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Many individuals with allergies and asthma don’t use the fireplace in their homes out of fear that it will aggravate their symptoms. Luckily, several types of fireplaces work great for people with these conditions. Keep reading to learn why you shouldn’t use a traditional fireplace when you have allergies and asthma and which fireplaces work…

Imagine an outdoor oasis in your backyard. What does it look like, and what elements are you including? Is there a bar, pool, kitchen, fireplace, garden, etc.? Extra entertainment space is great when your home is the go-to hangout place for friends and family. Keep reading to find some design ideas for outdoor fireplaces and…

It’s all fun and games with your traditional fireplace until you notice pungent, rotten odors. Don’t panic! There are plenty of ways to get rid of fireplace and chimney odors. Your home and fireplace will smell fresh with the following solutions! Use Charcoal To Absorb Odors Did you know that charcoal can naturally absorb and…

Regularly cleaning your home’s air ducts and fans is crucial for preventing an accidental house fire and maintaining high-quality air. The best way to clean these ducts is to hire a professional service to do it for you. After you schedule your first appointment, use this guide to prepare for the air duct cleaning to…

As a homeowner, your options for sources to heat your home are endless. One homeowner might use a traditional fireplace, while their neighbor uses a pellet stove! What are the benefits of pellet stoves over traditional fireplaces? If you’re looking to install a new heating source for your home, consider the advantages of a pellet…

No matter how much effort you put into making a structurally sound chimney, you’ll still experience damage and wear and tear from time to time. The best way you can avoid and prevent this wear and tear from occurring is by knowing the most common causes of chimney damage. Get familiar with the causes below…

Keeping your chimney and fireplace clean and in top condition is a must for homeowners. Just like you need to inspect your plumbing and water heaters, you must also do the same for your chimney. However, many homeowners don’t understand how often they should have their chimneys inspected. Keep reading to answer this question and…

Before the fireplace became the focal point of many American homes, it was something necessary to survive. Many homes you walk into today still have a traditional fireplace and chimney inside, but how did fireplaces originate, and why do we use them the way we do? Keep reading to learn the complete history of fireplaces…

Close your eyes and imagine sitting in the perfect living room. What kind of couch are you sitting on? Is there a TV? Bookshelf? Fireplace? What do you smell and hear? Does this feel like a cozy space? When homeowners browse through homes on the market, many look for valuable features that make the house…

Do you want to make your home more eco-friendly? One of the best ways to do this is by looking at what you’re currently using to heat your home or the fireplace you use. Many people don’t understand whether gas or wood fireplaces are more eco-friendly. Dive into the information below to learn more about…

While chimneys are great additions that can make a home more cozy and pleasant, they can also pose a threat to your well-being if you don’t properly maintain the fireplace. A dirty chimney and fireplace can affect you and your family’s health. Familiarize yourself with the risks a filthy fireplace has on your health so…

A chimney liner is an integral component of your fireplace because it helps redirect the smoke from your fire out of your home. However, these components don’t last a lifetime, so you will need to replace them from time to time. Lets’ go over the signs that it’s time to replace your chimney liner with…

Typically, the fuel you burn in a pellet stove consists of compressed recycled wood fibers. You can add different types of pellets to a pellet stove, so which one is suitable for your appliance? Keep reading to learn the various fuels you can use in your pellet stove to determine which one is the best…

Cleaning the bricks in your fireplace is vital for strengthening your chimney’s integrity. The brick is very porous, so excess soot and ash can cause permanent damage to the structure. Use Chimcare’s quick guide to proper brick cleaning for the best-looking fireplace! Clear the Fireplace of Debris Before you begin any cleaning method, you must…

If you have a fireplace in your home, you know and understand how vital it is to maintain the structure. You can add a component to your chimney that makes it safer for your home—a chimney liner. But what are chimney liners, and why are they important? Read this guide to learn more about these…

