Do chimney sweeps still use brushes?
The standard chimney brush is still used, along with more modern tools (such as vacuums, cameras and special chimney cleaning tools).
What is a chimney sweep brush called?
of, metal bristles or a plastic material known in the sweeping world as polypropylene. If you have a traditional masonry chimney that has a clay flue tile liner, the metal bristle brush is the ideal type to clean. These are known as flat wire brushes.
How much does a chimney brush cost?
According to more than 16,000 nationwide homeowners, the average chimney sweep cost is $252. The typical chimney cleaning cost is between $129 and $377. Wood fireplaces that receive regular maintenance price $85 to $100 per cleaning.
What size brush Do I need to clean my chimney?
Measure the inside of your chimney and match that size to a brush designed for your flue. The brush should be 1/2″ – 1 inch larger than the flue. An oversize brush will not improve cleaning and could become lodged in the chimney. An undersized brush will not provide the pressure on the walls for proper cleaning.
What do chimney Sweepers do?
The main role of a chimney sweep is to help prevent chimney fires, and reduce the emission of fumes from blocked chimneys. They clean chimneys, smoke ducts, flue and more. You need regular cleaning and maintenance of your chimney to check you are using it correctly and prevent soot fires.
How often should your chimney be cleaned?
Homeowners are urged to have their chimneys inspected for creosote buildup and cleaned if necessary in the spring of each year. Chimney fires are characterized by loud cracking or popping noises and a lot of dense smoke from the flue, but often times go undetected by the homeowner.
Which chimney brush should I use?
Wire bristle chimney brushes are most commonly used and generally do a great job. Homeowner versions and Master Sweep versions are available. The Master Sweep version has more bristles and will generally make the job easier and faster. Wire bristle brushes are not recommended for metal chimney flues.
What supplies do you need to clean a chimney?
To clean your chimney, you will need: Chimney brush. Either chimney brush rods or rope and pull rings (depending on the method) Fireplace cover. Tarp, drop cloth or other similar coverings for the floor and furniture. Tape. Mirror. Metal bucket.
How do you clean a fireplace chimney?
There are two main ways to clean a chimney: from the top down, and from the bottom up. Both methods involve getting an appropriately-sized chimney brush and sending it up and down the chimney. With the top down method, the the fireplace is covered over (or the wood heater is closed, if that’s what you have).
Why is a chimney sweep necessary?
The most important reason why you need to have an annual chimney cleaning is to confirm that you are burning in the correct way as to not put your home at risk of a fire. The more soot you find in the fireplace, the more gases are released and the less environmentally conscious the burning is. How does a chimney sweep clean a chimney?
How big is a chimney brush?
Standard chimney brushes are available in sizes from 5 to 12 inches, but some manufacturers offer custom-made brushes, too. Before you purchase a brush, make sure its shape resembles that of the flue and that the brush is not more than 0.5 inch wider than the flue diameter.