Annual cleaning and inspection of your chimney and furnace are imperative to keeping your home exhaust system running safely and efficiently. We take this very seriously and we’ll make sure your chimney is functioning properly

According to almost 15,000 nationwide homeowners, the average chimney sweep cost is $225. The typical chimney cleaning cost is between $124 and $327. Wood fireplaces that receive regular maintenance price $85 to $100 per cleaning. Those with build-up from years of neglect could total as much as $800. Using a wood-burning fireplace in the winter can lower your electric bills, not to mention its cozy appeal. However, smoke in your chimney leaves behind ash and carbon residue. This residue needs to be removed periodically because it can lead to chimney fires, carbon monoxide leaks and lack of airflow to the outside.

What Does a Chimney Sweep Include?

Your chimney sweep service will include a safety inspection and cleaning, along with a condition report. The level of inspection will depend on how long it has been since your last service and whether there are structural concerns. If issues are seen, an estimate will be provided for repair.  We clean from the inside up, brushing the flue/chimney.

Regular sweeping services will prevent the above issues. Creosote is a combustible residue created by burning wood. Excessive creosote buildup along your chimney flue is a serious hazard that could lead to a chimney fire and damage to your home.

Inspection

It’s hard to determine when your chimney needs cleaning. Most of us aren’t equipped with the proper tools for inspection and there is no cut-and-dry time for everyone because use of the fireplace varies. The National Fire Protection Association recommends at least one annual cleaning. If you use your chimney nightly, you will need more frequent service than a neighbor who uses theirs weekly.

Additional Chimney Services

Your chimney sweep may find that there are other issues that need to be fixed. They could also find that there are ways to improve your chimney to minimize creosote and maximize efficiency. Some of these will be easy and affordable, while others will cost thousands and involve days of labor.

The metal firebox is lined with panels that look masonry.  These are manufactured with high thermal properties.  The purpose is to withstand high heat of a fire.  Cracked refractory panels or fire bricks in the firebox are a safety hazard, as the cracks expand during a fire.  The heat can transfer to the metal, causing it to warp, weaken or create a fire hazard.  All panels / bricks should be replaced.  However, patching with fireproof mortar can be done (but not recommended).

Dampers are an important means of directing smoke up and out of the chimney and preventing downdrafts. If your damper is damaged or warped, you’ll want to replace it. A warped damper could be pulling your indoor air out and decreasing your home’s efficiency. It could also push smoke into your living space.