•  How much is a chimney cleaning?

The price will vary from company to company.  Some questions to ask your chimney sweep, as it may effect that price. 
First, are the technicians that will be at my home Certified Chimney Sweeps?

Will you need to be in the house?  If no, your sweep is not completing the job. 

Does this price include an inspection? 

Do you visually or electronically (video scan) inspect? 

Are you a full chimney service company? 

Most will have insurance and will conduct the cleaning using dust free equipment.  These are helpful questions you may want to consider.  Not all chimney sweeps are the same.  Again, the price may be different for a reason.

•  How often should I clean my chimney?

An annual inspection of all chimneys should be a part of your home maintenance.  This will determine if a cleaning should be conducted.  ALL chimneys are exposed to the same weather conditions, no matter what the fuel is.  Most homeowners schedule the maintenance based on the amount of wood they burn in the fireplace or woodstove.  For wood burning appliances a general rule is after every cord burned and/or ¼ inch creosote build up.  Those that no longer use the fireplace or may only burn the holiday fires, don’t forget your furnace chimney is being used continuously.  With water heaters and boilers, all year long.  Mild winters may cause smokier fires and creosote build up is often heavier.

•  What is a chimney inspection and when do I need one?

An annual Level I inspection is required by the National Fire Protection Association.  It will consist of a complete evaluation of the interior and exterior.  From top to bottom, your chimney will be visually examined.  Any deterioration to mortar joints and your flue will be noted.  The crown is checked for any cracks.  The firebox area, including the damper and smoke chamber are also examined.  NFPA codes require inspections when replacing heating appliances or at the time property is transferred.  Insurance companies may require inspections for lightning or fire claims as well.  Level II and III inspections involve a more thorough examination and will be priced appropriately.

• Does my heating contractor inspect or clean my chimney?

In most cases, no.  However under the NFPA codes, they are required to notify you (in writing) of any possible chimney issues that may affect the safety and performance of your appliances.  This would include proper sizing, moisture, blockage of debris, adequate draft and the condition of your flue material.  Ensure your heating contractor removes and does check the thimble and base area during all routine maintenance.  Today’s high efficiency appliances require a reduced chimney size.  Have your heating company show you the chimney requirements from the manufacturer’s installation instructions.  These requirements do override code and may affect your warranty.  If you have replaced an appliance in recent years and are now experiencing water damage, your chimney may not be properly sized.  Your furnace or water heater installation may be the cause.

•  When is the best time to clean my chimney?

Spring.  After the heating season is over.  Remove the creosote to help prevent deterioration and uncomfortable smells throughout the humid months.  This will also allow you time to make any need repairs (masonry) prior to the next heating season.  It is traditionally easier to schedule an appointment during off peak times.  Discounts are available during this time as well.  Prevent damage, save time and money.  Ask us about our forward scheduling program.

•  Should I have chimney caps?

Yes.  All chimneys should be capped per NFPA code.  Often we see only fireplace chimneys with caps.  Caps will prevent rain and/or animals from getting inside your chimney.  Most homeowners fear chimney fires and the damages they may cause.  Water and moisture damages are far more common.  Waterproofing, crown sealer and caps play a vital role in chimney preservation.  In some cases, a cap will help prevent downdraft and/or increase your draft.


•  My damper is not moving, can it be repaired?  Does it really need to fully open and close?

We can sometimes repair dampers that appear to be “stuck” or have been lifted off their brackets.  Often they have been warped from excessive heat or rusted from moisture and need replaced.  Your best solution is to install a top mount damper.  The damper is located at the top of the chimney.  It is operated by a chain using a spring loaded system.  This system will help prevention of unwanted dangers inside the chimney when not in use.

•  What is a flue?

The passageway inside the chimney that allows gases to pass from the home to the outside atmosphere.  You may have one chimney with multiple flues.  Your furnace and fireplace can not share the same flue.  Codes require flues to be properly lined with approved material.

•  Do you have free estimates?

Yes.  Understand, an estimate is not the same as an inspection.  Our inspections do require a level of experience and education.  We do charge for inspections.  If you already fully know that you need a specific job, we will provide a no obligation proposal.  Your inspection fees, if any, can be included or deducted from the total job costs if the proposal is accepted.

Call us with any additional questions.  Most people do not fully understand chimneys.  As a result, you may not know what questions to even ask.  They usually begin with, “How much…..?”  We understand your fears and are here for all your chimney solutions.  We are often the last person that is contacted as a result of water damage, furnace venting, flashing problems, repointing needs, house pressure problems, etc.  Our inspections will provide you with a better understand of your chimney and help you make educated decisions on you future repairs.

“I will accept your proposal.  I was impressed with the company professionalism.  Your servicemen had uniforms, identification and attractive well marked vehicles.  The whole package was very nice…”