Cold Snaps & Cozy Fires: Why Fireplace Maintenance Matters Most This Season

January 28, 2026 | Chimney Cleaning

As temperatures drop and cold snaps roll in, fireplaces across our community quickly become the heart of the home. There’s nothing better than gathering around a warm fire during the coldest months — but this is also the time when fireplaces and chimneys work their hardest. At Chimney Champions, we want to remind homeowners that regular fireplace maintenance is especially important during peak burning season.When a fireplace is used frequently, soot and creosote build up faster inside the chimney. Creosote is a highly flammable byproduct of burning wood and is one of the leading causes of chimney fires. During cold snaps, many homeowners burn longer, hotter fires, which can accelerate this buildup and place added stress on chimney systems — especially factory-built fireplaces that rely on metal components and decorative panels.Routine chimney inspections and cleanings help ensure your fireplace is operating safely and efficiently. Maintenance allows potential issues — such … Continued

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

The Best and Worst Types of Wood to Burn in Your Fireplace — And Why It Matters

August 18, 2025 | *Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

There’s nothing like the warmth and crackle of a real wood-burning fire. Whether it’s for ambiance or home heating, your fireplace can be a cozy focal point — but only if you’re burning the right kind of wood.Using the wrong firewood can result in excess smoke, poor heat output, creosote buildup, and even dangerous chimney fires. Below, we break down the best and worst types of wood to burn — and why choosing the right firewood is so important for your safety and comfort.Best Types of Firewood for a FireplaceThe best wood for burning is seasoned, dry hardwood. These woods burn longer, cleaner, and produce more heat with less smoke.1. OakOak is one of the most popular firewood choices. It burns slowly and produces steady, high heat. However, it must be properly seasoned — usually 12 to 24 months — for best performance.2. MapleMaple burns cleanly and gives off good … 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

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.

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.

How to Increase Your Chimney’s Lifespan

March 10, 2022 | Chimney Cleaning

While most chimneys are durable, many won’t last the lifespan of the home. Unfortunately, this leaves many homeowners spending big to replace or repair them. So, how can you extend the life of your chimney? We’re glad you asked! While regular inspections from Chimney Champions help, there are some other things you can do to prolong the life of your chimney.

Why should my chimney be waterproof?

September 7, 2021 | *Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

If you live right here in Jacksonville, FL, then you know we’re blessed with plenty of sunshine and warm weather. However, we’re not immune to the occasional thunderstorm and downpour. If your chimney isn’t waterproof, then you could experience significant water damage in both your stack and your roof. But why is a waterproof chimney necessary if the downpours come and go? Chimney Champions is here to answer this, as well as other commonly asked questions we get from homeowners throughout the area.