Chimney Cleaning and Inspection

We all know preventative maintenance is more cost effective than repairs that could have been avoided. The National Fire Protection Association Standard 211 building code requires all “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.”

Several types of deposits found in chimneys require cleaning and removal. Animal debris (nesting material, dead animals, and feces), deterioration deposits (brick, tile chips, mortar sand, and creosote) are most common. Removal of these deposits from gas venting chimneys are most critical to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning that causes immediate and long term illness and even death.

The black creosote deposits from burning wood that collect on the interior calls of a flue also require routine cleaning attention. Creosote is a very concentrated volatile fuel when ignited. Laboratory tests have shown interior flue temperatures can rise above 2000 degrees in just a few minutes when creosote ignites causing a chimney fire. The sudden rise in temperature can shock a masonry chimney causing cracks and rapid deterioration. Excessive heat radiating from the chimney can cause nearby combustibles to ignite. The importance of regular chimney maintenance cannot be over stressed. If you do experience a chimney fire call 9-1-1 for emergency fire department assistance.

After a chimney fire it is very important to have the whole flue system thoroughly cleaned and inspected by a Chimney Saftety Institute of America Certified Chimney Sweep. Cleaning and Inspections consist of:

– Remove dangerous creosote (chimney fire fuel)

-Determine chimney integrity

-Catch problems in the early stages, before they cause expensive repairs

-Expose chimney safety problems preventing hassles and potential law suits if the property is for sale or rent

-Reassure peace of mind

Our equipment is specifically desiged for chimney cleaning. Drop cloths are placed in front of the fireplace and hearth. Our chimney vacuum will prevent soot or debris from entering the living area while the flue is scrubbed with special wire brushes. If creosote buildup is extra thick and hard or glazed, our electric RO-CLEAN rotary brush system may be used to do the dirty work. We are very thorough, neat and guarantee no mess.