Smelly chimneys are more common than you think, especially during the hottest months of the year. Every summer, our experts care for plenty of stinky chimneys. There are multiple cause for this unpleasant chimney odor. However, you can trust our Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)-certified chimney sweeps to find the source of the odor and solve this problem. We would like to tell you more about some of the causes for a smelly chimney and ways to get rid it.
CREOSOTE
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, then there is a good chance there are creosote deposits stuck on your inner chimney walls. This compound has a distinctively strong odor that worsens with heat and humidity. Developing naturally as a fire burns, creosote is the residue from smoke, gases, and other byproducts of combustion. It can accumulate to form large deposits, which are very smelly and hazardous.
Creosote is highly flammable. The CSIA has named it a leading cause of chimney fires. This emphasize the importance of getting your chimney professionally swept each year. Our CSIA-certified sweeps will make certain to thoroughly clean your chimney. They will work very hard to ensure every bit of creosote is removed to make your fireplace safe and odor-free.
BIRDS AND WILD ANIMALS
Another cause for stinky chimneys is wild animals such as birds, bats, squirrels, raccoons. They can nesting inside your flue and leave behind hazards that are not only dangerous but can also cause lots of stink. Their nesting materials can be smelly, and they can also leave behind droppings that are quite odorous. Birds or animals can also become trapped and die inside your chimney, and that odor is unbearable. Our professionals can help you avoid this situation by installing a chimney cap with metal mesh sidings to prevent critters from entering the flue.
WATER LEAKS
If you have been noticing a musty mildew odor from your chimney, there is probably a water leak. If your chimney is uncapped, you could have standing water inside your firebox or in the smoke chamber. There also may be leaves, dirt, and other debris mixing with the water, which can lead to an odor problem in your chimney.
You chimney could also have possible mildew and mold growth, which is very hazardous for the health of you and your family. All Seasons Chimney can do a water leak inspection to see exactly where the problem is. We will also give you a written explanation of the damage with photographs along with a fair and honest estimate of the repair and preventive services for your chimney. We specialize in keeping water out of your chimney with chimney caps, customized flashing, and waterproofing.
Don’t let a smelly chimney ruin your summer! Contact us today at to schedule our professional chimney services.