One minute you might have a cozy, warm, and inviting fire, and the next, your room fills with a cold draft after the fire is out. It can be very frustrating to have a warm living room only for it to fill with cold drafts a few minutes later. If this occurs in your home,…

Imagine building a fire in the hearth of your fireplace only to realize it’s not producing enough heat or that smoke is accumulating inside your home. There could be several different issues that affect the performance of your fireplace. If you notice that your fireplace is not functioning correctly, it could be because of any…

Owning a fireplace can be a luxury—who wouldn’t want to spend their winter nights next to a warm and delightful fire? Or imagine waking up on the holidays to the crackling of a fire and the smell of wood. You can’t recreate these scenarios without adequately taking care of your fireplace first. As a homeowner,…

As a homeowner, you might get sick of needing to chop wood, build a fire, and wait for it to heat up all the time. Luckily for you, you can fix this issue by converting your wood-burning fireplace to gas. While it is possible to convert an already existing fireplace, you cannot convert an appliance…

If you’re using a pellet stove as your primary heating source for your home this winter, it is crucial to be familiar with the proper and essential maintenance steps. That way, you can ensure the appliance runs efficiently. Chimcare offers expert advice on cleaning and maintaining your pellet stove so you can heat your home…

Owning a fireplace is all about creating enjoyable experiences around the fire. This house feature is perfect for gathering family, cozying up with a good book, or taking a nap to the sounds of crackling and popping wood. Start using and enjoying your fireplace more by following Chimcare’s tips and tricks. It is important to…

Your fireplace is an important part of heating your home throughout the colder months. However, as snow and ice accumulate and build up over the months, it could increase the vulnerability of your chimney. You’ll need preventive measures to keep water out of the structure. Don’t allow this to get out of hand before permanent…

It will be wintertime in a few short months, and you’re likely preparing to use your fireplace. You must not light fires in the hearth until the chimney is fully ready, or you could be creating a dangerous environment within your home. Prep your fireplace this season with the following advice so you can burn…

Did you know that some types of wood burn better in your fireplace than others? Indoor fires are unlike campfires and require the use of a specific type of firewood that burns cleaner and hotter. Don’t make the mistake of burning whatever type of wood you have on hand. Find the best fuel for your…

Adding a fireplace to your home, regardless of the type, will allow the space to feel homier. Fireplaces add a touch of ambiance. If you’re deciding between gas and wood fireplaces, you must first know the differences to make the correct decision for your home. The choice will be up to you based on your…

Chimney cleaning can be messy and a hassle because the fireplace has hard-to-reach places. Many homeowners are searching for solutions to make the chore more straightforward and quicker. Find out below if creosote chimney sweeping logs are worth trying. What Are Creosote Chimney Sweep Logs? First of all, you need to understand what creosote is.…

There are many different tools a professional chimney sweep would use to clean your chimney. These devices are necessary to use on the job to ensure your fireplace is in working condition for the next upcoming season. Without them, you leave your chimney dirty with potentially hazardous substances and possible foundation and structural damage. Canvas…

Pellet stoves are an excellent option for heating your home and require far less maintenance than a wood-burning fireplace. You may be wondering, though, why you should use a pellet stove, what type of fuel it burns, how it works, and how to clean it. This complete guide gives you all the information you need…

Do you plan on installing a gas fireplace in your home? You need to understand the many key working components to properly service and run this type of device. While this isn’t a complete list, you’ll find the main and most essential parts that go into a gas fireplace below. Gas Firebox The firebox is…

Animals making their way into your chimney is not uncommon, especially in the summer months when you are no longer using it. Your fireplace makes for the perfect new home for these animals, and while most of them can exit on their own, others might not be able to and could eventually die in the…

The weather can be an unfriendly foe when it comes to heavy wind and rain damaging your chimney. While brick and mortar are known to last an extremely long time, severe weather and storms can wreak havoc on the structure. To better prepare your home and chimney for what can happen during a storm, become…

