The Chimney Pro Blog

When Should I Have My Chimney Swept?

For centuries folks have been trying to find ways to take care of creosote buildup in their flue and passing it down through the generations. Old days it was common to throw a live chicken down the flue to remove the soot. Progression took us to burning salt and aluminum cans. Now, not capping the chimney because the birds and rain keep it clean. The scariest, “I set mine on fire intentionally every year and burn it all out”.  Many lives and homes have been lost because we didn’t know what worked. Today, we have codes, standards, and technology that gives professionally trained chimney sweeps the knowledge that wasn’t available to our predecessors.

Always Hire A Certified Sweep

The chimney industry is unregulated in most areas of the country, and this allows anyone with a set of chimney-cleaning brushes to call themselves a chimney sweep. Many homeowners don’t know the condition of their chimney and rely on a chimney sweep to to clean their chimney. Some may prey on customers selling them unnecessary and expensive repairs. Since we have these codes and standards find someone who is in the know. The Chimney Safety Institute of America’s website is www.csia.org, where you can find the nearest certified sweep. CSIA-certified chimney sweeps have pledged in the CSIA Code of Ethics to always render services honestly and fairly and to refrain from engaging in unfair or deceptive practices. A CSIA-certified chimney sweep will give you a comprehensive report that will outline the condition of your chimney.  All of our sweeps at Chimney Pro are CSIA-certified chimney sweeps that you can trust serving Dalton GA, Cartersville GA, and surrounding areas.

What Is The Best Time Of Year To Have My Chimney Swept?

The industry standard pulled directly from The National Fire Protection Association NFPA211 states, “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.” The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends that fireplace flues should be swept at 1/8″ of sooty buildup or if glaze is present it should be done immediately. Typically when you stop burning for the winter season is the best time to have your chimney swept. This will reduce smells in the summer, insure that the winter weather has not damaged your chimney from all the freeze/thaw cycles and that animals don’t have a point of entry. As winter begins to approach we sometimes forget about our fireplace until we think about lighting that first fire. Call and schedule an appointment today with Chimney Pro.

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