FAQs
Why Does a Chimney Need Cleaning?
As a fireplace burns it create a dangerous, flammable material that slowly builds up within the chimney, called soot and creosote. While the fireplace is made to hold fire, the chimney is only meant to act as a vent for the fire. When a fire starts in the chimney it can spread to the outside of the home and become engulfed in flames.
What Is Creosote?
When we come out to inspect your chimney, we are looking for any potential signs of damage to the flue or the structure. What we are mainly looking for, and what we clean, is creosote. Creosote is a tarlike substance that accumulates within the chimney when you burn. When it combines with soot it becomes extremely flammable. Once creosote has built up to thick your fireplace is unsafe to use until the problem has been resolved.
How Often Should the Chimney Be Cleaned?
We recommend getting your chimney cleaned once a year–no matter what. Even if you only use the chimney a couple times a year, there may be other buildup in the flue that may cause risk for a chimney fire. Get a complete inspection and cleaning of your chimney before winter. This may also allow you to get a head start on repairs early in the season
How Long Does it Take To Clean My Chimney?
Depending on the type of system you have a chimney cleaning can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. With years of experience we have found the most efficient ways to get your systems cleaned and out of your house so you can move on with your day.
Will Getting My Chimney Cleaned Make a Mess?
The short answer is no. We will layout drop clothes in the house to cover your floors. We use a state of the art HEPA vacuum that is specially made to catch the fine particles that get into the air when cleaning your chimney. Your house will be left as clean as when we got there, but your chimney will be cleaner.
Do I Need a Chimney Cap?
A chimney cap prevents excess water from entering your chimney and the damage that is caused to the flue. It also is useful in keeping out any unwanted critters like birds, squirrels, raccoons and bats that may see your chimney as a good home in the summer. They can block proper ventilation, leave debris that may be flammable in your chimney, and even enter your house.