Cleaning a fireplace and chimney is much more complicated than you would initially expect. Your chimney faces various issues that you might overlook if you try to do the cleaning yourself. There are many benefits of hiring a chimney sweep professional, but we list the more important ones below. Professional Experience Not a single chimney…

Wood-burning fireplaces are traditional and classy, yet downright messy and high-maintenance. If you’re considering changing things up, allow us to convince you of the benefits of switching to a natural gas fireplace. You won’t want to turn back once you know the differences between gas fireplaces and traditional ones. If you are unsure about a…

You might be curious about what goes on when fireplace inspectors look through your chimney. Find out here what the inspection can entail. If you are an owner of a chimney, you must get an inspection annually to ensure your fireplace is in working condition and not hazardous. But, what do chimney and fireplace inspectors…

One of the bigger questions about different types of fireplaces is, “Do gas fireplace chimneys need to be cleaned?” While wood-burning stoves produce harmful buildups, gas fireplaces are different. Therefore, you need to care for them in other ways. Get to know the elements that make up a gas fireplace and what you need to…

A classy home always has a fireplace, but taking care of the chimney and other components is less than glamorous. Many dangers can occur when you own a fireplace, but many people also wonder, “Are chimney cracks dangerous?” Here’s what you need to know. How Do Cracks Happen? Your chimney can crack for various reasons.…

Before you purchase a home with a chimney or install it yourself, look at the common causes of chimney leaks and how to prevent them to ensure your chimney remains in pristine condition. A chimney adds class, elegance, and sophistication to any home. But the upkeep requires a lot of work, and you should prepare…

Have you found that your chimney may be tilting or leaning? A leaning chimney can actually mean a few things, but no matter the cause, not repairing the damage will cause more problems to the chimney and your home’s foundation. Take a look at why your chimney may be leaning. Your House is Settling It…

Owning a home with a chimney and fireplace adds a sense of coziness that most people enjoy. However, you must keep your chimney in tip-top shape to preserve the life of the fireplace and the safety of your home. Routine chimney cleaning is important if you plan on using your chimney most of the year…

Most people think that the terms “repointing” and “tuckpointing” are one and the same. Some of this is true. Their shared goal is to remove damaged mortar and replace it with new materials to stabilize the structure. However, they are relatively different when it comes to their brickwork aesthetic. If you notice that your chimney…

Watching for warning signs of a damaged or broken gas line is extremely important for the well-being of the environment and your house. Unnoticed leaks lead to a buildup of explosive concentrates and could even release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Here are a few basic warning signs to look out for. Rising Gas Bill…

The buildup in your chimney could be creosote—but what is creosote? Learn about the dangers of creosote and how to keep your chimney clean here.

Pellet stoves are fantastic additions to any home, but if you want to keep yours looking and operating its best, it’s important to schedule regular cleanings.

Try these gas fireplace service and maintenance tips at home to see how consistent upkeep and expert assistance can keep the whole system safe and functional.

If you own a fireplace but are unaware of the necessary upkeep, you should read this list today to learn how to keep your chimney clean and safe.

Many chimney problems are costly but avoidable if you know the signs. Use this comprehensive guide to learn the common signs your chimney may need repair.

If your pellet stove blows smoke into the house, you can use this guide to find the reason and the solution so you can prevent it from happening again.

If you want a fireplace but can’t tell the difference between a gas fireplace and a gas insert, you should read our guide to avoid buying the wrong option.

Read our guide to the most common chimney problems and their solutions, so you can better defend your home from flue fires, mold accrual, and more hazards.

Use these top methods to reduce creosote buildup in your chimney so that you can use the fireplace to improve your home instead of making it worse.

Chimneys keep your home clean and safe so that you can have fires or heat inside your home. There are many kinds of chimneys but here we will talk about roof chimneys for fireplaces and the American laws and certifications for services and repairs.

