- What will you do to clean the chimney?
We will first survey the interior condition of the fireplace (while wearing surgical booties).Drop cloths will be set up from the door to the unit. After a clean work area is set up we will (usually, but not always) power brush the chimney from the top down. Following the cleaning of the flue we will then clean the firebox, damper, glass doors, and smoke chamber from inside the house.
- Is there just soot in the chimney or is there creosote, too?
Creosote is a highly flammable substance and its presence in your chimney can ignite causing a chimney fire. The presence of creosote in the chimney may indicate poor burning practices or a burning appliance that is not working well. In either case you should know of its presence, how the chimney professional will remove it, and what can be done to prevent or limit the presence of creosote in the chimney going forward. Soot on the other hand is a safe substance as long as it is removed before its accumulation interferes with draft. It is, in most cases, easily brushed away.
- Can you inspect/clean other flues in my house besides the fireplace?
Yes, but due to the nature of other types of flues (oil wall furnace, boilers, etc.) please specify when originally booking the appointment.
Multi-system discounts are always offered. - How long will it take?
Between 45 min to 1 1/2 hours - Do you inspect the chimney, too?
Yes, a Level 2 inspection is included in all cleanings - How often should I have my chimney cleaned?
The recommendation is to have the chimney cleaned annually (assuming for normal use) to bi-annually (light, holiday use). Keep in mind that some of our heavy burners (over 2 cords a season) may need to have the chimney cleaned as often as 3 times a year - How much do you charge?
We pride ourselves on being towards the lower end (in terms of cost) in our region; call and ask for details. - What certifications do you have?
CSIA certification and CA License (both B-General and C-29 Masonry). - How long have you been in business? United Chimney has been in operation for 42 years
- Will you have to go on the roof?
Normally speaking we will have to go on the roof; otherwise we cannot promise that the chimney was fully cleaned.