For Chimney Sweep & Fireplace Repair Services in Schenectady, Call On Central Masonry & Chimney
Schenectady is a city known for its rich history, its revitalized downtown, and its strong connection to the industrial and innovation boom of the early 20th century.
One of the city’s premier attractions is Proctors Theatre, a historic venue that hosts Broadway shows, concerts, comedy acts, and films. Schenectady Museum of Innovation and Science (miSci) is another popular spot, as is Central Park Rose Garden, Vale Park & Cemetery, and Stockade Historic District.
Love a waterfront area? Then, Mohawk Harbor is the place for you. Visitors can take a boat ride, enjoy waterfront dining, attend a nearby event, and check out the many shops and outdoor spaces in the area.
And we can’t forget to mention Schenectady Greenmarket, a well-loved, open-year-round farmers’ market. Located downtown right near City Hall, this is one of the best places to get some local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
Schenectady’s mix of historical significance, cultural venues, and outdoor spaces makes it a great destination for those interested in history, the arts, and nature. If this is the place you’ve chosen to call home, make sure your house stays in the best shape possible by working with us for chimney and fireplace services. We’d love to travel to you soon!
We Offer Financing
Chimney, Masonry & Installation Services: What Do We Offer?
What Should I Do if I Notice a Smoky Smell in My Home When the Fireplace Isn’t in Use?
Fireplaces are meant to offer a welcoming, warm, and aesthetically-appealing ambiance…and they shouldn’t be stinking up your space with a smoky smell. If you notice a smoky smell in your home when the fireplace isn’t in use, it could indicate a few underlying issues, so don’t ignore it!
Rather, call us in right away, so we can check for drafting issues, blockages, moisture problems, damages, and more. There are a number of things that can cause a chimney to smoke, so getting to the root of the issue(s) – and resolving any problems quickly – is a must. Our professionals will know where to look, what to look for, and how to address any issues quickly.
What Are the Main Causes of Chimney Odors?
Unfortunately, there are lots of reasons a chimney may be stinking things up, whether it’s mildew-y moisture-related issues, too much creosote, a drafting problem, or something else. Here are the most common culprits:
- Creosote Buildup: Creosote, a byproduct of burning wood, can accumulate inside the chimney and emit a strong, smoky, sometimes campfire-like odor – particularly strong in humid or rainy conditions.
- Moisture: Rainwater or moisture entering the chimney can mix with creosote and other debris, creating musty, unpleasant smells. In addition, excess moisture can cause mold or mildew to form, thus inviting odors related to that.
- Negative Air Pressure: Changes in air pressure inside the home can cause air from the chimney to be pulled into the living space, bringing chimney odors with it. This often happens in homes with poor ventilation or tightly sealed windows and doors.
- Animal-Related Debris: Birds, rodents, or other animals may nest in your chimney or leave behind debris. This can not only block proper airflow, but also cause foul odors if the animals die or leave droppings.
- Soot & Ash Residue: Leftover soot, ash, and wood particles can linger in the fireplace and chimney, causing odors to seep into your home over time.
- Outdoor Elements: Debris like leaves, twigs, and nests can create some pretty foul odors as they sit and break down. If you have these clogged up in your flue, it won’t be long until you notice some smells in your living space.
If you need help, don’t suffer through it – call us in to find the issue.
How Can I Prevent Chimney Odors?
By now it should be pretty clear that if you notice any chimney odors, getting a professional in to check things over right away is a must. That said, avoiding odor-related issues altogether is always the better option, right? Here’s some strategies to ensure just that:
- Invest in annual maintenance. Be sure to schedule those recommended annual inspections and cleanings with a professional chimney company to ensure any excess creosote, soot, and debris is removed – and not stinking up the place.
- Invest in a quality chimney cap. Since chimney caps keep out rain, debris, and animals, they play a big role in helping you avoid all those things that are notorious for causing foul odors.
- Maintain good airflow and ventilation. Improve the overall ventilation in your home to prevent negative air pressure that can draw odors from the chimney into your living space. Use exhaust fans and open windows when necessary.
- Have any gaps and cracking areas sealed up. Inspect the chimney and surrounding areas for any cracks or gaps where odors may escape. Have an expert seal and repair any openings to prevent odors from entering your home.
- Burn only seasoned wood in your fireplace. Use properly seasoned firewood when using your fireplace. Unseasoned wood can create more creosote and produce stronger odors.
- Close your damper when not lighting fires. Always ensure that the damper is closed when the fireplace isn’t in use to prevent outside air (and odors) from entering your home.
All in all, the better you take care of your fireplace and chimney over the years, the better it’ll run for you whenever you need it. Invest in care with us to ensure your system stays odor-free and working efficiently with every season. We’re here and happy to help.
Work With the Best – That’s Us
When it comes to investing in chimney sweep and fireplace repair services for your home in Schenectady, it can be hard to know who to trust. Fortunately for those in the area, Central Masonry & Chimney is a reliable team that guarantees satisfaction and quality results – every time.
Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to ensuring your chimney and fireplace are running as safely and efficiently as possible. We are here to provide top-notch service tailored to your needs. Don’t let chimney issues compromise your home’s comfort and safety – contact Central Masonry & Chimney today to schedule your service and enjoy peace of mind knowing your fireplace is in expert hands.
Central New York
(315) 429-7315
Capital District
(518) 371-0155
Hours
Monday- Friday 7AM – 5PM
See What Our Customers Have To Say
We deliver top-notch professional chimney and masonry services to all parts of our service area, including Clifton Park.