Frequently Asked Questions About Chimney Cleaning and Repair

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 A: Whenever you enjoy a fire in your fireplace, whether you’re burning wood or fire logs, small flammable particles are created and carried up into the chimney with the smoke. If not removed, these particles can build up on your chimney’s walls and easily cause a chimney fire.

A chimney fire can cause a cracked chimney liner and can allow flames to access the surrounding walls and roof, where the fire can easily spread. Having your chimney regularly cleaned, however, can prevent these types of events from occurring.

A: According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard 211, “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.”

Even if you aren’t using your chimney on a regular basis, animals can build nests inside of the flue, and other types of decay or deterioration can occur and lead to safety issues.

The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) also recommends regular cleanings, suggesting that when soot buildup has reached ¼”, it’s time to clean – if glazed creosote is present, the cleaning needs to happen even before this.

The best way to know when it’s time to have your chimney swept is to schedule an inspection annually.

 A: Yes! Even though gas is considered a clean burning fuel, a gas appliance and chimney can still encounter blockages or other problems. An annual inspection is a must, regardless of fuel type. 

A: Creosote is a substance that occurs when fuel is not burned completely. This flammable deposit can be incredibly dangerous, especially when in its stage 3 form, which is waxy, shiny, and black. Creosote at this stage is also much more difficult to remove, but regular cleanings can prevent this buildup. 

A: Chimney caps are important because they work to keep things like rain, birds, leaves, squirrels, insects, and other things from entering your chimney system. If allowed in to your chimney system, animals, insects, and moisture can cause serious damage and increase health and safety risks. 

 A: Smoky fireplaces and stoves can be a result of several things:

1. If it’s a result of creosote buildup, animal nesting materials, or another flue blockage, have the chimney cleaned.
2. It’s possible your damper is closed. Double check to make sure that your damper is properly opened.
3. Your flue may be too small for your fireplace. Try placing a 4” to 6” wide strip of aluminum foil above the fireplace opening. If the aluminum foil reduces or stops your smoke problem, you may simply need to have a Smoke Guard or a draft induction fan installed.
4. Your chimney may be too short. If this is the case, we can extend your chimney.

 A: Creosote deposits are typically responsible for fireplace odor, especially in the summer when humidity is high. In addition to a good cleaning, you may need to use a commercial chimney deodorant, baking soda, or even kitty litter. You may also need to have a top-mounted damper installed, and you’ll want to have the chimney checked for leaks. 

 A: Air pressure problems are typically to blame. To resolve this issue, you will need to add makeup air to the home or install a top-sealing damper on the least used chimney. 

 A: If you have a chimney fire:

1. Call the fire department.
2. Evacuate those in your home.
3. Do not use your appliance until you’ve had it professionally inspected and approved for safe use.