Is There Something Spooky Lurking In Your Chimney?
Halloween is creeping up on us, which makes any spooky noise trigger thoughts of hauntings, ghouls, ghosts and witches. Have you heard spooky sounds coming from your chimney? Could something spooky be lurking behind the bricks? It could be a normal sound, enhanced by the season, or it could be something much spookier! You don’t need to call the Ghostbusters for the sound in your chimney; you need to call Advance Chimney Sweeps!
Common Spooky Chimney Sounds
Expanding and Contracting Metal
Many chimneys in the Pittsburgh, PA region contain metal components. Those components may make clicking or scraping noises as the cold weather causes them to expand or contract. This is a normal part of having a chimney! Unless the sound is rather loud or constant, there is no need for concern.
Noises Made by Structural Issues
Another cracking or scraping sound similar to that of the expanding and contracting metal is structural noise. This is spookier than a ghost! These sounds could indicate that your bricks are crumbling, cracking, or falling apart within your chimney. This needs to be inspected, swept, and repaired right away before it turns into a leaning, leaky, or other larger issue for your chimney.
Chimney Liner Damage
A damaged chimney liner can cause a popping or cracking noise when you have a fire going in your fireplace. This is a signal of danger, because it warns you that a fire could start in your chimney! This could spread from the damaged liner to the rest of your home very quickly.
Extinguish the fire and call a chimney sweep before you use it next.
If your chimney is rumbling and the extinguished fire doesn’t stop it, evacuate your home immediately. Then call 911!
Gusting Ghouls
Many of the sounds down your chimney are caused by the blowing of wind. The wind makes bellowing, moaning, whooshing, and whistling noises as it rushes through your chimney. It can be even stranger if you have an animal nest or other blockage in the flue. This noise can be increased if you are missing a chimney cap, need your cap adjusted, or leave your chimney damper open.
Ravens, Bats, and Black Rats
It is Halloween, so the creepy frights are taking flight! Your chimney may have become a shelter for all kinds of small animals. Bats, rodents, birds, and more may be lurking inside your chimney to escape the cooling weather of the season. Their caws, scratches and nests may be causing your spooky chimney sounds.
How to Banish your Chimney Haunts
Most noises or spooky sounds in your chimney are harmless, but not every one! Make sure you are scheduling your annual chimney inspection. This allows the professionals to identify any issues early, so that your chimney is safe and ready for use. It is also time to get your chimney swept and complete any repairs you may need before the chill of winter sets in.
Advance Chimney Sweeps has been a premier chimney service provider in Greater Pittsburgh for over three decades. Our certified chimney professionals will be glad to schedule your chimney inspection, sweep, and repairs.
