Get matched with top fireplace pros in Corydon, IA

Even if you aren’t using a home chimney anymore, you need to vent it at the top and bottom to allow for continuous airflow. A blocked-up chimney is still a chimney, so it requires annual maintenance and a professional inspection to ensure its structural integrity is intact. Consult a chimney professional about the ideal timing for venting an unused chimney.

Your chimney needs a structurally sound chimney cap, protective lining, damper, chimney flashing, and brick and mortar to prevent water from goind down your chimney. A pro can help you identify where the issue is so that you can stop water from coming down the smoke shaft, through your damper, and into your home.

Chimney liners often benefit from insulation, though it is not always required. Insulation helps improve the liner's efficiency by keeping flue gasses hotter, which enhances draft and reduces creosote buildup. It also prevents condensation, which can lead to corrosion. Insulation is important for chimneys on exterior walls or in colder climates. Some building codes may require insulation, so checking local regulations is essential.

To ensure your wood stove heats the whole house, measure the square footage of your home and choose a wood stove designed to heat that amount of space. More efficient wood stoves, such as those made of soapstone or those with catalytic combustors, can more easily heat larger spaces for less money.