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 Hiring a Certified Chimney Sweep Matters: Protect Your Home, Your Wallet, and Your Peace of Mind

August 27, 2025 | Chimney Inspections

When it comes to home maintenance, the chimney is often overlooked. But the reality is that an improperly maintained chimney can pose serious risks—from fire hazards to structural damage and even carbon monoxide exposure. That’s why hiring a certified chimney sweep is not just a smart choice—it’s a critical one.Unfortunately, the chimney industry has seen a rise in unqualified, uninsured, and non-certified contractors offering discounted services to gain access to your home. These companies often use low prices as bait and may deliver substandard, unsafe work. As a homeowner, it’s important to know what you’re really getting.The Problem with Low-Cost “Deals”Many companies advertise extremely low prices for chimney inspections or cleanings. Once inside your home, they may attempt to upsell services you don’t need or perform work that is incomplete—or outright unsafe.Worse, many of these contractors are:Not certified by recognized industry organizationsOperating without proper insuranceLacking technical training and safety knowledgeNot … Continued

Chimney Swifts: What They Are, Why They Matter, and Why Your Chimney Needs Professional Care

August 15, 2025 | Chimney Inspections

As we are in the warmer months, chimney swifts are in their annual migration and nesting season across North America. These small birds often find their way into residential chimneys, using them as nesting sites during spring and summer. While they may seem harmless, chimney swifts can bring serious health and fire hazards if chimneys are not properly maintained.Here’s what you need to know about chimney swifts, their seasonal activity, and why proper chimney cleaning and inspection by a certified company like Chimney Champions is essential.What Are Chimney Swifts?Chimney swifts (Chaetura pelagica) are small, fast-moving migratory birds that are often seen darting through the sky at dusk. They were once known to nest in hollow trees and caves, but today, chimneys serve as their primary nesting structures in urban and suburban areas.These birds are unique in that they are unable to perch like most other birds. Instead, they cling to … Continued

Hurricane Season & Your Chimney: Why a Chimney Service is More Important Than Ever

August 5, 2025 | Chimney Caps

Being in the midst of hurricane season many homeowners prepare their properties for severe weather. Windows are reinforced, trees are trimmed, and emergency supplies are stocked. However, one critical part of the home is often overlooked: the chimney.Your chimney plays a major role in your home’s safety and structure. Without proper maintenance—especially ahead of heavy rain and high winds—it can become a source of significant water damage and costly repairs. Now is the ideal time to schedule a professional chimney sweep and inspection.Chimneys Are Especially Vulnerable During Storm SeasonChimneys are fully exposed to the elements, making them particularly susceptible to damage from high winds, rain, and airborne debris. If your chimney hasn’t been recently inspected or cleaned, it may already have vulnerabilities that could be worsened by a major storm.Without proper sealing, a chimney can become a direct pathway for water intrusion, which can have serious consequences.How Water Intrusion Damages … Continued

What Makes a Chimney Inspection So Unique?

February 18, 2025 | Chimney Cleaning

At Chimney Champions, we understand the importance of keeping your home safe and warm, especially during the cooler months. While you might not think much about your chimney, it plays a major role in protecting your property and family. That’s why our professional chimney inspections stand out. But what exactly makes a chimney inspection so unique? Let’s talk about it.

How to Remove Fireplace Ash Without Making a Mess

January 19, 2025 | Chimney Cleaning

Nothing beats the warm and inviting glow of your fireplace on a chilly winter evening—until it’s time to clean up. The leftover ash can seem like a messy nightmare, but don’t worry! Chimney Champions is here to show you how to remove fireplace ash without turning your living room into a dusty disaster. With these tips from our chimney sweeps, you’ll keep your fireplace tidy and enjoy it season after season.

Why Your Chimney Needs Swept this Winter

December 21, 2024 | Chimney Basics

If you’re a homeowner in Jacksonville, FL, you know that winters can be surprisingly chilly, with cooler days and even cooler nights. And what’s better than snuggling up by the fireplace on a cold winter night? But before you light that first fire of the season, have you thought about when was the last time your chimney was swept? As much as we love cozy nights by the fire, it’s important to make sure our chimneys are well-maintained and safe. That’s why we at Chimney Champions are here to help you determine when to get your chimney swept.

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.

Why Get a Chimney Inspection Following a Hurricane

4 Reasons to Get a Chimney Inspection Following a Hurricane

October 24, 2024 | Florida

Hurricanes are a familiar threat to us, with high winds and relentless rain posing a risk to homes across the region. Chimney Champions knows firsthand how critical it is to ensure that all parts of your home are in good condition following severe weather events. One often overlooked area is the chimney. Below, we explore four reasons a post-hurricane chimney inspection is essential for homeowners.