Billy’s Little Blog

For all the good things a chimney can do, it’s not invincible during cold weather.  Cold affects the structure of a chimney.  Animals and blowing debris can create flue obstructions.  Backdrafts of cold air can happen at the most inopportune times.  Luckily, our expert chimney sweeps offer tips for how to help. Chimney structural damage from rain Under the best of circumstances, bricks and mortar Read more…

It may be called a “fireplace,” but that doesn’t mean that any kind of fire that can be burned in it is suitable and safe.  Every year, we hear about house fires and health issues that stem from using fireplaces as “burn-all” appliances, rather than what they were intended for: seasoned (dry) wood, and nothing else. Here’s a checklist to remind you of the types Read more…

The recommended chimney-cleaning schedule is stated in different ways by different fireplace/safety institutions, so it’s not always easy to know exactly how to proceed if you’re a homeowner who operates a fireplace.  Here are some guidelines in simple terms. Why is it so important to have your chimney cleaned? Using a fireplace – particularly a wood-burning fireplace – sends gases and toxins up the chimney.  Over Read more…

Your chimney is an important safety device that is carefully designed and constructed to protect your home and family while you are enjoying your fireplace or wood stove. In order for it to do its job and keep your family safe, it needs to be regularly maintained and inspected. However, many homeowners underestimate the importance of annual chimney inspections and often miss opportunities Read more…

Do you have a fireplace that’s not being used very much, if at all? Many Houston-area homeowners are discovering the benefits of adding a gas log set to their unused fireplace originally intended to burn wood. If your home has gas capability, a gas log set can make a lovely showpiece all year long. The Read more…

Water leaking through the chimney is a common problem, especially in older homes, that often catches many homeowners by surprise leading them to wonder why their chimney is leaking. There are a number of chimney problems that could sprout a leak and it can be difficult to find the source. But a chimney leak can develop into a potentially serious and costly issue Read more…

Are your local weather conditions ruining your chimney? The fact is your chimney is very susceptible to rain, wind, snow, sleet and even heat. Also, the more drastic the change in weather, the more of an impact it has on your chimney construction. In some climates, it can be sunny and warm one day and the next day it’s bombarded with golf ball sized Read more…

How often should chimneys be cleaned is one of our most frequently asked questions. Your chimney is a vital safety device designed to help prevent smoke and toxic contaminants from filling up inside your home. While the chimney and flue liner are built to last for years, it is often open to the outside world. Read more…

Your fireplace has provided years of worry-free warmth and enjoyment for you and your family. But if you don’t use the fireplace very often or have foregone the customary annual inspection and cleaning, you may begin to notice a peculiar smell in the room. It seems to get stronger as you get closer to the fireplace until it hits you like a Read more…