  Video Script Welcome to Chimcare Seattle.  At our Chimcare Seattle location our employees take really good pride in their work.  One of the things that sets up apart from our competition is that we have extremely loyal and solid employees who love their line of work that they do.  From our office staff to…

Winters in the Pacific Northwest can be brutal, and this one is sure to take its toll on you and your home — and even your chimney — if you don’t adequately prepare. Here are five reasons to call a chimney sweep before winter hits. 1. Prevent a Fire Burning wood causes a number of…

Summer has ended, and as the chilly winter months approach we find ourselves grabbing at blankets, turning up the thermostat, or, if we’re lucky, lighting the fireplace in our home. However, without the proper precautions to make sure your fireplace and chimney are in tip-top condition, your fireside fantasies could be more dangerous than cozy.…

Different types of fireplaces don't differ much in use — just follow the proper safety steps and set a log on fire. Installation does vary, though, and particularly so for zero-clearance fireplaces. We’ll explore the benefits of zero-clearance fireplaces as well as their installation process so that you know what to expect now, rather than…

You don’t need a cockney accent or a bowling hat to take care of your chimney — a little know-how and a helping hand from the best chimney sweeps in Cleveland will keep your fireplace roaring comfortably. With Chimcare opening a location in Cleveland, you now have easy access to consistently high-quality chimney maintenance and…

Wood smoke, combined with other forms of pollution, causes: Lung diseases, such as bronchitis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) Heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes Pneumonia Newer fireplaces and wood stoves lessen the amount of smoke that escapes into the air, minimizing the potential damage to the health of individuals, communities, and the…

If you are in the smoke reduction zone, it is illegal to operate or purchase an uncertified wood stove. This is true in both Oregon and Washington State. In Oregon, the law “requires removal and destruction of uncertified wood stoves and fireplace inserts when a home is sold. If a stove or insert is certified…

The short answer: because nobody wants to wake up to a fire. Why Clean Your Dryer Vent The National Fire Protection Agency stated that for each year between 2010 and 2014, roughly 15,970 home fires involved clothing dryers or washing machines. That comes to roughly $238 million in direct property damage per year, as well…

Leaky chimney culprits are generally one of four primary causes. Unless fixed, they all result in frustration and moisture damage. We’ll give you a list of what to look for if your chimney is causing you grief. If one of these issues is not your problem, chances are the chimney isn’t the offender. Broken Chimney…

Winter is the perfect time for families to gather in the evening around the hearth, enjoying the warmth and conviviality of a burning fire. Your fireplace doesn’t only encourage family time; as an architectural feature, your fireplace and its chimney add intrinsic value to your home. However, those same assets also present the very real…

Keeping your chimney and fireplace clean and in good working condition is essential for aesthetic, functional, and health-related reasons. A poorly-maintained fireplace or chimney can produce a chemical buildup, a gas leak, or even a fire risk that could put your home and your family's well-being in danger. A carefully maintained fireplace, on the other…

There's something beautiful and homey about a roaring fireplace, especially during the colder months and around the holidays. For many families, a fireplace can become a focal point for parties and even family game night. For single people or couples without children, a fireplace can be a source of romance on date night. Whatever your…

Stone walls, steps, and other masonry structures can add texture, color and interest to your landscaping. Learn about how masonry can improve your landscaping in this article.

Winter means curling up in front of your fireplace to enjoy the heat and the mesmerizing blaze, but if you’re not careful, it can also be dangerous. Follow these tips to stay safe this winter!

Get a step ahead of the maintenance for your home this winter by addressing these key home maintenance steps that many homeowners overlook.

Ice and moisture can wreak havoc on your chimney and masonry if you don’t protect the brick from the wet and cold. Learn more about winter chimney care in this article.

Chimney caps are a protective measure to add to your chimney, but they can cause issues in some cases. Learn more about the pros and cons of having a chimney cap in this article…

Inspections and the occasional repair can keep your masonry in top shape all year round! Find out when you should get masonry repairs to protect your home from moisture and leaks.

Ivy and other vining plants can cause some serious damage to your chimney and masonry. Learn about the dangers, as well as ways to prevent them in this article.

