Tag Archives: chimney cleaning

Spring Home Maintenance

Start your spring exterior maintenance plan by grabbing a pen and paper and taking a walk around the full perimeter of your home. Compile a list of any necessary repairs you discover. Breaking these tasks down later into categories and prioritizing them will make the list more manageable.

Trim Trees & Bushes

You need relatively clear access to your home’s exterior to complete most maintenance tasks. A good place to start is to trim back any trees and bushes from the side of the house and hanging over the roof, gutters, and power lines. Remember to give the same attention to any outbuildings, such as a detached garage or storage shed.

Roof, Gutters & Downspouts 

Inspect the roof of your home and outbuildings for any signs of leaks or damage including buckling, curling, or missing shingles. Shingles and metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and in valleys should be firmly adhered. Consult with a roofing specialist if you suspect repairs are necessary. Gutters and downspouts should be flushed and inspected.

How to Clean Rain Gutters and Downspouts

Pressure Wash

Carefully pressure wash the siding, porch, deck, patio, walkways, and driveway, wherever there are stubborn dirt stains, fungus, mold, or mildew. If you plan to use detergents or bleach solutions, be sure to use safe, biodegradable products recommended for the specific surfaces you are cleaning.

Chimney & Fireplace

Inspect the chimney for any mortar or brick damage. Cracked or crumbling mortar should be removed and replaced, known as repointing. Significantly damaged or missing stones should be replaced. Some minor masonry jobs can be done yourself. If you find significant mortar or brick damage it is generally best to consult with a professional.

Once the heating season has passed, have the chimney professionally inspected and cleaned, especially if you use a wood stove or fireplace regularly during winter. Doing this in spring or summer will avoid the fall rush and you may even get a break on the price.

Siding, Doors & Windows

Inspect for gaps where air and moisture can get inside. Remove old caulk and thoroughly clean areas in need of repair. Allow to dry completely and apply a quality, exterior grade caulk.

Foundation, Driveway, Walkway & Patio

Inspect the concrete for cracks or pits. Minor defects can often be repaired on your own but larger jobs may require a professional. Keep in mind it can be difficult to match a patch to existing concrete. Carefully consider repairs in high visibility locations.  If you notice significant cracks or damage to the foundation you should have it professionally inspected.

Decks & Porches

Examine decks and porches for any damage or rot. Replace any deck boards in poor condition and secure loose boards or railings. Apply stain or sealer to wood decks to prevent decay. Resurface waterproof decking as recommended by the manufacturer’s warranty.

Lawn Maintenance

Remove all fallen branches, leaves, and other debris from the lawn. De-thatch the lawn with a good raking prior to the first mowing. Mow lawn down to two inches, being careful not to ‘scalp’ the grass with the first mowing. Lightly apply a quality fertilizer that contains an effective weed killer.

Spring Exterior Home Maintenance

Exterior Home MaintenanceStart your spring exterior maintenance plan by grabbing a pen and paper and taking a walk around the full perimeter of your home. Compile a list of any necessary repairs you discover. Breaking these tasks down later into categories and prioritizing them will make the list more manageable.

Tree TrimmingTrim Trees & Bushes You need relatively clear access to your home’s exterior to complete most maintenance tasks. A good place to start is to trim back any trees and bushes from the side of the house and hanging over the roof, gutters, and power lines. Remember to give the same attention to any outbuildings, such as a detached garage or storage shed. 

Power Wash Power wash the siding, porch, deck, patio, walkways, and driveway, wherever there are stubborn dirt stains, fungus, mold, or mildew. If you plan to use detergents or bleach solutions, be sure to use safe, biodegradable products recommended for the specific surfaces you are cleaning.

ChimneyChimney & Fireplace Inspect the chimney for any mortar or brick damage. Cracked or crumbling mortar should be removed and replaced, known as repointing. Examine the brick or stone for signs of peeling or flaking, known as spauling. Significantly damaged or missing stones should be replaced. Some minor masonry jobs can be done yourself. Thoroughly cleaning and then sealing the chimney’s entire exterior surface with a high quality brick and stone sealer will help reduce further damage. If you find significant mortar or brick damage it is generally best to consult with a professional.

Once the heating season has passed, have the chimney professionally inspected and cleaned, especially if you use a wood stove or fireplace regularly during winter. Doing this in spring or summer will avoid the fall rush and you may even get a break on the price.

Buckling ShinglesRoof, Gutters & DownspoutsInspect the roof of your home and outbuildings for any signs of leaks or damage including buckling, curling, or missing shingles. Shingles and metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and in valleys should be firmly adhered. Consult with a roofing specialist if you suspect repairs are necessary. Gutters and downspouts should be flushed and inspected for any leaks. If you find leaks, thoroughly dry the area to be repaired and apply a quality, exterior caulk to seal any holes, joints, or gaps.

