Frequently Asked Questions

Chimney sweeping is the process of cleaning the interior of a chimney to remove creosote buildup, soot, and debris.  Chimney sweeping is necessary to prevent chimney fires, improve indoor air quality, and ensure proper ventilation. 

It is recommended to get your chimney swept at least once a year, especially if you use it regularly.

We prioritize the cleanliness and safety of your home. Our technician will ensure that your home remains free from soot and dust. We take meticulous care in laying protective drop cloths over your carpets and flooring, and our technicians use a HEPA Filtered Vacuum throughout the cleaning process to maintain a clean environment. Our team will begin the inspection and cleaning of the fireplace/firebox, up through the damper system, smoke shelf, smoke chamber, chimney flue, and exterior chimney cap. Each fireplace cleaning and inspection will take approximately 90 minutes of your time, during which our technicians will conduct a thorough inspection and cleaning.

A chimney cap provides vital protection for your home, fireplace, and chimney system, helping to prevent damage, improve efficiency, and enhance safety. 

• Prevents Water Damage: A chimney cap helps keep rain and snow from entering your chimney. Over time, moisture can erode the masonry, leading to costly repairs. Water can also cause rust and damage to the chimney flue lining, affecting the safety and efficiency of your fireplace.
   
• Stops Debris Blockages: Leaves, twigs, and other debris can easily fall into an uncovered chimney, potentially causing blockages that obstruct airflow. A chimney cap keeps your flue clear, preventing dangerous situations like smoke backing up into your home.
   
• Animal Protection: Birds, squirrels, and other small animals can enter an open chimney, creating a nest or even causing a blockage. A chimney cap acts as a barrier, preventing animals from entering and ensuring that your chimney remains clear and functional.
   
• Improves Efficiency: A properly installed chimney cap can help improve the draft, which is the upward movement of smoke and gases. By controlling airflow, it can help your fireplace burn more efficiently and reduce the amount of heat loss, improving the overall performance of your system.
   
• Fire Safety: A chimney cap with a spark guard can prevent sparks from escaping the chimney and landing on your roof or nearby combustible materials. This is especially important in preventing chimney fires from spreading.

 A chimney liner is a protective layer that lines the interior of your chimney/ appliance flue. It can be made from various materials, including clay tile, stainless steel, or aluminum, and serves several critical functions.   A chimney liner is an essential component of your fireplace, stove, or appliance system, ensuring safety, improving efficiency, and extending the lifespan of both your chimney and your home. 

 Potential Indications For A New Liner 

• Cracked or Crumbling Masonry: Cracks in your chimney’s masonry or pieces of mortar falling, could be a sign that your fireplace or appliance liner is damaged, deteriorating, or non-existent.
• Poor Ventilation: If your fireplace isn’t venting properly, producing excess smoke, or causing backdrafts, it may be due to a compromised chimney flue and/or liner.
• Soot Buildup: Excessive soot buildup in comparison to usage could be a sign that your chimney isn’t venting efficiently. 
• Chimney Fire/ High Heat Event: If you have experienced a chimney fire/ high heat event, it is paramount that you have your fireplace and chimney inspected for potential damage to the flue system.

When buying or selling a home, it's important to have the fireplace and chimney thoroughly inspected and cleaned. Neglecting necessary repairs or failing to address potential issues can not only lead to expensive repairs down the line but can also create serious safety hazards for both the new owners and the home itself.

While home inspectors do an excellent job of evaluating the visible aspects of chimneys and fireplaces, many do not have the specialized tools or expertise needed to fully assess the functionality and safety of these systems. A standard inspection often overlooks hidden issues such as creosote buildup, blockages, or structural damage that could render the fireplace unsafe to use.

If you're moving into a new home, we strongly recommend having the fireplace and chimney professionally cleaned and inspected before using them. This ensures that the systems are in proper working order, up to code, and safe for your family’s use.