilation. A properly sized liner enhances the draft, allowing smoke and gases to exit efficiently and reducing the risk of carbon monoxide buildup.
  • Meeting code requirements. Most building codes require chimney liners for safety and efficiency.

If your liner is damaged or missing, it’s essential to have it inspected and replaced to ensure your chimney operates safely. For chimney relining and repair, reach out today.

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Can Animals Get Into My Chimney? How Do I Prevent This?

Yes, animals such as birds, squirrels, raccoons, and even bats can enter your chimney, especially if it’s uncapped or has gaps. Once inside, they may become trapped, build nests, or even cause blockages that create fire and ventilation hazards. If you notice chirping, scratching, unpleasant odors, excess buildup, or airflow issues, animals may be to blame.

How can you prevent animals from entering your chimney?

original square image featuring a close-up photo of a stone fireplace with a fire burning inside. Two white rounded rectangle boxes are overlaid on the photo, connected by a thin red line. The top box reads "QUESTION: How can you prevent animals from entering your chimney?" in bold red font. The bottom box reads "ANSWER:" in bold red font followed by five bullet points in black font: "Ensure you have a quality chimney cap.", "Keep an eye out for damage and cracking.", "Don't give them easy access.", "Consider upgrading your damper.", "Book annual chimney inspections and sweeping services."
  • Ensure you have a quality chimney cap. A properly fitted chimney cap with a mesh screen is the best way to keep animals out while still allowing proper airflow.
  • Keep an eye out for damage and cracking. Cracks or missing bricks can create entry points – if you spot damage, be sure to book an appointment with your chimney company right away.
  • Don’t give them easy access. Nearby tree limbs provide easy access for squirrels and raccoons to climb onto your chimney. Keep them trimmed back to avoid more problems.
  • Consider upgrading to a top-sealing damper. These act as both a damper and a protective cover, sealing off the flue when the fireplace is not in use.
  • Book annual chimney inspections. A professional chimney sweep technician can check for signs of animal intrusion and clear any nests or debris.

Brandon, VT Chimney & Fireplace Service: Schedule Today

For chimney services near you in Brandon, VT and its surrounding cities, book with us at Rutland Chimney. Our team is trained to handle everything from routine fireplace maintenance to complex chimney repairs, and we prioritize your home’s safety every step of the way, ensuring your system is operating as efficiently as possible.

Don’t wait – reach out today.