FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions.

Why do I need my chimney swept?

A chimney needs to allow for the free passage of dangerous gasses. Regular cleaning will remove soot and other deposits such as tar/creosote, helping prevent dangerous chimney fires. Cleaning will increase the efficiency of some appliances. Bird nests, cobwebs and other blockages will also be removed. Please note, that most insurance companies will now request a copy of a professional sweeping certificate in the event of a claim. In most cases the certificate must be no more than 12 months old prior to the claim. More about chimney and fire safety.

How often does my chimney need sweeping?

In most cases a working chimney should be swept annually as a minimum. The frequency will depend on a number of factors such as, fuel used, appliance type, duration of use, moisture content of wood/fuel, type of chimney and your home insurance requirements. The sweeping frequencies below are for guidance.

Wood burning appliances –  Once per season when in use

Smokeless fuel/coal – At least once a year

House / biturious coal – At least twice a year

Oil – Once a year

How do you clean the chimney?

I can sweep using both traditional and state of the art power sweeping technology. ‘Power sweeping’ is most effective and less likely to cause damage to your chimney or appliance. I also use an industrial hazardous waste vacuum with Hepa filtration, this is used to remove dust and debris from the fire place, protect your home and me during the sweeping process. Your fire place and stove will be sealed off before any sweeping takes place to ensure no dust enters the room and I protect the area with specialist dust sheets. Find out more about the services we offer.

Does sweeping make a mess?

Generally no. I take great care to ensure the area around your appliance is fully protected from my equipment and in most cases leave your fire place cleaner than when I arrived. On the rare occasion of a particularly large nest removal or if your chimney has not been swept for some time I will make every effort keep the area contained during the sweep however you may wish to cover furnishing. As you can imagine removing a nest after several years is not an easy process to keep everything as clean as usual. Bird nest matter will have decomposed in some cases to a fine dry soil consistency so I would advise additional covers are in place.  It is also important to note following a sweep you may experience some soot and/or dust fall in the fire place, this is completely normal and should settle within a few days.

Do I need to do anything before you arrive?

In most cases very little. Clear the immediate area from around the appliance and mantle piece of ornaments and vases etc. The fire appliance needs to be cold and have no hot embers in. It is advisable to ensure the fire is out before 9pm the day prior to the sweep. 

Do you issue a certificate?

Yes, I issue a chimney sweeping certificate for every sweep on request, normally via email.

How long will it take?

It usually takes around one hour on average to complete a sweep, however will depend on the nature of the work carried out.