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What Do I Do If My Chimney Is Blocked?

A blocked chimney is a major fire hazard, especially in the winter months. Even a small blockage is very dangerous as it prevents smoke from properly escaping the chimney. There are a variety of things that can cause chimney blockages, but luckily, they are easy to remove with a bit of professional help. In this article, we’ll take a look at what causes chimney blockages, what you should do if you suspect your chimney is blocked, and how a chimney cap can help prevent future blockages.

Chimney Blockage Caused by Animals in Sewanee TNWhat causes a blocked chimney?

There are many different things that can cause a blocked chimney. One of the most common causes is animals getting stuck inside. Birds, rodents, and other animals often try to get inside chimneys during the winter months to escape the cold. Chimneys are also an ideal shape for nests, which can further block the chimney.

It’s also possible for leaves and other debris to fall inside the chimney. This is especially common if you have large trees nearby or live in a windy area. In extreme cases, creosote buildup can also cause chimney blockages.

What should I do if my chimney is blocked?

There are many warning signs that will indicate if you have a blocked chimney. You might notice an excessive amount of smoke or a strong smoky odor when you light a fire, and your carbon monoxide detector might also issue a warning. In extreme cases, you might also notice that large amounts of soot have built up in your chimney or even that debris occasionally falls into the fireplace.

If you think your chimney is blocked, the first thing you should do is to stop using your fireplace. Using your fireplace while your chimney is blocked is very dangerous. If possible, use a flashlight to determine what is causing the blockage. Be sure to wear a protective eye and face mask if you’re going to be working inside your chimney.

Ultimately, it’s safest to have the blockage removed by a chimney professional. DIY chimney cleaning can be very dangerous, especially when you don’t have the right protective equipment. A chimney sweep can safely navigate your roof to remove the blockage from the top of the chimney, as well as cleaning any remaining debris from the inside of the chimney. Wait until your chimney sweep gives you the all-clear to start using your chimney again.

Professional Chimney Sweeping in Beechgrove TNAfter your chimney blockage has been fully removed, consider installing a new chimney cap, or even a chase cover if appropriate for your style of chimney. This will help prevent debris or animals from blocking your chimney in the future.

Chimney Professionals

If you think your chimney is blocked, don’t wait to call a professional. A1 Chimney’s team of professional chimney sweeps can help with chimney blockages throughout southern middle Tennessee and the Tennessee Valley.

Give us a call at 931-967-3595 in Tennessee or 256-285-2895 in Alabama to schedule an appointment today!