Live or Work in Haverford or Somewhere Surrounding? Trust D.J. Cross for Your Chimney, Venting & Masonry Needs
If you’re looking for a town that can be described as nothing less than picturesque, Haverford (located on the Philadelphia Main Line) is it. Known for its beautiful landscapes and historic homes, this area has become an ideal spot to settle down.
What’s there to do in the area?
- Visit Haverford College Arboretum. Haverford College hosts a 200-acre arboretum that features a variety of trees, gardens, and walking trails.
- Take a tour of The Grange Estate. This historic mansion and estate has guided tours, special events, and educational programs.
- Enjoy some time at Skatium Ice Rink. In nearby Havertown, the Skatium Ice Rink is perfect for those looking to get some skating in – or enjoy a fun day with friends or family.
- Do some shopping at Suburban Square. Located in Ardmore, just a short drive away, Suburban Square is an open-air shopping center with lots of shops to explore.
- Stroll the Haverford Farmer’s Market. The Haverford Farmer’s Market is known to offer fresh produce, baked goods, and great products from local vendors.
- Attend an event or two. Popular local events like Haverford Music Festival or Mayfair at Merion Cricket Club offer a great way to immerse yourself into your community.
Going out is fun, but sometimes the best plan for the day is staying in. Make sure your fireplace is ready for use so you can enjoy a cozy afternoon to the fullest. Call in D.J. Cross soon. You can also fill out our online appointment form.
Why Is It Important to Have a Clean Chimney?
It’s hard to beat sitting in front of a warm, crackling fire on a chilly evening. But, just like any other part of our home, chimneys need some attention and care every now and then too.
Why? When you burn wood in your fireplace, it produces a combustible substance called creosote. This buildup accumulates on the walls of your chimney, and if it gets too thick, it can become a fire hazard. Your chimney is designed to withstand some heat, but not the high temps associated with actual flames. A fire in your chimney, thus, results in quite a bit of damage.
Buildup in your flue – whether this is from creosote, animals, nesting materials, leaves, sticks, etc. – can also restrict airflow, causing smoke to back up into your home, and inviting poor air quality and potential respiratory issues for the occupants. When the chimney is free of blockages, it allows for proper ventilation, ensuring that combustion gases, including carbon monoxide, are safely expelled from the home.
And safety issues aside, a clean chimney ensures your fireplace or heating system operates as efficiently as possible – and better performance means more comfort for your household and potential saving on energy costs.
Signs You Need a Chimney Sweeping
So, to keep your home safer and your air fresher, it’s essential to give your chimney a good sweep every now and then. How can you know when you’re due for a chimney sweep service?
Sign #1: It’s Been Awhile
If it has been more than a year since your last chimney sweeping, it’s time to call in a professional chimney technician. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends an annual inspection and cleaning, so sticking to this timeline is a great way to keep your chimney in the best shape possible.
Sign #2: There’s Smoke Coming Out
If you notice more smoke than usual coming from your fireplace when you light a fire, it could be a sign that your chimney needs sweeping. Excess smoke is often the result of a buildup of creosote, which can block the airflow in your chimney. So, if your living room’s starting to look like a scene from a 1940s noir film, it’s probably time to call a professional chimney technician.
Trust your nose on this one. If you notice any unusual smells coming from your fireplace, it could be a sign that there’s a buildup of creosote or other debris in your chimney. This is especially important to watch out for during the summer months when your fireplace sees less use and your air conditioner is running strong.
Sign #4: There’s Creosote Buildup
This one requires a little hands-on investigation. If you’re comfortable doing so, you can take a peek inside your chimney to check for creosote buildup. Grab a flashlight and look for any black, shiny, or flaky deposits on the walls of your chimney. If you notice a buildup of more than 1/8 of an inch, it’s time for a sweeping.
If you’re not comfortable checking your chimney yourself, call in one of our certified chimney technicians to do it for you. Remember that creosote is what can catch on fire in a chimney, so this isn’t a task to avoid.
Sign #5: Wildlife Visitors
If you’ve noticed birds, squirrels, or other critters making themselves at home in your chimney, it’s time for a sweeping. Not only can these little guys cause damage to your chimney, but they can also carry diseases and create blockages. If you’ve got some unexpected and unwelcome guests, it’s time to give your chimney a thorough sweep to make sure it’s clear and critter-free.
– Dylan B.
★★★★★
Who Do You Call for Chimney Care?
If you’re ever unsure whether your chimney needs sweeping, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and call in a professional and certified technician. Plus, it gives you more time to relax by the fire, knowing that your chimney is in tip-top shape.
Stay warm, stay protected, and don’t forget to sweep those chimneys. In the Philadelphia area, D.J. Cross Chimney is the best of the best. Give us a call or schedule an appointment online today. We’re here to help.
From chimney cleaning to masonry repair, Bryn Mawr residents know they’re well-covered as part of our extensive service area.