Hey Winton neighbors!
As the humid summer air from the Chowan River starts to give way to that crisp autumn chill, our thoughts turn to cozy evenings by the fire. But before you light that first log of the season, let's talk about the unsung hero of your home: your chimney. Here in Hertford County, our chimneys face a unique set of challenges that require a little local know-how.
Winton's Humidity: A Chimney's Hidden Foe
That heavy, damp air we know so well isn't just for the dog days of summer; it's a year-round issue for your chimney's masonry. Brick and mortar are porous, meaning they absorb moisture. Throughout the year, and especially during our wet winters with their occasional freeze-thaw cycles, this moisture can cause serious damage. You might see white, chalky stains on the brick (efflorescence) or, worse, find the brick faces flaking off (spalling). This weakens the entire structure and can create leaks.
Local Tip: Ask a professional about chimney waterproofing. It's not a paint, but a vapor-permeable sealant that lets existing moisture out while preventing new moisture from getting in. It’s one of the best investments you can make for a chimney in our humid climate.
Caring for Winton's Historic Homes
Many of us are proud to live in Winton's beautiful, older homes. That historic character is priceless, but it can also mean your chimney might not be up to modern safety standards. Many older chimneys were built without a liner. An unlined chimney allows dangerous heat and creosote to seep into the surrounding structure, creating a major fire hazard. It also exposes the old brickwork to corrosive gases that eat away at the mortar from the inside out.
Local Tip: If you've just moved into an older home or you're unsure if your chimney has a proper liner, a Level 2 video inspection is essential. This gives a clear picture of the flue's interior condition and is recommended by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) anytime a property changes hands.
Unwanted Guests: From Squirrels to Swifts
Our area is rich with wildlife, and to a squirrel, raccoon, or bird, an open chimney flue looks like a perfect, pre-built tree hollow. Nests and debris can completely block your chimney, preventing smoke from escaping and forcing deadly carbon monoxide back into your home. It also creates a tinderbox of dry leaves and twigs just waiting for a stray ember.
Local Tip: A professionally installed chimney cap is the most effective way to keep animals, leaves, and rain out of your flue. It's a simple, affordable solution to a very dangerous problem. Remember, Chimney Swifts are federally protected, so if you have them nesting, they must be allowed to leave on their own in the fall before any work is done.
Your annual chimney inspection and sweep isn't just a cleaning—it's a comprehensive safety check tailored to the needs of your Winton home. By addressing our local climate and housing challenges, you can ensure your fireplace is a source of warmth and comfort, not a worry. Stay safe and warm this season!