Hey Windsor Hills neighbors,
As a chimney sweep working right here in the Roanoke Valley, I know there’s nothing better than the sight of the mountains on a crisp autumn day. It’s the signal to get ready for cozy evenings by the fireplace. But before you light that first fire, let’s talk about some chimney safety issues specific to our beautiful neighborhood.
Our homes in Windsor Hills face unique challenges that you won't see in a generic safety blog. Here’s what you need to know:
The Roanoke Valley Freeze-Thaw Cycle
Our winters are famous for their temperature swings. One day it’s freezing rain, the next it’s sunny and melting. This constant freeze-thaw cycle is the biggest enemy of your chimney’s masonry. Water seeps into tiny cracks in the bricks and mortar, freezes, expands, and slowly pushes everything apart. This process, called spalling, can cause bricks to flake and the chimney crown to crack, creating a direct path for water to damage your home’s structure.
Local Tip: After a wet winter, take a walk outside and look at your chimney. Do you see crumbling mortar or flaking brick faces? A professional waterproofing sealant designed for chimneys can be a lifesaver, preventing this moisture absorption in the first place.
The Charm (and Challenge) of Mid-Century Homes
Many of the wonderful brick homes in Windsor Hills were built between the 1950s and 1970s. While they have incredible character, their chimneys often have original clay tile flue liners. After 50+ years of heating and cooling, these tiles can crack or deteriorate. A cracked flue liner is a serious fire hazard, as it allows intense heat to transfer to the combustible framework of your house.
Local Tip: If you’ve just moved into a classic Windsor Hills home or haven’t had an internal inspection in years, I strongly recommend a Level 2 inspection. We use a specialized camera to scan the entire length of your flue, giving you a clear picture of its condition. It’s the only way to know for sure if your liner is sound.
Our Leafy Streets and Curious Critters
We all love the mature oak and maple trees that line our streets. But those beautiful trees drop a ton of leaves, and they’re home to some very resourceful squirrels and birds. An uncovered chimney is an open invitation for a nest. A blockage from leaves or nesting materials is extremely dangerous. It can cause smoke and, more importantly, deadly carbon monoxide to back up into your home.
Local Tip: Every Windsor Hills chimney should have a properly fitted, professional-grade chimney cap. It not only keeps rain and snow out but also features a screen (a spark arrestor) that prevents animals from getting in and stops embers from landing on your roof.
Taking these local factors into account is key to enjoying your fireplace safely all winter long. A little preventative maintenance goes a long way in protecting your home and family. Stay warm and safe this season!