Spring is a great time to schedule a chimney sweep and inspection!
Winter is releasing its grip and spring is starting to roll into many parts of the US. Many homeowners are relieved to have the harsh winter weather behind them and are looking forward to tackling some spring-cleaning projects that may have accumulated during the snowfall. When you’re making your spring cleaning to-do list, don’t forget about the wood-burning heating appliances you’ve used all winter long.
Chimney sweeping should be an important part of your spring cleaning checklist, because if you use your fireplace or woodstove to heat your home during the winter, it has likely built up some ash, soot and other particles that should be cleaned out. A professional chimney sweeping company like Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps in Upstate South Carolina can assist in an expert chimney sweep.
What Is The Chimney Sweeping Process?
The chimney sweeping process involves a chimney expert coming into your home and cleaning out the ash and shoot from your fireplace. In addition to this, a thorough chimney sweep will also include a full clean-out of the inside of your chimney. A top-to-bottom cleaning will ensure that no dirt, soot and debris are left inside your chimney after a long winter of use.
Winter Chimney Damage
If you’ve used your chimney all winter, you’ve had the damper and/or the chimney cap open, which can allow rain and snow to enter into your chimney and cause potential damage. Having a professional clean out the mess can make sure your chimney is dry so when you cap it during the spring and summer months there is no moisture trapped inside and damaging your chimney.
In addition to moisture, fallen sticks, leaves and other debris can gather in your chimney during winter. Birds and small animals can enter your chimney and build nests and create quite a mess. A thorough chimney sweeping will eliminate all dirt and debris so your chimney is clean and dry and ready to go next winter.
Creosote
Another potential danger to your chimney after a long winter of burning fires is creosote. Creosote is a harmful chemical that can build up along the walls of your chimney after many fires have been burned. A chimney sweeping will remove creosote and all other soot and ash so your chimney is not only clean, but also safe.
What To Look For In A Chimney Sweep
You should never attempt a chimney sweeping on your own, but rather invest in a professional company with the experience and the tools to get the job done thoroughly and safely. The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends every homeowner find a CSIA Certified company that:
- Carries insurance
- Can provide references
- Has years of experience in the field of chimney inspection and maintenance
A reputable company, like Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps, that is CSIA certified will come to your home and thoroughly clean your fireplace and chimney. There is a lot of spring cleaning to tackle in every home – let the professionals help sweep your chimney so you can check it off your to-do list.