3 Signs You Need A Chimney Sweep

Summer is a great time to hire a chimney sweep to come out to your home. The low need of fires at this time of year will make it easier to schedule a chimney cleaning. Here are 3 signs that you need to schedule a chimney sweep before fire burning season returns:

Strong Odors

If you had strong odors coming from your chimney this past winter you probably have an issue with the shaft of your chimney. Fires should produce a pleasant odor from the burning wood rather than from the soot that is stuck within your chimney. An issue with the drafting of your chimney can easily cause smoke to enter your home rather than going up through the chimney. Avoid the need for smoke damage clean up services by noticing bad smells when burning a fire.

Creosote or Soot Build Up

Every homeowner should do their own little inspection of their chimney when not burning a fire. Simply reach up into the chimney and feel the walls for any kind of grease build up. If you find some, this could be an indicator of other creosote or soot that has built up in the chimney. The grease can be extremely dangerous as it can cause a chimney fire that can greatly damage your home.

Hearing Animals Inside

Chimneys are notorious for birds to enjoy as nesting spots and those nests can cause a potentially hazardous problem. Nests can block the exit point of a chimney and cause smoke to back up into your home that would need smoke damage clean up services. Nests can also cause a fire on top of your home. If you hear animals or birds inside your wall near your chimney you know that you need help in clearing it out.

Hiring a chimney sweep to clean your home’s chimney is important for every homeowner that uses their fireplace. Every chimney is different and can get dirtier depending on how often it is used and the kind of wood that is burned. Ask your chimney sweep how often you should have your chimney cleaned in order to prevent the need for smoke damage clean up services. If you have had issues with your chimney, the team at ServiceMaster of Charleston can help!