Chimney repair is a bit unusual if you live in a condo or townhome with an HOA. In some cases, the HOA will cover the costs to repair your chimney. Learn how here…

Will your homeowner’s insurance cover the cost to repair your chimney damage? Learn about chimney damage and insurance coverage in this blog article.

The brick and mortar of your chimney is susceptible to some serious damage if it isn’t waterproofed, since water can cause the masonry to crumble and even get into your home to cause more damage. This article outlines the things to be aware of with water and your chimney.

From the fireplace and creosote build-up, to cracked masonry and malfunctioning fireplace dampers, there are a variety of things to maintain with your chimney. This article identifies the top most common chimney problems so that you can address them if they happen with your chimney.

Learn about the risks of chimney fires, plus how to identify chimney damage and prevent chimney fires in this article.

Be sure to ask your potential masonry contractor about these key things before you hire them! Your chimney’s masonry is an important part of your home, and you don’t want to risk a poor job.

The crown of your chimney is an oft-forgotten, and yet very important aspect of your home. This is because it protects the masonry from water or snow getting absorbed into its pores, which can freeze and cause extensive damage to your chimney. Read more about your chimney crown in this article.

Roof flashing protects your home at a very vulnerable spot, where the roof meets the chimney. When the flashing is damaged or out of place, water can get under the shingles and cause serious damage. Learn more about the importance of roof flashing in this article.

When constructing a new home, it’s important to consider aesthetic as well as function when choosing the right chimney material. This article will help identify some of the more popular chimney materials to choose from.

Your fireplace is the centerpiece of your home regardless of the season. Even though your fireplace may not be blazing during the spring and summer months, you should still ensure that it’s well-maintained and clean in order to avoid serious problems in the future. Why Your Chimney Might Be Smelling Funky If a strange smell…

For many of us in the Pacific Northwest, the fireplace is one of our favorite spots in the home for the family to get together. We can share stories, play games, or just spend time together by the fire. However, sometimes we may forget about the important parts of a chimney that remain unseen, beyond…

Many of us who live in the Pacific Northwest are the proud owners of a home with a fireplace and a chimney. Often times, the fireplace is a nice spot for the entire family to get together and share quality time. Therefore, it is a good idea to keep your chimney tidy and well-maintained so…

Do you need a chimney liner? There are a lot of things to which we do not give much importance. But, in due time their need crops up urgently. One such thing is a chimney liner, which is probably not very popular yet. A lot of people feel that chimney liner is not a necessity…

Composting Wood Ash As we approach winter, more and more homeowners will begin firing up their wood stoves and fireplaces to both heat their homes and provide a level of comfort that can only come from a roaring fire. With so much activity, you’ll be producing a ton of wood ash. And fall is a…

Cleaning Your Wood Fireplace There’s nothing better than the warmth of a wood fireplace on a chilly winter night, but with summer in full swing, your fireplace may be the very last thing at back of your mind. However, the warm weather is the perfect time to get a fresh start on your fireplace and…

Chimcare Portland Masonry is a local, family owned company with over 20 years of experience helping residential and commercial property owners in Chimney Repair Portland Oregon in masonry repair and chimney sweep

Chimcare Portland Masonry is a local, family owned company with over 20 years of experience helping residential and commercial property owners in Chimney Repair Portland Oregon in masonry repair and chimney sweep

Dryer Duct Cleaning and Maintenance Many homeowners don’t know it, but a blocked dryer duct could cause a house fire in an instant. Imagine waking up in the dead of the night to find your house on fire, and then later finding out that your clothing dryer is the culprit. According to the National Fire…

Chimney sweeping and repair are essential to maintaining your chimney and keeping your home and family safe. Chimney Sweeping Chimney sweeps enhance the performance and safety of your chimney, while also thoroughly cleaning it and diminishing the fume emissions caused by blockages in the passageway. These blockages are often caused by creosote buildup, which forms…