How do I know if my chimney is safe?

• <div><p>There are a few things you can look out for to ensure your chimney is safe to use. Check for the following issues:</p><ul><li><p>Cracks or missing pieces in the masonry of the chimney</p></li><li><p>Creosote buildup in the chimney, which is a black, tar-like substance</p></li><li><p>Cracks, stains, or scorch marks in the firebox</p></li><li><p>Water stains in or around the fireplace</p></li><li><p>A broken or stuck damper</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Should a chimney be sealed?

• <div><p>Chimneys should either be sealed or waterproofed, which is different from sealing off—closing at both ends—a chimney. Waterproofing and sealing are both crucial steps to take to prevent water damage and the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/chimney-leaking-inside-house.htm">chimney leaking inside the house</a>. While waterproofing is more comprehensive, both help safeguard your chimney, extending its life span and preventing expensive repairs. </p></div>

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Q: Should an unused chimney be sealed or capped?

• <div><p>Yes, you should seal and cap an unused chimney to protect it from damage. Sealing the structure helps prevent moisture damage, which can lead to issues like cracks, spalling, efflorescence, and damaged mortar joints. Capping the chimney is also crucial to prevent blockages, damage from invasive critters, and downdrafts, while still allowing for proper air ventilation to manage moisture. For the best results, consult a chimney professional to select the right type of chimney or flue cap for your home. It's also wise to continue with annual chimney inspections to maintain the structure's integrity.</p></div>

Q: Can wiring a light switch wrong cause a fire?

• <div><p>Wiring a light switch wrong can cause a fire if the incorrect wiring causes arcing, meaning the current jumps uncontrolled from one conductor to another. Loose wires or worn wires that are not repaired or replaced can cause arcing. If you&rsquo;re not 100% sure you can do the job safely, don&rsquo;t attempt to wire a light switch on your own.</p></div>

Q: Do I also need a cricket for my chimney?

• <div><p>In addition to flashing, a roof cricket can help divert water around your chimney so that it drains properly off your roof. It&rsquo;s shaped like a double triangle and is installed behind the chimney so that falling water spills evenly down each side. This helps prevent water from accumulating behind your chimney, which can increase water damage and the risk of leaks. </p><p><a href="https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IBC2021P1">The International Building Code</a> (IBC) requires cricket installation if a chimney built after 2012 measures over 30 inches in width. Chimneys constructed before that date are typically grandfathered in and aren&rsquo;t required to have crickets installed.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Fire Pit Installation pros in Andrews, SC

*The Angi rating for Fire Pit Installation companies in Andrews, SC is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Fire Pit Installation needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Fire Pit Installation companies in Andrews, SC is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Fire Pit Installation needs.

Last update on June 12, 2025

Reviewed in June 2025
Rafael and professional and curteous. Very pleasant and kind even educating ne about ny roof project. Would certainly recommend Roofing Pups
Salty Dog Roofing and Siding
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Reviewed in March 2025
Eric and his team were fantastic! Everything went fast and smooth and they were so friendly and easy to work with. He communicated with me the whole time when I wasn't there. I can't say enough good things about them. Would definitely hire again.
Reel Time Excavation
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Reviewed in December 2024
Terry did an awesome job. It was cold and very breezy that day but he got the job done. My garage looks brand new. Thanks Terry, I'll call you for my next project!!!
TK Ventures, LLC
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Reviewed in July 2024
The crew did a great job. They worked very well together. Thank you Josh h, Jeremy, Austin M, Cody, Phil and Sean. Very well done
West Shore Home Myrtle Beach
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Reviewed in June 2024
The project was top notch. Not only did they consistently show up on time, but they finished the project early and were willing to reschedule the final walkthrough multiple times to accommodate our schedule. Final project turned out great!
Reyes Estrada Welding
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Reviewed in May 2023
This contractor is very good at what he does.
NuRevive, LLC
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Reviewed in March 2023
I manage an apartment complex, so the plumbing needs we encounter are varied. However, from my introduction to this firm in 2020, they have become my salvation. No matter the problem, after hours emergency, this company responds, and responds with clear competency, expertise and excellency in...
Simmons Maintenance Services
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Reviewed in December 2022
The project was top notch great job
Hustle 2 Flow Plumbing
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Reviewed in October 2020
At this point of the process, everything has been great!! Installation starts tomorrow and I'm super excited!!
Ready set remodel
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Reviewed in April 2018
Been over a year and still not installed properly. Installed without proper permit and failed inspections. I wouldnt recommend to anyone. Too much hassles and no consideration for your time and money. Wish I would have used my second choice Briggs and Stratton.
Oak Electric Service, Inc.
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Fire Pit Installation questions, answered by experts

Yes, you should seal and cap an unused chimney to protect it from damage. Sealing the structure helps prevent moisture damage, which can lead to issues like cracks, spalling, efflorescence, and damaged mortar joints. Capping the chimney is also crucial to prevent blockages, damage from invasive critters, and downdrafts, while still allowing for proper air ventilation to manage moisture. For the best results, consult a chimney professional to select the right type of chimney or flue cap for your home. It's also wise to continue with annual chimney inspections to maintain the structure's integrity.

There are a few things you can look out for to ensure your chimney is safe to use. Check for the following issues:

Cracks or missing pieces in the masonry of the chimney
Creosote buildup in the chimney, which is a black, tar-like substance
Cracks, stains, or scorch marks in the firebox
Water stains in or around the fireplace
A broken or stuck damper

Wiring a light switch wrong can cause a fire if the incorrect wiring causes arcing, meaning the current jumps uncontrolled from one conductor to another. Loose wires or worn wires that are not repaired or replaced can cause arcing. If you’re not 100% sure you can do the job safely, don’t attempt to wire a light switch on your own.

In addition to flashing, a roof cricket can help divert water around your chimney so that it drains properly off your roof. It’s shaped like a double triangle and is installed behind the chimney so that falling water spills evenly down each side. This helps prevent water from accumulating behind your chimney, which can increase water damage and the risk of leaks.

The International Building Code (IBC) requires cricket installation if a chimney built after 2012 measures over 30 inches in width. Chimneys constructed before that date are typically grandfathered in and aren’t required to have crickets installed.

Chimneys should either be sealed or waterproofed, which is different from sealing off—closing at both ends—a chimney. Waterproofing and sealing are both crucial steps to take to prevent water damage and the chimney leaking inside the house. While waterproofing is more comprehensive, both help safeguard your chimney, extending its life span and preventing expensive repairs.

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