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The Frank & Sons Blog
Practical, no-nonsense guidance on chimney and fireplace care for Pittsburgh-area homeowners — from cleaning and inspections to leaks, masonry, liners, and seasonal maintenance.
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Chimney CleaningHow Often Should You Have Your Chimney Cleaned in Pittsburgh?
Homeowners often hear that a chimney should be cleaned every year, but inspection and cleaning are not exactly the same thing.
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Chimney InspectionsChimney Inspection vs. Chimney Cleaning: What’s the Difference?
Cleaning removes soot, creosote, and certain debris.
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Chimney InspectionsDo You Need a Chimney Inspection Every Year?
Regular inspection is a practical way to catch changes before fireplace season.
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40 guides for Pittsburgh-area homeowners, organized by topic.
Chimney Cleaning
Chimney Inspections
Chimney Safety
Fireplace Care
Pittsburgh Homeowner Guides
- Buying a Pittsburgh Home With a Fireplace? What to Check Before You Use It
- Why Do So Many Older Pittsburgh Homes Have Closed-Off Fireplaces?
- Can an Old Pittsburgh Fireplace Be Made Functional Again?
- Old Fireplaces in Pittsburgh Homes: What Are You Looking At?
- Why Western Pennsylvania Winters Are Hard on Brick Chimneys
- How Freeze-Thaw Cycles Damage Pittsburgh Chimneys
- Can You Install a Gas Insert in an Old Pittsburgh Fireplace?
Chimney Leaks
Chimney Crowns & Caps
Chimney Repair
- What Is Chimney Spalling and Why Are My Bricks Flaking?
- White Stains on Chimney Brick: What Efflorescence Can Mean
- Crumbling Mortar: Repair, Repoint, or Rebuild?
- What Is Chimney Repointing and When Is It Needed?
- Tuckpointing vs. Repointing: Is There a Difference?
- Chimney Repair vs. Rebuild: How Do You Know Which You Need?
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