We always ask a homeowner “Is your chimney cap safe” during out first visit. A chimney cap extends flue life and is important in the proper functioning of a fireplace.
A chimney cap should be installed, if not already in place. It will keep animals, rainwater, leaves and debris out of the chimney. When water, leaves, and debris mix with the soot behind the damper, an acidic slurry can form, which can destroy the firebrick mortar joints. The metal cap acts as a spark arrester, helping lit embers or sparks that travel up the chimney from landing on the roof, possibly catching it on fire.
A chimney cap can also help in preventing downdrafts. If the wind is blowing in a certain direction, it can introduce a downdraft, and if you don’t have a chimney cap and you’re using a wood-burning fireplace at the time, a wind-induced downdraft has the potential of blowing smoke back into your home. The flat-shaped top of a chimney cap is designed to help prevent wind-induced downdrafts.
Be aware this can be a dangerous job. Often the fireplace cap is located high above the highest point on your roof. It very well may be 3 stories off of the ground. If you are not comfortable climbing ladders and are afraid of heights, hire a professional to be safe for your family.
Before you start a fire each year, your chimney, flue, grate and cap should be inspected. Request a chimney cleaning as soon as possible in the season. You need to be sure your chimney cap is safe before you start a fire.
Most homeowners do not know that there are various stages of a substance called “creosote” that builds up from burning wood. This substance in large quantities is HIGHLY FLAMMABLE. Here are the various stages of creosote build-up:
The first stage is a feather-light, dull gray, brown or black soot.
The second stage is a black or brown granular accumulation that can be crusty and flaky.
The third stage of creosote is a drippy, sticky, road tar-like coating which is much harder to remove.
Above all (and most deadly) stage is a shiny, hardened, glaze-like coating on the fireplace flue that is virtually impossible to remove. At this stage the creosote is highly flammable and is often the cause of chimney fires.
Therefore, stages of creosote build-up two through four are all highly combustible forms of creosote. If allowed to build up in sufficient quantities with the internal flue temperature high enough.
Creosote removal
is vital to your safety!
To keep chimney build-up at a minimum, sweep up ashes regularly, burn the proper fuel, and be sure your flue air supply isn’t restricted. In other words, hardwood firewood burns cleaner than softwood, and manufactured wood burns much cleaner than hardwood. Call a professional chimney sweep before the start of each season to inspect and repair any issues in your fireplace.
In conclusion, NEVER burn paper products (example cardboard, huge amounts of newspapers or other paper type of products) as these tend to float the ashes upward that can be lodged in the walls of the chimney and create flash fire.
Many people ask us “How much does a Chimney Sweep cost?”
Well, the answer is – it depends. Now before you say that is not much of an answer, let’s go over the different variables associated with cleaning a fireplace.
First, how many stories high is your house? A house with a full basement, a main level and an upstairs can be 3 stories in the back. This is over 40 feet off of the ground. It may require 2 or 3 extended ladders. Each ladder must be secured for safety. This safety requires extra time and the price reflects the safety.
Second, when was the last time your chimney was cleaned? If it has been decades with different wood moisture, the increased buildup can take time to clean out.
Finally, do you have more than one chimney? Many new homes have fireplaces in the bedrooms, den and even in a finished basement. The good news is we offer discounts since the travel is to one location.
So, how much does a chimney sweep cost? With this explanation, you should expect to spend from $250 and up to get a professional cleaning of your chimney. We have a coupon section on our site you are free to explore. We also offer used wood stoves and other logs that may help lower your overall cost. There are many ways to get the same outcome with chimney services. Please, ask us about the options for chimney sweeps, firewood and mantels if you are interested.
In closing, what is the price you will put on the safety of your family? How much does a chimney sweep cost? Priceless, right?
