Chimneys are great to have in a home, especially in the colder months. Unfortunately, many people will fail to keep up with the cleaning and repairs of their chimneys until it is too late. It is a dark and dirty place that can easily go unnoticed for long periods of time. However, there are some tell-tale signs your chimney is in need of a sweeping. If you notice any of the signs listed below, contact a reputable company of chimney sweeps Baltimore MD, such as the one found at www.completechimneys.com.

Creosote Levels

While it may be best to leave inspections up to the professionals, a quick inspection of your chimney’s creosote levels can help you figure out if it is in need of a sweeping. To examine the levels, you will need goggles, a dust mask, fireplace poker and a strong flashlight. Look inside the chimney for build-up of tarlike, sticky substances. These levels should not be much thicker than an inch or you could spark a fire in the chimney if you light the fireplace up.

Smoke Coming Into Home

When you use your fireplace, no smoke should filter into your home. If you begin noticing some smoke coming out of the fireplace, even a little amount, it could indicate a clog in your chimney or the vent at the top. This should be taken care of quickly and by a professional chimney company. They will also be able to check your chimney to see if it is in need of repairs. If you smell any bad odors coming into your home when using the fireplace, this is another indication that something needs to be inspected.

Most chimney professionals recommend a thorough inspection of your chimney and fireplace at least once a year. The best time to have it inspected is before the cooler months. Keeping your chimney inspected and swept will ensure you can safely use your fireplace whenever the mood strikes. The longer you wait to have your chimney swept or repaired, the more it can cost.