Frequently Asked Questions
Wisconsin Chimney Technicians Answer Your Questions About Chimney Repair
Chimney problems are serious. They must be addressed. But they don’t have to be a hassle. You don’t have to be an expert, you just have to know an expert. The skilled Waukesha chimney experts at Wisconsin Chimney Technicians will give you all the information you need. Our skilled specialists always deliver the finest chimney repair services, affordably priced with a firm, fair quote in advance. Our workers are bonded and fully insured. Your satisfaction is guaranteed. Now, what are your questions…?
Don’t see your question? Contact our certified chimney sweeps for an answer or to schedule an appointment.
- Q: Why do dryer vents require cleaning?A:
You may ask, “What does this have to do with chimneys?” Well, we prevent problems. Lint buildup in a dryer vent is an example of a household having serious problems. Perhaps an animal has nested in the outside opening. Either way, you’ll notice clothes are not getting dry as quickly as before. Likewise, a blocked vent is a serious fire hazard and you need of a thorough Milwaukee dryer vent cleaning. You can check this yourself just by disconnecting the vent to see if the dryer works properly. If the clothes don’t dry as quickly as before, your vent is probably blocked. Call the experts at Waukesha Chimney Cleaning Technicians to have it professionally cleaned.
- Q: How often should my chimney be inspected?A:
It’s best to have your chimney inspected every year. Call a licensed chimney sweep from Wisconsin Chimney Technicians to have a professional inspection of your chimney, fireplaces, and vents. Your chimney inspector will tell you if cleaning or repairs are needed. Many home owners schedule an inspection in the fall. You’ll probably want to have a Milwaukee chimney inspection when you sell a house or when you buy one (if an inspection hasn’t already been done recently).
- Q: Should I fill in the cracks in my chimney?A:
Typically, a full inspection will give you a clear idea of when the cracks should be filled in. After all, cracks will inevitably continue to spread (so can always be fixed sooner rather than later, especially if you're a masonry perfectionist). There are, however, tiny tricks for knowing whether or not the chimney repair is urgent, and one of these involves using a nickel. See our news article Are Chimney Cracks a Problem? for more details.
- Q: When should my chimney be inspected?A:
You should schedule your annual fireplace inspection before winter starts. Early fall is when most Wisconsin homeowners have their inspections done. This way, any problem can be found and fixed before the cold weather begins.
- Q: Do chimneys need maintenance in spring and summer?A:
The warm weather months when your fireplace isn’t in regular use is ideal for detail work like tuckpointing and flue resurfacing. It’s a convenient time to do larger repairs as well, before you need it to stay warm in winter.
- Q: What are signs something is wrong with my chimney?A:
The following signs may indicate problems with your chimney:
- Water in the fireplace – the damper or cap is not working properly and is allowing rainwater in
- Lots of smoke enters your home instead of the chimney – the chimney is likely blocked
- A strong smell from the fireplace – this indicates a buildup of soot or creosote which can cause a fire
- Broken bricks or missing mortar – the damage to the chimney exterior can be signs of interior problems
- A draft – the damper is not closing properly or there is a crack in the chimney
- Q: Is it safe to repair my own chimney?A:
We don’t recommend anyone without professional training climb up the chimney. Even if the DIY repair you’re hoping for seems easily accessible, chimneys are incredibly confined spaces. Having the right tools will also make a difference. At Wisconsin Chimney, our technicians have over 30 years of experience and use the right tools for every job.
- Q: Will chimney cleaning get soot into my home?A:
Wisconsin Chimney Technicians are experts at sweeping chimneys without creating a mess. We protect the area around your fireplace to keep soot and creosote contained as it is removed from your chimney.
- Q: What is the difference between soot and creosote?A:
Soot is an ashy powder created when burning coal, wood, or other material in a fireplace. Creosote is the specific residue left behind when burning wood. Whatever you burn in your fireplace, there will be buildup in your chimney which needs to be cleaned out at least once a year.
