The Hidden Dangers of Soot Buildup During Burning Season

November 10, 2025 | Chimney Basics

When the temperatures drop and fireplaces and wood stoves become part of your daily routine, it’s easy to focus on comfort and warmth. But what often goes unnoticed is the accumulation of soot inside your chimney system—a seemingly minor issue that can quickly become a serious safety hazard.Whether you burn wood occasionally or rely on your fireplace or stove throughout the season, keeping your chimney clean and inspected is essential. Here’s what you need to know about soot buildup, the risks of neglecting chimney maintenance, and why working with a certified chimney professional matters.What Is Soot, and Why Does It Build Up?Soot is a fine, powdery black substance made primarily of carbon. It’s created as a byproduct of incomplete combustion—when wood or other fuels don’t burn completely. It rises with smoke and attaches to the interior walls of the flue, collecting over time with each fire you burn.Factors that contribute … Continued

How Florida Weather Wears Down Your Chimney (And Why Maintenance Matters)

October 1, 2025 | Chimney Basics

Florida’s climate is uniquely tough on chimneys and fireplaces — whether you have a traditional masonry chimney or a factory-built (prefabricated) system. Even if you rarely use your fireplace, the environment alone can cause wear and tear that leads to costly problems if not addressed.Think of your chimney like your car: even if it spends most of its time parked, it still needs routine maintenance. You wouldn’t skip oil changes and expect your car to last forever, right? The same goes for your chimney or fireplace system.Below, we’ll explore how Florida weather impacts both masonry and factory-built chimneys — and the steps that help protect them for the long run.High Humidity = Hidden DamageMasonry Chimneys: Florida’s constant humidity seeps into bricks and mortar. Over time, this weakens the structure, causes cracks, and can create musty odors.Factory-Built Fireplaces: Excess moisture encourages rust and corrosion on metal fireboxes, dampers, and liners, shortening … Continued

What Is Organic Growth on Your Chimney — and Why Is It Important to Remove?

September 16, 2025 | Chimney Maintenance

As the weather changes and moisture levels rise, you may begin to notice green, black, or mossy patches forming on your chimney. While this might seem like a harmless or natural occurrence, this organic growth can lead to serious issues if not addressed properly.At Chimney Champions, we believe in educating homeowners about potential risks to their chimney systems. Here’s what you need to know about organic growth and why it’s important to have it professionally removed.What Is Organic Growth?Organic growth on a chimney typically includes:MossAlgaeMildewMoldThese organisms thrive in damp, shaded environments—conditions often found on the north-facing sides of chimneys or in areas with poor ventilation. While it might initially appear to be a cosmetic concern, the underlying impact can be much more significant.Why Is Organic Growth a Problem?1. Moisture RetentionOrganic growth traps moisture against the brick and mortar. This ongoing exposure can weaken masonry over time, causing issues like brick … Continued

Why Chimney Inspections Should Be on Every Real Estate Agent’s Radar

July 31, 2025 | *Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

When helping a client purchase a home, your role as a real estate agent is more than facilitating transactions—you’re guiding them through one of the most significant investments of their life. While home inspections are a standard part of the closing process, one crucial component is often overlooked: the chimney.The Overlooked Danger Lurking OverheadChimneys may not be top of mind during a walkthrough, but they play a vital role in both safety and property value. A faulty chimney can be a fire hazard, a source of carbon monoxide poisoning, or an avenue for costly structural damage. That’s why chimney inspections, especially for older homes or those with wood-burning fireplaces, should be a standard recommendation in your real estate checklist.What Can Go Wrong with a Chimney?Here are just a few potential issues that a proper chimney inspection can uncover:Creosote Buildup: This flammable byproduct of wood burning can ignite and cause chimney … Continued

3 Ways to Improve Chimney Airflow

November 21, 2024 | Chimney Basics

Ensuring your chimney is in top-notch condition is a high priority for every homeowner. A well-performing chimney not only keeps your home warm but also guarantees safety by efficiently directing smoke and gases out. At Chimney Champions, we understand the significance of optimal chimney airflow. So, we’re here with some tips on how you can improve chimney airflow in your home.

3 Ways to Tell if Your Chimney Is Leaking

June 19, 2024 | Chimney Basics

As a homeowner in Jacksonville, FL, staying on top of home maintenance tasks is no small feat. One crucial area to watch is your chimney. Unfortunately, chimney leaks can cause serious damage if left unchecked. But how do you tell if your chimney is leaking? Chimney Champions has some thoughts on the matter, including the repairs process. Keep reading to learn more.

3 Chemicals To Avoid When Cleaning Your Fireplace

February 13, 2024 | Chimney Maintenance

No matter how often you use your fireplace, eventually, it must be cleaned. This is a crucial duty, not just for aesthetics, but for maintaining a safe and functional hearth. However, it’s imperative to be aware of the chemicals that can do more harm than good. Your friendly chimney sweeps from Chimney Champions are here to explain which chemicals to avoid when cleaning your fireplace.

Why Get a Chimney Inspection Even if You Don't Use It

3 Reasons to Get a Chimney Inspection Even if You Don’t Use It

December 13, 2023 | Chimney Inspections

If you own a home with a chimney, you may think that it only needs to be inspected by Chimney Champions if you use it. However, this is a common misconception that can lead to serious problems down the line. Let’s look at three reasons why you should get a chimney inspection even if you don’t use your fireplace.

What is the Life Expectancy of Your Chimney?

September 11, 2023 | Chimney Basics

A chimney is a crucial component of any home that uses a wood-burning or gas fireplace. However, like any other part of your house, chimneys have a finite life span. Thankfully, your yearly inspection from Chimney Champions can help determine the condition and life expectancy of your chimney. With this knowledge, you can make proper repairs and prepare for when your chimney does need to be replaced.

3 Common Types of Chimney and Fireplace Repairs

July 20, 2023 | Chimney Maintenance

Your chimney is an essential part of your home. But did you know your chimney requires proper maintenance and repairs to function efficiently? A damaged or deteriorating chimney can lead to several problems, including fire hazards and health concerns. So, let’s look at a few common types of chimney repairs that Chimney Champions can make for you!