skip to main content
OUTDOOR PREVIEW
0
Your shopping cart is empty.
Sign In
Join as a Pro
History of Houzz
GET IDEAS
PHOTOS
Kitchen & DiningKitchenDining RoomPantryGreat RoomBreakfast Nook
Bed & BathBathroomPowder RoomBedroomStorage & ClosetBaby & Kids
LivingLiving RoomFamily RoomSunroom
OutdoorLandscapePatioDeckPoolBackyardPorchExteriorOutdoor KitchenFront YardDrivewayPoolhouse
WalkwaysStaircaseEntryHall
Bar & WineHome BarWine Cellar
UtilityLaundryGarageMudroom
More RoomsGame RoomHome OfficeBasementCraftLibraryGym
Popular Design IdeasKitchen BacksplashFirepit
FireplaceDeck RailingPergolaPrivacy FenceSmall Closet
MAGAZINE
Stories and GuidesPopular StoriesRenovation Cost Guides
DISCUSSIONS
Get AdviceDesign DilemmasBefore & After
HOUZZ TV
HOUZZ RESEARCH
FIND PROFESSIONALS
PROFESSIONALS
DesignArchitects & Building DesignersKitchen & Bathroom DesignersInterior Designers & DecoratorsDesign-Build FirmsLighting Designers & Suppliers
RemodelingKitchen & Bathroom RemodelersGeneral ContractorsHome BuildersTile & Countertop ContractorsMasonry & Concrete ContractorsExterior & Siding ContractorsStair & Railing ContractorsFireplace Contractors
RenovationCarpentersCabinetry & Cabinet MakersFlooring ContractorsWindow ContractorsDoor ContractorsGlass & Shower Door ContractorsCarpet Contractors
OutdoorLandscape Architects & DesignersLandscape ContractorsDeck & Patio BuildersFence ContractorsDriveway & Paving ContractorsSwimming Pool BuildersHot Tub & Spa Dealers
ServicesPaintersRoofing & Gutter ContractorsOrganizers & Closet DesignersHome StagersGarage Door ServicesWindow Treatment ServicesPaint & Wall Covering Dealers
Appliances & SystemsAppliance Sales & ServicesHVAC ContractorsHome Theater & AutomationOutdoor Lighting & AV SpecialistsSolar Energy Contractors
All ProfessionalsAll ServicesFor Professionals
SHOP BY DEPARTMENT
KITCHEN & DINING
Kitchen & Dining FurnitureSinks & FaucetsKitchen AppliancesTabletopCabinets & StorageKnobs & PullsKitchen LightingTileCookware & BakewareTools & GadgetsView All
FURNITURE
Living RoomKitchen & DiningHome OfficeOutdoorBedroomStorageBathroomView All
BATH
Bathroom VanitiesShowersBathtubsBathroom LightingFaucetsBathroom SinksTileBath AccessoriesBath LinensMedicine CabinetsView All
DECOR
RugsMirrorsWall DecorDecorative AccentsArtworkPillows & ThrowsHoliday DecorView All
BEDROOM
Beds & HeadboardsBeddingDressersNightstandsBenchesBedroom DecorLampsCloset StorageFutonsChaisesView All
HOME IMPROVEMENT
HardwareTileBathroom FixturesKitchen FixturesHeating & CoolingBuilding MaterialsTools & EquipmentView All
LIVING
Coffee & Accent TablesRugsSofas & SectionalsArmchairs & Accent ChairsTV Stand & Media StorageHome DecorLampsArtworkBookcasesFireplaces & AccessoriesView All
OUTDOOR
Patio FurnitureOutdoor DecorOutdoor LightingPool & SpaLawn & GardenOutdoor StructuresOutdoor CookingView All
LIGHTING
ChandeliersPendant LightsFlush-MountsBathroom & VanityWall SconcesCeiling FansTable LampsFloor LampsKitchen & CabinetOutdoor LightingView All
MORE
Storage & OrganizationHome OfficeBaby & KidsHome BarCleaning & LaundryPet SuppliesHoliday DecorView All
Looking for the perfect gift? Send a Houzz Gift Card!
SALE
ON SALE - UP TO 75% OFF
Bathroom VanitiesChandeliersBar StoolsPendant LightsRugsLiving Room ChairsDining Room FurnitureWall LightingCoffee TablesSide & End TablesHome Office FurnitureSofasBedroom FurnitureLampsMirrors
OUTDOOR PREVIEW
Up to 45% Off
Outdoor Lounge Furniture 
Free Shipping
Bestselling Outdoor Furniture 
Up to 55% Off
Outdoor Rugs and Doormats 
Up to 65% Off
Outdoor Dining Furniture 
Housekeeping
Housekeeping
7 Chores You May Be Doing Wrong
Top Ideabooks
7 Chores You May Be Doing WrongThe Quick and Easy Way to Clean a MicrowaveTo-Dos: Your February Home ChecklistOut, Darn Spot! Tips for Removing Carpet Stains
Appears in
Life
See also
DeclutteringCleaning
Fireplaces
Fireplaces
12 Hot Ideas for Fireplace Facing
Top Ideabooks
12 Hot Ideas for Fireplace Facing7 Ways to Rock a TV and Fireplace ComboHouzz TV: Flickering Virtual Fireplaces to Warm Your HeartBefore and After: 6 Dramatic Fireplace Makeovers
Appears in
Design Details
Cleaning
Cleaning
7 Chores You May Be Doing Wrong
Top Ideabooks
7 Chores You May Be Doing WrongThe Quick and Easy Way to Clean a MicrowaveOut, Darn Spot! Tips for Removing Carpet StainsTake a Vacuuming Master Class for a Spotless Home
Appears in
Housekeeping
See also
7-Day Cleaning Plans

