Before you light the first fire in your fireplace this fall, it is important to be sure your chimney is clean with no damage that could cause potential problems. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and other fire safety groups all recommend having the chimney professionally swept and inspected before lighting the first fire in the fall. Winston’s Chimney Service understand that fall is a busy season for our customers, and it can be easy to forget to schedule your chimney sweep appointment. If you wait too long to arrange a visit from our CSIA-certified chimney sweeps, you may have to wait even longer because our calendar is packed full from September through December as our sweeps are busy taking care of the chimneys in the Washington, D.C. area. Scheduling your chimney sweep appointment in the summer ensures that your fireplace will be ready to use on the first cool day of fall. We would like to tell you more about what you can expect from our chimney sweeping and inspection services.
Protect your home from soot and dust
The first thing the CSIA-certified sweeps from Winston’s Chimney Service will do when arriving to your home is to lay down tarps in front of the fireplace to protect your floors. We will also set up a high powered vacuum to collect the soot and creosote that will accumulate during the sweeping process.
Sweep your chimney from the bottom to the top.
We start by scrubbing the firebox and the smoke chamber clean with handheld brushes. Then , we will clean, inspect, and adjust the damper and damper assembly. We will then use brushes on rods to sweep the entire length of your chimney. Our sweeps will take great care to be sure to remove creosote that has accumulated on the inner walls of your chimney as the CSIA has warned that creosote is the leading cause of chimney fires. You can count on us to reduce your risk of experiencing a chimney fire.
Inspect the interior and exterior of your chimney
Once we have swept your chimney, we will then take a close look at the condition of your chimney. We will make sure that there is nothing blocking the flue as this could lead to carbon monoxide leaks. We will check out the exterior of your chimney to look at the condition of the bricks, mortar, and chimney crown to be sure there is no damage that could lead to water leaks or other problems. If we find any damage that needs repairing, we will document the problem with video or digital photos that can be emailed to you. We will also provide you with a written evaluation of the condition of your chimney.
Enjoy safe and warm fires this fall after your chimney has been swept and inspected in the summer. Contact us at Winston’s Chimney Service to schedule your chimney sweeping and inspection appointment today.