What Causes Summer Fireplace Damage
Posted in Gas Fireplace Repair, on August 16, 2023
Winters tend to be the time of year to use and maintain your fireplace. Nevertheless, summer has its own set of challenges regarding your fireplace. Fireplace Experts can assist in any required fireplace repair services, from weather conditions to infestations. Learn how to clean, maintain and enjoy your fireplace from the expert advice of our fireplace professionals. If you are searching for fireplace maintenance, contact Fireplace Experts to complete the job.
Learn about common causes of fireplace damage in the summer by reading below.
Weather and Water Damage
Vented gas fireplaces can open doors to a number of different damage culprits.
- Humidity: it’s a given that fireplaces are an extremely hot area which can lead to moisture if not aired out. Due to the warm summer weather and excess humidity comes the risk of rust due to the numerous metal parts that make up a fireplace.
- Rain: Lately, Toronto has been experiencing a lot of rain in the summer months, which can affect the state of your fireplace. With wind and rain, the rainwater can enter the vent for your fireplace, promoting possible damage.
When this occurs, it’s essential to call for fireplace maintenance to remediate the problem as soon as possible.
Mold and Soot
Due to the lack of ventilation, the humid environment is a mold-thriving area. It’s dark and damp, making it difficult to detect the growth. If using your fireplace during the summer, air it out after putting out the fire. Also, be sure to inspect your fireplace every once in a while to catch mold growth early on.
Fireplace soot is a black powder that is produced when there is wood that has not completed combustion. Cleaning out your fireplace after each burn is crucial to remove the soot and keep the area clean. Inhalation of fireplace soot can cause damage to your lungs, as well as cause damage within your fireplace, in which case you have to call for a fireplace repair.
Lack of maintenance on the chimney can affect the fireplace.
Some gas fireplaces have a chimney. If your fireplace has one, it’s also essential to maintain that. Chimneys are typical for small rodents and pests to nest due to the enclosed and cozy environment. This will lead to their droppings being left, debris being brought in, and animal-made damages from biting, for example. When noticed, look for other entry points besides the chimney entrance, as mice and other small rodents typically find smaller entryways.
Protecting Your Fireplace
To prevent these damages as much as possible, try the following:
- Schedule regular fireplace inspections
- Turn off the pilot light to eliminate excess heat
- Clean your fireplace at least once a year, more if you notice excess dirt
- Air out your fireplace after each use to prevent built-up humidity.
Fireplace Repairs with Fireplace Experts
At Fireplace Experts, we ensure quality service for each customer we visit. By providing expert advice, we leave fireplace owners satisfied. Whether you need an installation, makeover, or maintenance in the GTA, call Fireplace Experts.