Before You Roast Those Chestnuts, Make Sure You've Got a Clean Chimney

Here's how to ensure your chimney is safe for holiday gatherings by the fire

Bonnie McCarthy
Bonnie McCarthyOctober 24, 2015
Houzz Contributor. Style anthropologist, freelance writer and photographer with a passion for design and living with style. Join me on the adventure at ThisAmericanHome.blogspot.com, and follow me on Houzz! www.thisamericanhome.blogspot.com
More
Print
Embed
Facebook
Twitter
Email
Santa isn’t the only one who believes in the importance of a clean chimney. A lack of fireplace maintenance is responsible for more than 27,000 chimney fires each year, according to the Chimney Safety Institute of America, or CSIA. Says Lorraine Carli, vice president of outreach and advocacy for the National Fire Protection Association, or NFPA: “The leading factor contributing to home heating fires was failure to clean — principally, the creosote — from chimneys.” Carli says a good rule of thumb is to inspect and clean your chimney once a year. “A good time is right before the cold weather sets in.” In other words, it’s time to get on it.
Michelle Fries
1. Why do chimneys need to be cleaned? Smoke from burning wood goes up your chimney, leaving behind a substance called creosote, which is highly flammable. “With a buildup of soot and creosote, the whole chimney can go up like a Roman candle,” says Steve Lovsteen, founder and principal of Oliver Twist Chimney Sweep & Air Duct Cleaning in Southern California.

His job, and the job of other chimney sweeps, is to prevent fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. Cracks, voids and breaches on the inside of a chimney or chimney liner can lead to house fires or carbon monoxide leaks. Lovsteen, a state-certified fire inspector, says the danger is that heat in the smoke chamber will pass through the cracks and ignite the home’s wood-frame structure.
Rikki Snyder
Even gas-burning chimneys need regular maintenance. “People say, ‘Well, I’m just burning gas, I’m not too concerned,’ ” Lovsteen says. “But you have to be careful with gas too, because you don’t want the transfer of heat and gases, like carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, inside the spaces between the walls or going into the house.”

And even though wood is not burning in a gas fireplace, a residue of fine carbon soot still gets left inside the chimney. How much soot depends on several factors: the placement of the logs, whether the logs are cracked or in good shape, the gas-to-air ratio of the flammable mixture and the efficiency of the gas burner openings.

Lovsteen describes the resulting soot as “lighter and fluffier” than creosote but still a potential danger. “It’s also messier,” he adds. Soot from a gas fireplace can clump together, creating balls that fall onto the hearth and fireplace surround. A gas fireplace can also put unwanted particulates in the air and increase the risk of trapped carbon monoxide inside the home.
Jessica Helgerson Interior Design
2. How to know if your chimney needs inspection and cleaning. The NFPA recommends an annual inspection of all chimneys, flues and vents, but Lovsteen says it’s especially important to get an inspection after an earthquake or chimney fire, as well as when you’re buying a new home with a fireplace and chimney.

If you’re unsure whether your chimney needs cleaning, Lovsteen recommends getting on your hands and knees with a flashlight and fireplace poker, then poking right above the damper on the walls of the smoke chamber. “If you see a quarter-inch of that black fuzzy powder, that’s creosote, and it’s flammable,” he says. “When you see a quarter-inch or more, it’s time to have it cleaned. Less than a quarter of an inch is usually not a problem.”

As for when to clean a gas fireplace, it depends on how often you use it. Again, the NFPA recommends an annual inspection, and if there’s a quarter-inch or more of soot, it’s time for a cleaning.

