Chimney Sweeper Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

• Introduction

  Hiring a chimney sweep can help keep your home safe from chimney fires and help you remain in compliance with your homeowner’s insurance requirements. A chimney sweep does this by removing creosote buildup, which can catch fire.
  

  
  

  Some homeowners can perform chimney sweeping tasks as DIY projects. However, some homeowners insurance policies may require a professional inspection afterward to keep coverage in effect.
  

  
  

  Chimney sweeps can often assess the condition of your chimney. Additionally, they may offer chimney maintenance and repair services, such as repairing flues or masonry work to fortify a weak chimney.

• How much does a chimney sweep cost?

  It costs between $150 and $250 to hire a chimney sweep. This is just for basic sweeping services and doesn't include inspection and repair costs if anything is wrong. Factors that can affect the cost include the area where you live, the height of the chimney, and steepness of your home's roof.

• How is a chimney swept?

  A chimney is swept by pushing a brush mounted on a flexible rod up through the flue to break creosote buildup loose from the interior walls. The brush and rod combo is then pushed down through the top of the chimney to clean the upper portion of the flue.

• How often do chimneys need sweeping?

  Chimneys usually need to be swept once a year. If the chimney is heavily used, it may need to be done more often. If it’s rarely used, it may not need annual cleanings. Your homeowner's insurance may dictate how often you need to have your chimney swept to maintain coverage.

• Do chimney sweep logs work?

  Chimney sweep logs work, but they aren’t a substitute for a full cleaning. These logs are ideal for basic chimney maintenance between professional cleanings. Burning the log dries out accumulated creosote so it flakes away more easily. This makes it easier for a chimney sweep to perform the full cleaning.

• What does a chimney sweep do?

  A chimney sweep examines the outside and inside of a chimney to determine its condition. They then advise the homeowner on needed repairs and estimates cleaning and repair costs. Chimney sweeps then cleans the chimney and either perform repairs or recommends a mason to handle the task.

• How long does a chimney sweep take?

  A chimney sweep usually takes about an hour to perform a complete chimney cleaning. If a home has multiple fireplaces or a very tall chimney, it may take longer. It can also take longer than an hour to remove extreme creosote buildup  from a chimney. Additionally, the job will likely take longer if repair work is needed.