 

Siding, Doors & Windows Inspect for gaps where air and moisture can get inside. Remove old caulk and thoroughly clean areas in need of repair. Allow to dry completely and apply a quality, exterior grade caulk.  

 

Foundation, Driveway, Walkway & Patio Inspect the concrete for cracks or pits. Minor defects can often be repaired on your own but larger jobs may require a professional. Keep in mind it can be difficult to match a patch to existing concrete. Carefully consider repairs in high visibility locations.  If you notice significant cracks or damage to the foundation you should have it professionally inspected immediately.  

 

Deck MaintenanceDecks & Porches Examine decks and porches for any damage or rot. Replace any deck boards in poor condition and secure loose boards or railings. Apply stain or sealer to wood decks to prevent decay. Resurface waterproof decking as recommended by the manufacturer’s warranty.  

 

Lawn Maintenance

Remove all fallen branches, leaves, and other debris from the lawn. De-thatch the lawn with a good raking prior to the first mowing. Mow lawn down to two inches, being careful not to ‘scalp’ the grass with the first mowing. Lightly apply a quality fertilizer that contains an effective weed killer.   

Home Emergency Services, Fire Damage – Post 6 of 6

Winter Storm Damages

Winter Storm Damages

House fires can be a devastating tragedy. It is important to work with professionals who are properly trained for this type emergency. They will secure the area and your valuables, eliminate safety hazards to you and the neighborhood, assess damages, and quickly restore your property to pre-loss conditions.

Fire prevention and preparedness is paramount to your safety. Taking precaution and having a plan in place will help prevent fires and greatly increase your chances of surviving a fire.

  • Make sure you have properly working smoke alarms installed, check batteries monthly, and replace batteries annually or sooner if needed.
  • Check for damage to electrical cords and avoid overloading electrical outlets or extension cords. Do not place cords and wires under rugs or across high traffic areas.
  • Immediately shut off appliances that spark or emit an unusual smell.
  • Have your chimney cleaned regularly. The chimney should be cleaned after every two cords of seasoned, dry wood is burned.
  • Take care to burn candles away from combustible materials and out of reach of children and pets.
  • Portable heaters should be placed on a level, non-flammable surface at least three feet away from any combustible materials. Turn off and unplug heaters when unattended. Do not use portable gas heaters or charcoal grills indoors.
  • Purchase a fire extinguisher and keep it accessible and fully charged.
  • Prepare and rehearse an emergency evacuation plan from every room in the house. Caution everyone to stay low to the floor when escaping from fire and never open doors that are hot. Have a safe location where everyone can meet after escaping the house.
  • Prepare an emergency kit consisting of at least a three-day supply of food, water, medications, pet supplies, flashlight, battery-powered radio, spare batteries, and a first aid kit. This kit will be helpful even during temporary power outages.

Chimney Cleaning Services Are In High Demand

Does your chimney need cleaned?

Do you need your chimney cleaned before the heating season kicks in? It won’t be much longer before you want to start a cozy fire to take the cold chill of fall out of the room. The rule of thumb is you should have your chimney cleaned after every two cords of wood are burned. For some this may be annually and for others it may only be every few years. With fall now upon us, most chimney sweeps are already booked 3-4 weeks out for cleaning and inspection services. If you are due to have your chimney cleaned this season, don’t delay. Call your local service and get on the list today. If you don’t have a service you use regularly, please give us a call at 425-775-9085 and we can refer someone to you. We also provide masonry services if your chimney is in need of repair.

 

Spring Home Maintenance Tips

Start your spring exterior maintenance plan by grabbing a pen and paper and taking a walk around the full perimeter of your home. Compile a list of any necessary repairs you discover. Breaking these tasks down later into categories and prioritizing them will make the list more manageable.

Trim Trees & Bushes

You need relatively clear access to your home’s exterior to Tree overhanging roof complete most maintenance tasks. A good place to start is to trim back any trees and bushes from the side of the house and hanging over the roof, gutters, and power lines. Remember to give the same attention to any outbuildings, such as a detached garage or storage shed.

Roof, Gutters & Downspouts

buckling shingles Inspect the roof of your home and outbuildings for any signs of leaks or damage including buckling, curling, or missing shingles. Shingles and metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and in valleys should be firmly adhered. Consult with a roofing specialist if you suspect repairs are necessary. Gutters and downspouts should be flushed and inspected.

How to Clean Rain Gutters and Downspouts
How to Clean Rain Gutters and Downspouts

Power Wash

Power wash the siding, porch, deck, patio, walkways, and driveway, wherever there are stubborn dirt stains, fungus, mold, or mildew. If you plan to use detergents or bleach solutions, be sure to use safe, biodegradable products recommended for the specific surfaces you are cleaning.

