Two outdoor chairs and a table sitting near a lit fireplace.

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A technician in a black uniform cleans a fireplace, using tools and a vacuum. Blankets protect surrounding surfaces.

Annual Maintenance Checklist for Chimney: Keep Your Fireplace Safe & Efficient

It's getting colder here in Portland and you might be thinking it's time to fire up the chimney. Before you do, force yourself to do a safety check of your fireplace system.

A black brick fireplace with gold-framed glass doors is set against a light-colored wall and hardwood floor.

Guidelines for Safe Fireplace Use at Home

Everyone loves fireplaces. They create something magic in a routine space. Fireplaces are a cherished feature in many homes, providing warmth and a cozy ambiance during our cold Portland winters.

Close-up of a chimney emitting smoke from the top, with a background of blurry, muted-colored scenery. The chimney is set on a tiled rooftop.

Critical Signs Your Chimney Needs an Inspection

While it's easy to hire someone to fix your chimney, knowing when it needs repairs isn't always easy, especially if you're new to it. Even if you're unfamiliar with chimney maintenance, it's important to recognize when to call in a professional.

A person wearing a black shirt and cap cleans a large glass fireplace, surrounded by tools and a partially covered area.

What Influences Your Chimney Repair Costs

When one of our chimney technicians comes out to your house, they are looking down a specific list of errors to determine what your chimney system needs in order to run safely. Chimney repair costs depend on several key factors.

Two workers are standing on scaffolding next to a tall building. One worker, in a neon vest, is at a lower level while the other has raised both arms on the upper level.

Safe Chimney Cleaning Methods Explained

Chimney cleaning is an important aspect of home maintenance. Skipping these important tasks neglects your home's safety and energy efficiency.

A green-painted wooden fireplace with intricate detailing and a brick interior, set against a striped yellow wall. A white air purifier and fireplace tools are nearby.

Ensuring Safety with Properly Lined Chimney Flues

Protect Your Home with Properly Lined Chimney Flues At Portland Chimney & Masonry Inc., we take pride in safeguarding homes in the Pacific Northwest with our chimney repair and chimney sweep services.

A close-up view of a brick chimney with a red clay liner at the top, seen from above. Roofs of nearby buildings and parked cars are visible in the background.

How to Fix a Leaking Chimney: Expert Solutions

A leaking chimney can cause significant damage to homes and could lead to water infiltration in attics and walls.

A construction worker in protective gear is working on a brick chimney; he is holding a tool, and there are metal ducts and a white bucket labeled "Chamber Safe" nearby.

How to Find the Best Chimney Repair Company in Portland

Maintaining a safe and efficient chimney requires the expertise of a professional chimney sweep, especially in Portland's damp climate.

A brick chimney emits smoke atop a green metal roof under a cloudy sky.

The Most Common Chimney Repair Issues in Portland, Oregon

Chimneys in Portland face unique challenges because of our damp climate and the recent slew of icy storms that have hit us on an annual basis over the last few years.

The Crucial Role of Smoke Chambers in Chimney Safety

Why Your Smoke Chambers Matter: Preventing House Fires with Proper Chimney Maintenance Chimney safety is a crucial concern for homeowners, especially in neighborhoods like Sunnyside, where older homes often feature traditional fireplaces.