The time has come to fire up some logs in the chimney. While snuggling up with your loved ones by the warmth, the last thing on your mind is a fire hazard. It’s important to clean your chimney before considering burning some wood, but most think they can clean their own chimney. With all of the issues behind cleaning your own chimney, here are 9 reasons why it’s best to call someone in.
1. A Professional Inspects More Than You Think
When it comes to fire safety, a professional knows what else to take into consideration. This includes checking the liners, smoke chamber, fire chamber and any additional structural issues.
2. A Professional is Cheaper than a Fire
Bringing someone in to clean a chimney will cost less than you think — around 1291.60 - 3229 R. Costs vary, but dealing with this one cost each year is more salvageable than dealing with home insurance.
3. Prevent Build-Up of Creosote
This is a carbonaceous chemical formed by the distillation of tar and heating the wood of the logs. Creosote build-up is common, but dangerous: this is what causes fires within your chimneys. A professional can detect its grade and has the proper tools to remove creosote.
4. They Can Show You How to Use the Chimney
A chimney isn’t as easy as putting wood in and starting a fire. An example is working the damper so leftover smoke doesn’t enter your home.
5. Professional Tools are Safer than Store-Bought Cleaners
Products containing chemicals can especially be hazardous. Professionals usually use mechanical tools that are safer and just as effective. If they recommend another method that involved a chemical cleaner, it’s usually for good reason.
6. They Will Clean Your Chimney Promptly…And Won’t Procrastinate
Chimney cleaning is one of those “spring cleaning” jokes that no one wants to do; just about anyone will put off chimney cleaning until the next year. When you call a professional in, you know your chimney will be cleaned to standard qualities of safety.
7. Unwelcome Visitors May Make Your Chimney Their Home
Oh yes, critters and bugs love the dark and isolated environment of your chimney. A professional can kick them out. In addition to bugs and rodents, twigs and branches may end up in your chimney.
8. They Can Detect Hidden Damage
A professional has the technology to detect excess build-up or other unsafe materials. Professionals use video inspection to see the areas that don’t meet the human eye. This is not something you can see with a simple tool such as a flashlight.
9. They Are the Professionals for a Reason
Did you know you need a rain cap for your chimney? Little bits of information can improve your chimney — and professionals know all of the tricks. This will make your chimney enjoyable for many years to come.
If you want to enjoy your chimney for the cooler months but you can’t imagine a fire in your home, calling a professional is worth it. Always make sure your chimney cleaner has good references and they’re associated with a reputable company.