Chimney & Fireplace

Inspect the chimney for any mortar or brick damage. Cracked or crumbling mortar should be removed and replaced, known as repointing. Significantly damaged or missing stones should be replaced. Some minor masonry jobs can be done yourself. If you find significant mortar or brick damage it is generally best to consult with a professional.

Once the heating season has passed, have the chimney professionally inspected and cleaned, especially if you use a wood stove or fireplace regularly during winter. Doing this in spring or summer will avoid the fall rush and you may even get a break on the price.

Siding, Doors & Windows

Inspect for gaps where air and moisture can get inside. Remove old caulk and thoroughly clean areas in need of repair. Allow to dry completely and apply a quality, exterior grade caulk.

Foundation, Driveway, Walkway & Patio

Inspect the concrete for cracks or pits. Minor defects can often be repaired on your own but larger jobs may require a professional. Keep in mind it can be difficult to match a patch to existing concrete. Carefully consider repairs in high visibility locations.  If you notice significant cracks or damage to the foundation you should have it professionally inspected immediately.

Decks & Porches

Examine decks and porches for any damage or rot. Replace any deck boards in poor condition and secure loose boards or railings. Apply stain or sealer to wood decks to prevent decay. Resurface waterproof decking as recommended by the manufacturer’s warranty.

Lawn Maintenance

Remove all fallen branches, leaves, and other debris from the lawn. De-thatch the lawn with a good raking prior to the first mowing. Mow lawn down to two inches, being careful not to ‘scalp’ the grass with the first mowing. Lightly apply a quality fertilizer that contains an effective weed killer.

Protect your Home for Winter

Fall is right around the corner and if you haven’t done so already, now is the time to prepare your home for winter. Spending some time doing a few simple and inexpensive things will help make your home more comfortable, give you added peace of mind, and save you money on your heating bill.

The following tips will help guide you through the process. We hope you find it useful as you make your way through your fall ‘to do’ list.

Outside Your Home

Tree Trimming: Take special care to have any dead or Tree overhanging roofdiseased branches removed from trees that may fall and cause injury, damage property, or take down power lines. For large trees this task is best left to the experts. Trim any trees or bushes away from the side of the house or hanging over the roof and gutters.

Chimney: Have the chimney inspected and cleaned, especially if you use a wood stove or fireplace regularly. On average, your chimney should be cleaned after every two cords of seasoned, dry wood is burned. Stock an adequate supply of dry, seasoned firewood and store away from the side of your house in a location where it will stay dry and has good air flow.

Roof and Gutters: Inspect the roof of your home and buckling shinglesoutbuildings for any signs of leaks or damage including buckling, curling, or missing shingles. Shingles and metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and in valleys should be firmly adhered. Gutters and downspouts should be flushed and inspected.

Siding, Doors, and Windows: Take care to remove any soil or organic matter in contact with the siding. Check siding, doors, and windows for any gaps where air and moisture can pass through. Remove any old caulk and thoroughly clean areas that need repair. Allow the areas to dry completely and apply a quality, exterior caulk to seal any gaps. Check and replace worn weather stripping on all doors and windows. Install storm windows if you have them.

Outdoor Faucets: Remove, drain, and store hoses for winter. If you have an inside valve for each outdoor faucet, turn these off and open the outside faucet slightly to drain any water left in the pipes. Attach insulated covers over outside faucets. Blow out sprinkler systems.

Tools: Check that all summer tools have been cleaned and stored away for winter and that winter tools like snow shovels and blowers are accessible and ready to use.

Inside Your Home

Air Leaks: If you don’t have insulated windows you can buy inexpensive and easy to install ‘shrink & seal’ insulation kits to reduce heat loss. Changing light weight curtains with heavier drapes helps reduce heat loss and gives the room a fresh look. Add insulated plates to electrical outlets on exterior walls.

Heating System: Have a professional inspect and service your heating system each year to ensure it is operating efficiently. Replace air filters as recommended by the manufacturer. Buying a season’s worth of filters and marking your calendar in advance will help prevent overlooking this important task. Consider installing a programmable thermostat. This can save a lot of money by eliminating those times you forget to turn the heat down when leaving the house for extended periods. Walk through your home and make sure all vents or baseboard heaters are clear of furniture.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Inspect all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working properly. Replace batteries in each device annually or sooner if needed. Check batteries monthly at the same time you change your air filters.

Insulation: Consider having your home’s insulation inspected to ensure it meets the proper R-value specification and that there isn’t any water or rodent damage. Wrap your water heater with an insulated blanket. Wrapping exposed water pipes in the crawl space or basement and garage will cut your energy bill, as well as help prevent pipes from freezing. Be sure and check for air leaks where pipes enter the house on exterior walls and caulk or add insulation as needed.

Emergencies: Last but not least, prepare an emergency kit for you and your family in the event of a power outage or other emergency. Click here for important tips from the Red Cross and a comprehensive list of essential items to include.