Preventing and Treating Mold in a Fireplace & Chimney

With the cold temperatures here to stay, you might turn to your fireplace for warmth as you enjoy the holidays. One thing you may not think about as you start a fire in your den is the possibility of mold growth. Luckily, we’re here to examine what causes mold growth in your fireplace and chimney, plus what can be done to eliminate it so you can be prepared this winter.

What Causes Mold in a Fireplace & Chimney?

While there can be other factors, the biggest catalysts for mold growth in your fireplace and chimney are moisture and a lack of ventilation. When debris like leaves get stuck in your fireplace, the condensation from your fires gets blocked and creates moisture. Likewise, water can leak in thanks to cracks or blockages in your chimney. Regardless of how the moisture builds up, mold can thrive in this situation and spread rapidly if you aren’t vigilant. We recommend checking your chimney and the surrounding area for cracks and debris in addition to having professionals examine your chimney a couple of times each year.

How to Clean Mold in Your Fireplace

Cleaning mold in your fireplace can be tricky and professionals should be consulted if the mold has expanded beyond the fireplace and into the chimney. If you are up to the challenge, grab an antifungal cleanser, a wire brush, and a mask due to the potential health risks.

As for cleaning the fireplace, use a flashlight to establish where the mold is located. Once you have determined how widespread the issue is, you can grab your antifungal cleaner and brush. From here, simply apply the cleanser to the designated spots and scrub until the mold is removed.

Contacting Mold Medics

If you want to call in the professionals for your mold removal needs, Mold Medics is here to help. We are proud to offer pet-safe, child-safe, and people-safe mold remediation services. Our personable and dedicated team will even walk you through the treatment process and answer any questions you may have so you know what to expect. Contact us today for a FREE quote.