Why Chimney Inspections and Cleaning Is Not A DIY Job
Are you one of those people who like to do things yourself? You have no doubt heard about various DIY methods of cleaning your chimney like using salt, potato peelings, and aluminum cans. But you should know that cleaning a chimney is not as easy as one may think. It is dangerous and not a project to take on yourself. Here are a few reasons chimney cleaning in Fort Wayne is not a DIY job:
Why Chimney Cleaning Should Be Done by a Professional
Many jobs around the house and yard can be safely done by the homeowner. However, when it comes to chimneys and roofing, this type of task is best left to a professional. They are trained to spot things that you might miss or not realize is important.
They Are Trained, Certified Professionals
Professional chimney sweeps are trained and know what they are doing when it comes to cleaning creosote, a flammable material that builds up inside the chimney as a result of burning wood. A chimney fire can break out suddenly and can destroy not only the chimney but your roof and possibly your entire house. A house fire is devastating and can be easily prevented by taking the proper precautions.
They Know What to Look for
Professional chimney sweeps know what to look for when performing a chimney inspection. They can spot potential hazards and prevent many chimney fires from happening. They will check your flue liner to make sure it is not failing. Creosote buildup, loose bricks, crumbling mortar, and loose roofing tiles are also things they look at that could cause problems in the near future.
They Are Used to Working High Up
They also know how to navigate a roof safely. Most roofs have a very sharp incline and are not easy to walk on. Being 10 feet or more off the ground can cause issues with balance as well. It is dangerous because if you fall, there is nothing to stop you or soften your landing. A fall from a roof can be life-threatening.
Professional Repairs to Prevent Damage
They can repair any damage found during a chimney inspection. Spotting problems are one thing but they can also repair minor issues so they do not progress into bigger issues later on.
They are also used to handling the occasional critter caught in the chimney such as bats, squirrels, and nesting birds. They know how to safely remove an animal without causing injury. Often they will fly out and become disoriented and could hurt themselves trying to find a way out.
What Chimney Sweeps do
A professional chimney sweep will perform a chimney inspection to make sure that everything is intact, in good working order, and if repairs are needed they get done.
Your chimney will be cleaned from top to bottom using the best tools for the job. Chimney sweeps have long-handled brushed that reach high up into the chimney to clear out things like creosote, cobwebs, and bird nests that could cause a fire. They will lay down tarps on the floor and over furniture to keep the mess to a minimum while they clean. They clean inside and outside, from top to bottom. When they are done, you will receive the results of your inspection and your fireplace will then be ready for use. Your chimney should be inspected once or twice per year and especially before the start of the winter heating season. If you need chimney cleaning services in the Fort Wayne area, contact the Dusty Brothers.