5 Questions to Ask About Cleaning and Inspecting a Wood Fireplace Chimney

The warmth of a wood fireplace adds value to your home, but if not cared for properly, it can become a serious safety hazard. Regular inspections and cleaning ensure your fireplace lasts as long as possible and remains safe to use. The answers to the chimney repair questions below can help you find the right pro to inspect and clean your wood fireplace chimney to keep things running smoothly year-round.

1. When do you need this work done? 

You may need to have your wood fireplace cleaned and inspected as part of yearly maintenance, or maybe you’re dealing with an issue that calls for immediate care. Either way, establish your timeline when looking for a chimney sweep near you. This will ensure that you are both on the same page and the work can be completed on schedule. Having a firm timeline can help you weed out specific pros who may not be able to fit you in.

2. What type of fireplace do you use? 

Different types of fireplaces have unique design features, combustion methods, and venting systems that inspectors and cleaners will have to consider. For example, traditional wood-burning fireplaces require more frequent chimney cleaning due to higher creosote buildup, while wood stoves and inserts have sealed systems that may need less chimney maintenance but require regular combustion chamber checks for airflow inspections.

3. Where is your fireplace located?

A barely used outdoor wood fireplace in Arizona and a frequently used indoor fireplace in Maine may require completely different tools for inspection and cleaning, as factors like climate, usage, and fuel type can all impact the potential for damage, calling for tailored maintenance approaches. The more specific you can be about your climate, the location of your fireplace, and how often you use it will help a chimney pro know what to expect.

4. How many chimney flues need cleaning?

One chimney flue may require multiple chimney sweeps and a couple of hours to inspect and clean, while two or three flues will increase the needed time and labor. Know whether you want one chimney flue inspected and cleaned or multiple so that your pro will know how much time and labor they need to provide. 

5. What services do you need for your chimney? 

Most fireplace cleaning companies provide a standard list of services with an inspection and cleaning, such as sweeping the flue, vacuuming debris, removing obstructions, and checking for cracks or loose bricks in the interior. However, you may have to pay for extra services. Discuss the cost of chimney sealing or other extras with your pro before signing on the dotted line.