Lovsteen says cleaning a gas-burning fireplace should also include the gas lines, which can become clogged with dust, lint and even spider webs. His team uses commercial vacuums with HEPA filters and small brushes.
Andrew Howard Interior Design
3. Cleanings help keep your fireplace working properly. In addition to safety concerns, chimney maintenance also ensures the fireplace will continue to function properly. The accumulation of soot can hamper a chimney’s performance. As little as a half-inch of soot buildup will restrict the air flow by 17 percent for typical masonry chimneys and 30 percent for the average prefabricated chimney, according to the CSIA.
Michelle Fries
4. Finding the right professional. Before you hire a chimney sweep, it’s important to know what to ask. Sites like the National Chimney Sweep Guild, the Chimney Safety Institute of America and Fireplace Investigation Research and Education are good resources that offer tips and advice on hiring the right professional.

The CSIA recommends you ask the following questions:
  1. How long has the chimney sweeping company been in business?
  2. Does the company offer current references?
  3. Does the company have unresolved complaints filed with the city or state consumer protection agency or Better Business Bureau?
  4. Does the company or individual carry a valid business liability insurance policy to protect your home and furnishings against accidents?
  5. Does the company ensure that a CSIA-certified chimney sweep will be on the job site?
Kristie Barnett, The Decorologist
5. Can you DIY? While cleaning your chimney could be a DIY project for someone capable of and knowledgeable about home repair, it’s not recommended. It’s a dirty, difficult and potentially dangerous job. Think ladders, rooftops and even animals. The CSIA notes that birds and small animals think your chimney looks like a hollow tree in which to set up housekeeping. Sweeps often find chimneys literally packed full of leaves, twigs and baby animals. “We’ve found everything from raccoons, possums, kittens and birds of all kinds, even a peacock once,” Lovsteen says.

Beyond dealing with critters, Lovsteen says the most important thing for DIYers is to make sure to clean off any creosote and debris that may have collected on top of the smoke shelf. “You can’t just brush the chimney,” he says. “You have to reach up and vacuum the smoke shelf, otherwise one errant spark lands on top of the smoke shelf and the whole thing can go up. It’s really important.”
Austin Patterson Disston Architects
6. Preparing for inspection and cleaning. There’s not much homeowners need to do before a chimney inspection, Lovsteen says. He suggests removing any breakables from the mantle, just in case, and possibly moving furniture slightly away from the hearth. “A good chimney sweep will cover the front of the actual hearth with a nice clean cotton tarp or dropcloth,” he says. Some technicians also wear protective booties over their shoes.
Touch Interiors by Bronwyn Poole
7. The three levels of inspection. The type of inspection performed during the service will depend on the customer’s needs, and is ranked according to service level. “An inspection will tell you if you have a buildup of creosote, the oily substance that accumulates on the chimney when things are burned,” the NFPA’s Lorraine Carli says. “If you do, then the chimney needs to be cleaned to avoid the risk of fire. An inspection will also reveal if there are any structural damages to your chimney.”

A Level 1 inspection is a basic visual inspection for fireplaces and chimneys that are used often and not experiencing any problems. For this inspection, the technician requires minimal equipment: flashlight, screwdriver, possibly pliers. The technician will check the basic condition of the chimney structure, flue, fundamental clearances and possible blockages.

A Level 2 inspection is recommended when homeowners are switching their fuel type from wood to gas or vice-versa, when changes are being made to the shape or material of the flue, or when a property with a fireplace and chimney is being purchased.

This type of inspection is more in-depth. Although no demolition tools are necessary, technicians will conduct video scanning with an internal camera to examine interior surfaces and joints.

A Level 3 inspection is used in cases where serious hazards are suspected. It may also require special tools to access concealed portions of the chimney structure and flue, and parts of the chimney, such as the crown or interior wall, may have to be removed.
Don Ziebell
8. How long does a cleaning take? “It depends on how dirty the chimney is and how big it is,” Lovsteen says. Generally, it takes a two-man crew about an hour to clean a chimney. If it’s really dirty, it might take two hours.

In a worst-case scenario, it may take more than one visit. “We’ve had some chimneys that have burned for 30, 40, 50 years and never had a cleaning,” Lovsteen says. This negligence often results in a coating inside the chimney almost like a glaze. “You can’t brush it out, I don’t care how strong you are,” Lovsteen says. In this case, a chimney technicians will use an acid-wash, anti-creosote spray inside the smoke chamber. They’ll allow the spray to dry and return a few days later to use special tools to dislodge the creosote.
ROMABIO / Interior & Exterior Mineral Based Paints
9. Don’t forget the rain cap. A code-compliant rain cap is highly recommended to help keep out rain, birds, leaves and wind. “As cold weather nears, it’s important to make sure our homes are ready for the winter months,” Carli says. “We see a number of fires in chimneys each year, and most can be prevented by making sure your chimney is clean and in good working order.”

