Hello, Ashland neighbors!
There's nothing quite like the charm of our town, the "Center of the Universe." From the historic homes near Randolph-Macon College to the lovely newer neighborhoods, we take pride in our properties. As the seasons change, a cozy fire is part of that classic Virginia lifestyle. But is your chimney ready for the job? As your local chimney experts, we’ve put together a guide specifically for Ashland homeowners.
Our Unique Ashland Climate and Your Chimney
Virginia's weather isn't always kind to masonry. Our famously humid summers and the winter's freeze-thaw cycles create a perfect storm for chimney damage. That moisture soaks into the bricks and mortar. When temperatures drop below freezing, the trapped water expands, causing cracks and flaking—a process called spalling. You might also see white, powdery stains on your brick, which is called efflorescence. This is a sure sign your chimney is absorbing too much water. A professional waterproofing treatment can be a game-changer for protecting your chimney from our specific climate challenges.
Historic Brick vs. Modern Builds
Ashland boasts a beautiful mix of architecture, and each style has different chimney needs. If you live in one of the gorgeous older homes downtown, you likely have a classic brick chimney. Many of these were built without a liner, which is a critical safety feature today. An unlined chimney is a significant fire hazard and allows corrosive gases to eat away at the mortar from the inside. We strongly recommend an inspection to see if a stainless steel liner is needed to bring your historic chimney up to modern safety standards.
For those in newer homes, you might have a prefabricated or metal chimney system. While durable, these systems aren't immune to problems. Seals can fail, chase covers can rust (especially with our rainy seasons), and components can become disconnected. An annual check-up is just as important for these modern systems.
Local Critters and Debris
We love our lush trees in Ashland, but they bring leaves, twigs, and a whole lot of spring pollen that can clog your chimney flue and cap. More importantly, our area is home to wildlife that sees your chimney as a perfect nesting spot. Squirrels, raccoons, and birds can create dangerous blockages. A special note on Chimney Swifts: these birds are federally protected. If they've made a home in your chimney, they must be left alone until they migrate in the fall. A sturdy, professionally installed chimney cap is the best way to prevent all these blockages and keep critters out for good.
Your Ashland Chimney Checklist:
- Annual Inspection: The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends a yearly inspection. This is the single most important thing you can do.
- Look Up: Periodically, walk outside and look for visible signs of trouble like cracked bricks, crumbling mortar, or that white efflorescence.
- Install a Cap: If you don't have one, get one. It's your first line of defense against water and animals.
- Know Your Fuel: Only burn seasoned, dry hardwood. Burning wet wood or trash creates excessive creosote, the flammable buildup that causes chimney fires.
Keeping your chimney in top shape is about more than just maintenance—it's about protecting your family and your beautiful Ashland home. Stay safe and warm!