Why Hire a Qualified Chimney Sweep

Chimney sweeps are technicians who clean and service chimneys. If you use a wood-burning fireplace, your chimney sweep can be an invaluable asset in a number of ways. Doodlebuggers Fireplace, Grill & Outdoor Store of Pensacola and Destin, Florida, would like to share five reasons why it’s to your advantage to hire a qualified chimney sweep.

    1. Prevent chimney fires

Probably the most important job performed by a trained chimney sweep is the removal of flammable creosote from the chimney flue. Creosote, a byproduct of smoke condensation, builds up every time a wood fire is burned. Most chimney fires in the U.S. each year are started by creosote – this includes the big, blazing fires as well as the many smaller fires that happen without the homeowners’ knowledge.

    2. Allow for the smooth drafting of smoke

Removing excess creosote and soot, which narrows the flue passage, will help your fireplace to draft safely and efficiently. An obstructed flue can send smoke and deadly carbon monoxide into your home. Chimney sweeps have the equipment and training to keep your flue open and clear.

    3. Reduce unpleasant odors coming from the chimney

Over time, creosote and soot in a dirty chimney will begin to smell and can fill your home with very unpleasant odors. If you have a chimney leak, this will make the problem worse. Most chimney sweeps are skilled repair technicians who can solve any leaky chimney issue.

    4. Remove debris and animals from the flue and keep them out

If your chimney doesn’t have a proper chimney cap, tree debris and small animals can get inside. Birds, squirrels, rodents, raccoons and other critters like to build nests in chimneys, which impairs the smooth drafting of smoke and toxins. Your chimney sweep can install a new chimney cap and put an end to these unwanted intrusions.

    5. Prolong the life of your chimney

A clean chimney is a safe chimney that will serve you well for many years. As mentioned above, some chimney fires go unnoticed, but all of these fires do damage and decrease the lifespan of a chimney. In addition to being flammable, creosote is highly acidic. If left alone, it can eventually damage the chimney liner and interior masonry.

Get useful advice and tips from a professional chimney sweep

Experienced chimney sweeps can do all the above, while being a source of helpful advice and tips on using and caring for your chimney. Few people know the workings of a chimney as well as a qualified chimney sweep.

When looking to hire a chimney technician to take care of your chimney, here’s a quick guide:

• Check references
• Ask around and see what others are saying
• Make sure the sweep or company is experienced in the work you need done
• Confirm that the candidate has proper insurance and is licensed to do business in your area
• Talk to the person and get a feel for how he or she does business

Help for all your chimney needs

Doodlebuggers provides chimney sweeping, chimney inspections and all types of chimney repairs. Give us a call and let us earn your trust as a chimney services company you can rely on.

Reach a chimney expert today at 850-477-1151 in Pensacola, FL, or at 850-243-0154 in the Destin, FL, area. You can also get in touch with our handy contact form.