How often should I have my chimney cleaned?

Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances. Cleaning, maintenance, and repairs shall be done if necessary. This is the national safety standard and is the correct way to approach the problem. It takes into account the fact that even if you don’t use your chimney much, animals may build nests in the flue or there may be other types of deterioration that could make the chimney unsafe to use. Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)

What does a chimney inspection entail?

In regard to the inspection, we want to make sure that nothing is missed. That’s why we have state-of-the-art camera scanning equipment that we run up your chimney. When the chimney inspection is complete, you’ll receive a full, visual report detailing findings, actions, and results of the inspection and/or cleaning.

For realtors and their clients, we also provide Level 2 chimney inspections, which are required for a home sale/purchase.

When should I get my chimney cleaned?

Spring is the best time of year to have your chimney cleaned. Once September comes, nearly every reputable chimney company has a waiting list that is weeks or even months long! But even if this weren’t so, spring would still be the best time of year to get your chimney inspected and cleaned. The first thing to understand is that chimneys only get dirty when they are used. Creosote is a flammable substance that builds up in fireplaces and needs regular cleaning to prevent the risk of having a chimney fire. Because you don’t use the fireplace all summer, there’s no possibility of creosote building up before the fall. If a chimney is not used, it will be exactly as clean six months later as the day you cleaned it.

Do you also provide chimney repair services?

Yes! We are a full-service chimney sweep and repair company and can help you with any chimney repairs if needed.

After our CSIA Certified chimney sweep completes the chimney inspection and cleaning (if a cleaning is needed), we will provide you with a quote for any needed immediate repairs. We pride ourselves on helping our customers save money by recommending to them what repairs can wait and what repairs should be addressed right away in order to prevent more expensive damage in the future. If your chimney doesn’t require any repairs, it will be stated in the inspection report that your chimney passes inspection.

What can I expect when scheduling a chimney cleaning?

If you heard the word “soot” and are worried about the cleanliness of your home, we understand your concern. But there’s no need to fret.

Our team is highly trained in customer service – we know how to leave your home in the same immaculate condition that we found it. We cover everything in the room with fresh sheets and tarps to catch escaping debris, and each technician wears fresh covers over their shoes so they won’t leave any footprints behind. We can even lay down tarps from the front door to the fireplace to help keep your home clean.

Why is an inspection and chimney cleaning important?

An Inspection and chimney cleaning ensures that your chimney is free from any and all potential fire hazards, including creosote buildup and blockages created by animal nests and other debris. These hazards can lead to your chimney’s premature deterioration, and if ignited by the intense heat of the flames, can start a chimney fire. An inspection will also identify any structural or interior damage to the chimney that poses a danger to your home.

What is a chimney cleaning?

A chimney cleaning is a process of removing creosote from your chimney’s flue system to prevent chimney fires. In addition to your annual inspection, having your chimney cleaned is one of the best things you can do to protect your home and family. Over time, creosote and other combustible byproducts, produced by your crackling fire, can build up inside your chimney’s flue system. If there is a significant amount of buildup, typically ⅛ inch, your chimney will need to be cleaned. Otherwise, you run the risk of a chimney fire.