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Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I sweep my chimney?

At a minimum, you should clean your chimney every year before the start of winter burning season. In addition, we suggest calling us for additional cleanings when more than 1/8” to 1/4” of creosote builds up inside your flue.


How can I stop my fireplace from smoking into the house?

Dozens of factors affect your chimney's ability to draw out smoke. In our experience, the most common problems are:

  • fireplace openings that are to big for the flue, causing smoke to backup like the freeway at rush hour;
  • poor room ventilation, so there isn't enough air to replace what's being sucked out the chimney;
  • downdrafts in chimneys that are too short or constructed in a bad spot; and
  • obstructions inside the flue.

My heating system is producing soot. Is this a problem?

The system should be TURNED OFF until a CSIA certified sweep inspects the chimney system. It could be a health and safety problem.