A Reading homeowner called Mikey's Chimney because the dryer was not working properly. During our inspection and internal dryer vent cleaning, we found nest material blocking the exterior vent and restricting airflow.
We removed the nest material, cleaned the dryer vent run, and checked the vent from inside and outside. A blocked dryer vent can cause long drying times, excess heat, and lint buildup.
Safety update, September 13, 2026: the original account described a bird guard screen at the exterior termination. Dryer exhaust terminals must not have screens, which can collect lint and obstruct airflow. The Massachusetts residential exhaust chapter adopts the 2021 IRC without amendments; section M1502.3 requires an exterior termination with a backdraft damper and prohibits screens. Read the Massachusetts exhaust provisions and 2021 IRC dryer exhaust requirements.
The exact termination product used in this historical job still needs verification. The earlier endorsement of a screen has been withdrawn. The original photos are retained as a record of the reported work and do not establish that the termination is compliant or that corrective work has been completed.
If your dryer vent has a screen or is not exhausting properly, have the termination checked against the appliance instructions and applicable requirements before further use. Contact Mikey's Chimney for dryer vent cleaning and repair guidance in Reading.
