When you think of a chimney sweep, you probably get a vision of someone that sweeps out your chimney. However, they provide many more services. A professional chimney sweep will clean your fireplace to help prevent a fire, but they also check for problems and repair them.

What Does a Chimney Sweep Do?

Most people do not consider the real function of a chimney. They know it carries the smoke from the fire out of the home, but it is also responsible for removing dangerous gases. A chimney sweep will clean soot and creosote from the inside of the chimney. Regular inspection and cleaning is essential to prevent a number of problems. Services such as 301 Chimney can provide a chimney inspection virginia.

When you hire a chimney sweep they can also check other parts of your chimney such as the flue. This part of the chimney is what moves exhaust out of the fireplace and outside. Sometimes, they become blocked. It is also possible for the flue to need to be replaced due to damage. Cleaning it is also important because creosote can build up in the flue and cause a fire.

Is Your Firebox or Damper in Disrepair?

The firebox is the bottom part of your fireplace where you build a fire. It is made of bricks held together by mortar. If your home is older, you may have noticed the mortar is beginning to crack. This can happen with use and time. A chimney sweep can repair the mortar to aid in keeping the bricks where they belong.

The damper is used to open and close the flue in a fireplace. When the fireplace is not being used, it is generally closed. If you are using other types of heat and only use the fireplace occasionally, keeping the flue closed helps maintain heat in the home. During the summer, it can keep the cool air from your AC system inside. When the damper is not closing properly, this can increase heating and air conditioning expenses.

When the winter weather comes and you are ready to use your fireplace, the last thing you want to worry about whether it is safe to use. A chimney sweep can inspect, clean, and repair your chimney so all you have to do is to relax and enjoy.