DIY Network

Fireplace and Chimney Tips for checking and maintaining your home's fireplace and chimney From "Home Maintenance" episode DHMW-104

In this final segment host Tim Hockenberry tackles two hot topics--your home's fireplace and chimney. He shares tips on the proper maintenance before and during the cold-weather months.

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Figure A

Materials:

Screwdriver
Cement patch
Flashlight
Metal bucket

Maintain Fireplace and Chimney

• Check the chimney flashing.

• Check the bricks and mortar to make sure it is intact.

• Remove any plants or moss growing between the bricks.

• Check the chimney crown and fill any cracks or gaps with cement patch.

• Remove the chimney gap and check the flue liner for damage or obstructions.

• Check the fireplace for cracks or damage to the firebox.

• Look up the flue liner to look for creosote build up (figure A).

• Remove the ashes with a flat shovel and dispose in a metal bucket. Ashes can be scattered on compost pile or in the garden.

• Have your fireplace professionally cleaned every year.

• Check the damper for proper operation.

• To clean stains in the firebox use chemical cleaner with a metal brush.

Extra Tips:

• Stuffing fiberglass insulation into cracks will stop air filtration. Right? Wrong. Fiberglass is a good insulator and makes a great furnace filter, but it doesn't stop air infiltration. It may slow it down some, but caulk or a closed cell foam is the best way to stop air filtration.

• Check in the crawl space to make sure the insulation is intact and that no critters have set up winter camp.

• It is always a good idea to replenish flashlight batteries. Winter brings ice storms and power outages.

• While you are at it, test the smoke alarm and replace the batteries if you are not sure the last time they were changed.

• Make sure you have stocked up on winter supplies before the first big snow storm arrives -- a good snow shovel, ice melt and scrappers.

• And finally, after a big snow, you should check around the attic and basement for leaks.

DIY Home Maintenance Seasonal Checklist "Take Care of Your House and It Will Take Care of You!"...and you can start by printing out DIY's PDF checklist file.