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Edina Smoke and Fire Damage - Get Your Fireplace Ready
7/26/2015 (Permalink)
Don't Allow Fire Damage to Your Edina Home Because of Your Fire Place
Prepare Your Fireplace to Thwart Smoke and Fire Damage in Edina
Edina smoke and fire damage occurs requently when the weather gets colder and the days get shorter. People retreat indoors to the warmth of their hearths and homes. If they have a fireplace, fall is a good time to make sure that the flue and chimney are in good working order, to avoid fire damage and smoke damage. here are a few important tips to help people make sure that their fireplace is ready for the upcoming winter season.Checking from the Outside
People should assess their chimney from the outside. They should determine if it is leaning or if there are any chipped masonry joints or bricks. They should also look out for any holes or cracks.
Homeowners should also check for any stains, loose sections and corrosion if their chimney is made from factory-built metal. If the chimney is exposed to the attic, they should make sure to check there as well for any signs that repair needs to be done.
Install a Chimney Cap
A good cap can reduce water and wildlife damage to a chimney. Snow and water can enter an uncapped chimney and subsequently thaw and freeze causing expansion damage. Small wildlife can live in a chimney creating clogs and potentially introducing ticks, worms, fleas and other disease-causing pests to the house. A chimney cap that features screen mesh will keep wildlife out while protecting the roof from sparks and embers.
Check for Stains and Leaks
Inside the home, people should check the area around their fireplace for any dampness or stains. A damaged flue liner or a faulty flashing could cause all of these. If a homeowner sees signs of water around their chimney, they should call a professional immediately.
If their fireplace has grilles and louvers on the front, people should clean them as well. This is to keep the fan working and to prevent dust from gathering. Using a regular vacuum with a hose extension or a shop vacuum gets the job done.
Inspect the Flue
The fireplace flue is the duct that allows the gas, smoke and other waste to exit the house. It is vital for people to make sure that they inspect the flue for any signs of blockage. This is done to prevent any smoke and gas from returning to the house.
People should also not forget that creosote can build up in the fireplace flue and create a fire hazard. If they look up through the flue and cannot see light from above the house, it may be a sign that it is blocked, and they may need a professional to clear the flue blockage. If they can see light, people should simply clean the flue with a fireplace brush.
Replace Deteriorated or Broken Brick Lining
People should also not forget to check for any deteriorating or broken brick lining. Cracks found in the lining are not a major concern, but if the brick lining starts to deteriorate to the point that its steel body is exposed, people may permanently damage the structure due to heat from the flames.
Check the Gas Connection
If a homeowner has a gas-burning fireplace, it is important that they contact their local gas company and inspect the connection. People should have them inspect it for proper flow of gas and any leaks.
The Bottom Line
A fireplace is a beautiful addition to any house as it provides both ambiance and warmth for a homeowner and their guests over the cold months. However, it is important that a fireplace is working safely and efficiently. With regular maintenance, a fireplace can give people years of wonderful service.
In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your Edina home may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts. This kind of damage is upsetting and causes undue stress on you and your family. SERVPRO of Minnetonka specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition.
If you or your family have had fire damage or smoke damage at your Edina home, call SERVPRO of Minnetonka - 952-473-4837. They can make it, "Like it never even happened."
We are proud to serve our local communities.