BLOGS

Roof work to clean the chimney.

Winter is fast approaching. Holiday sales, snow and family gatherings are on the minds of many. But one thing that’s often overlooked when preparing one’s home and family for winter months is making sure the chimney is ready to handle increased activity. We love for the family to gather around a warm fireplace, but it’s critical to perform regular chimney maintenance to prevent dangerous situations like chimney fires and ensure your fireplace operates efficiently. Is your chimney blowing smoke or choked up? We want your family and Green Haven home to be safe, so here’s some tips you need to know about how to clean your chimney.

Signs It's Time for a Chimney Cleaning

Each time you use your fireplace, creosote—a byproduct of combustion—builds up inside your chimney. It’s not easy to see, but there are some ways to tell it’s impeding the functionality of your chimney:

• Visible Buildup: If you can see a thick, tar-like substance inside your chimney, it's time for a cleaning.
• Foul Odors: Bad smells from your fireplace often indicate soot and creosote buildup.
• Poor Burning Efficiency: If you have trouble starting fires or notice poor airflow, there may be creosote buildup.
• Smoke in Your Home: If smoke enters your room instead of venting out through the chimney, it may be partly blocked.

DIY vs. Professional Chimney Cleaning

Generally, chimneys should be inspected yearly and cleaned as needed. If you use your fireplace heavily during winter, consider bi-annual inspections. But should you do it yourself or call in the pros? Some homeowners may feel comfortable doing basic chimney cleaning themselves, but professional services are recommended for a thorough job. The pros have the tools and expertise to safely remove all creosote, including hard-to-reach areas. They can also inspect for damage that may go unnoticed by the untrained eye. If you find a reputable sweep they should be certified by organizations like the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA).

What to Expect From the Chimney Sweep

Before the pros arrive you can do your part to prepare like moving furniture out of the way. Professional chimney cleaning generally involves the following steps:

1. Inspection: The sweep will assess the buildup and check for any structural issues.
2. Covering Work Areas: They’ll cover surrounding areas to prevent soot and debris from spreading.
3. Sweeping: Using specialized brushes, the sweep will clean out creosote and other blockages.
4. Vacuuming: A vacuum is used to remove loosened debris from the chimney and fireplace.
5. Final Inspection: After cleaning, the sweep performs a final check to ensure everything is clean and safe.

After your chimney is clean, your sweep may offer tips on how to maintain it until the next inspection. This might include advice on wood selection and best practices for efficient fireplace use. Whether you choose a pro or prefer to do the maintenance work yourself don’t forget, chimney cleaning is an essential part of home maintenance that should not be ignored. Regular inspections and cleanings help prevent chimney fires and ensure your fireplace runs smoothly. Enjoy the upcoming winter without any unexpected problems by making your chimney is ready and your fireplace is running safely and efficiently.