Find a local chimney sweep

See how to clean: Hardwood Floors | Marble Countertops and Tile | Glass Showers | Refrigerators | Carpet | Stainless Steel | Windows | Garden Tools | Dishwashers | Silver
Print
Embed
Facebook
Twitter
Email
See 5 comments
Explore Related Topics
HousekeepingFireplacesCleaning
Read Related Stories
You Showed Us: 20 Nutty Home FixesYou Showed Us: 20 Nutty Home Fixes
By Becky Harris·178
Life
How to Get Rid of Household MoldHow to Get Rid of Household Mold
By Julie Sheer·90
Most Popular
The Quick and Easy Way to Clean a MicrowaveThe Quick and Easy Way to Clean a Microwave
By Marianne Lipanovich·144
Kitchen Appliances
How to Clean Your Washing MachineHow to Clean Your Washing Machine
By Marianne Lipanovich·377
Most Popular
A Clean Home for the Holidays in 5 DaysA Clean Home for the Holidays in 5 Days
By Brenna Malmberg·74
Cleaning
25 Gorgeous Holiday Mantels by Houzzers25 Gorgeous Holiday Mantels by Houzzers
By Houzz·311
Holidays
How to Clean Your Range and OvenHow to Clean Your Range and Oven
By Bonnie McCarthy·196
Kitchen Appliances
A Fine Mess: How to Have a Clean-Enough Home Over Summer BreakA Fine Mess: How to Have a Clean-Enough Home Over Summer Break
By Alison Hodgson·153
Most Popular
How to Avoid Dryer Fires During the HolidaysHow to Avoid Dryer Fires During the Holidays
By Terry Reuer·9
Laundry Rooms
7 Ways to Rock a TV and Fireplace Combo7 Ways to Rock a TV and Fireplace Combo
By Shane Inman·122
Most Popular
Your Guide to a Sparkling Clean KitchenYour Guide to a Sparkling Clean Kitchen
By Mitchell Parker·172
Most Popular
Shine On: How to Clean CopperShine On: How to Clean Copper
By Bonnie McCarthy·40
Kitchen Design
Fireplace Makeover Ideas for a Cozier WinterFireplace Makeover Ideas for a Cozier Winter
By Laura Gaskill·40
Decorating Projects
Top Cold-Hardy Evergreens for Container GardensTop Cold-Hardy Evergreens for Container Gardens
By Lauren Dunec Hoang·10
Gardening Guides
Spring Patio Fix-Ups: Install an Outdoor Fireplace or Fire PitSpring Patio Fix-Ups: Install an Outdoor Fireplace or Fire Pit
By Laura Gaskill·51
Patios
Shop Related Categories
Trash Cans
Trash Cans
Wastebaskets
Wastebaskets
Laundry Hampers
Laundry Hampers
Vacuum Cleaners
Vacuum Cleaners
Ladders & Step Stools
Ladders & Step Stools
Household Cleaning Products
Household Cleaning Products
Sponsored
Virginia Kitchen & Bath
84 Reviews
Virginia's Award Winning One Stop Kitchen & Bath Remodeling Resource
People who liked this story also liked
You Showed Us: 20 Nutty Home Fixes
You Showed Us: 20 Nutty Home FixesFull Story
How to Get Rid of Household Mold
How to Get Rid of Household MoldFull Story
The Quick and Easy Way to Clean a Microwave
The Quick and Easy Way to Clean a MicrowaveFull Story
How to Clean Your Washing Machine
How to Clean Your Washing MachineFull Story
A Clean Home for the Holidays in 5 Days
A Clean Home for the Holidays in 5 DaysFull Story
25 Gorgeous Holiday Mantels by Houzzers
25 Gorgeous Holiday Mantels by HouzzersFull Story
How to Clean Your Range and Oven
How to Clean Your Range and OvenFull Story
A Fine Mess: How to Have a Clean-Enough Home Over Summer Break
A Fine Mess: How to Have a Clean-Enough Home Over Summer BreakFull Story
How to Avoid Dryer Fires During the Holidays
How to Avoid Dryer Fires During the HolidaysFull Story
7 Ways to Rock a TV and Fireplace Combo
7 Ways to Rock a TV and Fireplace ComboFull Story
Sponsored
Marks-Woods Construction Services, LLC
48 Reviews
Northern Virginia Full Service General Contractor
  • United States
  • ABOUT
  • CAREERS
  • MOBILE APPS
  • PROFESSIONALS
  • BUTTONS
  • FOR BRANDS
  • SELL
  • Privacy & Notice
  • Terms
  • © 2021 Houzz Inc.