Post by : Ed
26-Aug-2019
If you’ve recently bought a house with a chimney, or if you’re unhappy with your current cleaning schedule, you may be wondering, “When should I get a chimney sweep?” This is really two questions disguised as one:
How often do I need to get my chimney swept?
and
What’s the best time of year to get a chimney sweep?
We’ll address each of these questions in turn.
How often you need to get your chimney swept will vary based on how often you use your chimney! Generally speaking, when you see glaze, it’s time to call a chimney sweep. Keep in mind that factory-build fireplaces need to be cleaned more often than open masonry fireplaces.
At the very least, you should get your chimney swept once a year. Even if you haven’t used it throughout the year, that’s enough time for animals to make their home in your chimney. It’s dangerous to use a chimney in these situations, so you need a professional to come in and ensure your chimney is safe for future use.
You want to get your chimney swept before the burning season begins. This recommendation is really saying it’s best to get your chimney swept anytime that isn’t winter or late fall. This way, you know you’re able to use your chimney during the coldest days of the year.
The two most popular times of year are early summer and early fall. Some people prefer getting their chimney swept in early summer because the smell of creosote is pungent at this time of year.
We recommend getting your chimney swept during the early fall. This way, you can be confident it’s clean and pest-free the first time you light it during burning season.
If you use your chimney frequently, you’ll need to get your chimney swept multiple times a year. In this situation, there’s no ideal time. You should simply call a professional as needed.
At Creative Masonry & Chimney, we’re dedicated to keeping your chimney safe and clean. We handle all aspects of chimney maintenance and repair, so whether you need a simple cleaning or you need to rebuild the entire chimney, we’re here for you. We even offer inspections! Call us today at (860) 406-5745.
