Sometimes chimney repairs and corrections are needed in order to keep the chimney, liner and fireplace in satisfactory condition.
The vast majority of these repairs can be completed by a qualified chimney professional. All damaged, cracked and loose bricks and mortar inside the fire box should be repaired, replaced if required and re-pointed. A damaged or cracked chimney cap should also be replaced in order to prevent water from further damaging the chimney and liner. The damper should open and close easily so that heated air does not escape when the fireplace is not in use. The chimney liner should be kept free from obstruction and all areas of damage should be repaired.
The purpose of the chimney is to vent the gases that occur when wood is burned. One of these gases is carbon monoxide. It is very important the chimney be propelry maintained in order to help keep this toxic gas out of the dwelling. Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed on each living level of the home. Carbon monoxide detectors will alert you to issues with your boiler, furnace, water heater and fire place.