When you have a traditional wood-burning fireplace, one of the most important things you need to do in the last days of summer is to get your firewood supply ready for colder weather. Not only should you consider how much wood you will need to last through the winter,...
Elizabeth Guy
Take Care of Your Leaky Chimney Now
The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) states water causes extensive deterioration to chimneys and masonry, leading to expensive repairs. Preventing water penetration is one of the most important responsibilities that a homeowner has when maintaining a masonry...
When is the Best Time for a Chimney Sweep and Inspection?
One responsibility you have as a homeowner is scheduling an appointment to have your chimney professionally swept and inspected every year to ensure your fireplace and chimney system are working safely and efficiently. These annual chimney maintenance services are...
Causes of Chimney Odors
Summers in the Shenandoah Valley can be very hot and humid, and this weather can lead to chimney odor problems. You might have thought you could forget about your fireplace and chimney over the summer until unpleasant odors have invaded your home. Fortunately, Blue...
Converting a Wood-Burning Fireplace to Gas
If you are looking for ways to cut back on your heating costs, you may want to consider updating your traditional wood-burning fireplace. You can do this by converting it to a gas hearth appliance. Not only are newer gas fireplaces more economical to use, but they...
Why Does My Chimney Stink?
Just when you think it is time to forget about your chimney for a few months, you start noticing unpleasant odors coming from it through your fireplace into your home. Unfortunately, smelly chimneys are quite common in the summer. Over our years of working on chimneys...
The Most Common Chimney Masonry Problem and Its Solution
Masonry chimneys are built to last a lifetime. However, the bricks and mortar joints can suffer from damage and deterioration over time. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), water causes the largest amount of chimney masonry problems. Bricks...
Chimney Health Hazards You Should Know About
You may not realize the dangers that could be lurking within your chimney. Flue blockages, creosote, and cracks in the chimney liner are difficult to see, and they can all lead to hazardous situations, including chimney fires and carbon monoxide leaks. This is why it...
Firebrick Patterns for Interior Fireplaces
If you are thinking about building a new home or adding a traditional masonry fireplace to your current home, Blue Ridge Chimney Services can help. They have years of experience with designing and constructing new fireplaces in the Shenandoah Valley. Our team includes...
Why Professional Certifications Matter
Before hiring a chimney sweep to complete your annual chimney maintenance, you should do a bit of research to find the best sweep. While recommendations from your friends and neighbors are helpful, there is one important qualification you should be looking for. You...