FAQ
How often should you get your Chimney cleaned?
We recommend a chimney should be cleaned at least once a year. We also recommend that you have your chimney inspected and cleaned after burning one cord of wood as a rule of thumb. The variety of wood and your woodburning system will greatly effect the amount of creosote found in the flue.The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends that the chimney should be cleaned when there is approximately 1/8” of soot buildup.
How would a homeowner know if there is 1/8” of built-up soot in their chimney?
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It is very difficult for a homeowner to know if there is built-up soot in their chimney. A professional chimney sweep can examine the chimney and determine if the chimney should be cleaned. The chimney sweep will also be able to examine the chimney liner for any cracks or damages.
When is the best time to get the chimney cleaned?
The best time of year to have your chimney cleaned is summer or fall before the cooler months begins so that your system is ready for the cooler months. A homeowner should never neglect having the chimney cleaned. Removing creosote, soot and debris from the chimney will keep your chimney safe and performing properly.
there are 3 different levels of inspection warranted for different situations.
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Level 1 inspection
A Level 1 chimney inspection is the most basic – and most commonly needed – type of chimney inspection. Level 1 inspections are recommended for homes when the fireplace is not experiencing any issues and has not changed in any way or been damaged.
During the inspection, a certified chimney sweep will visually inspect all accessible portions of the interior and exterior of the chimney. This also includes examining the masonry for signs of water damage as well as checking the flue for potential creosote buildup.
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Level 2 inspection
A Level 2 chimney inspection gives technicians a more in depth look at your fireplace and chimney system. Level 2 inspections are recommended when there has been a change to your fireplace system. This can include adding an insert, switching fuel sources, having the chimney relined, or damage from a natural disaster such as an earthquake. Likewise, a level 2 inspection may be required if you are preparing to put your home on the market.
A video scan using cameras may be used during a Level 2 chimney inspection. This can give technicians a more complete look at the difficult to access parts of the chimney and flue. In addition, surrounding areas such as crawlspaces, basements, or attics may need to be accessed.
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Level 3 inspection
A Level 3 is the most in depth and invasive type of chimney inspection. Level 3 inspections are typically only recommended in cases of serious structural damage, such as a chimney fire or other catastrophic event. A Level 3 inspection often involves removing part of the chimney such as the chimney wall or chimney cap. Oftentimes, this may cause damage to the walls, ceilings, or siding of your home. Because of this, Level 3 inspections are not taken lightly and are only recommended when seriously needed.
How Does Chimney Cleaning work?
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Chimney Cleaning Process:
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Top Down (Rod Method) This process of cleaning is completed on the top of the roof. We use the chimney brush to clean the interior flue lining. The chimney brush is connected to flexible fiberglass rods, which are added as we work down the chimney in order to complete the entire chimney sweep.
Bottom Up: Your chimney is cleaned from the inside of your house – your fireplace or wood stove – up through the chimney opening. There are cases where this is the best method for dust control purposes or chimney accessibility. Our goal is to produce the best results for you and your home by supplying tarps and drop cloths to ensure the cleanliness of your home. We guarantee no mess to your home. When the cleaning process is completed, a visual inspection of the system is performed for basic safety and function of hearth product. We also provide an optional video scan the flue upon the clients request, or automatically in a real estate transaction.