Chimney Sweeping

Blockage can cause carbon monoxide to enter the home

All chimneys need to be swept at least once a year, although if the chimney is used often we recommend twice a year, preferably before each winter as birds often use chimneys as nesting spots. Falling stonework, rubble, spider webs and leaves can easily block chimneys and stop or reduce the flow of air. These all combined block previously working chimneys; any blockage can alter the combustion balance or cause carbon monoxide to enter the home instead of being safely vented from the property.

Don’t leave it too late!

Carbon Monoxide is a silent killer: it has no colour, taste or smell. Even low levels of Carbon Monoxide can lead to permanent ill-health or death, especially in children. The early symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning can easily be mistaken for ‘flu. They include nausea, headaches, tiredness, dizziness and pains in the stomach/chest. Look out for sooting or staining around your appliance: it is a sign of inadequate venting of gases.

Ways to prevent chimney fires

Chimney fires can quickly spread to your home or business place, putting property, livelihoods, and loved ones in danger. House fires often cause serious damage to the masonry and brick work, leaving you with an expensive repair bill.

Ensure your chimney is swept regularly by a sweep that can supply a sweeping certificate. Use only recommended fuels for your appliance and flue type. Use dry seasoned woods, with no more than 20% moisture content and don’t burn cardboard rubbish such as cardboard boxes or plastic packaging.

It is vital that appliances are properly installed and serviced and have sufficient ventilation. We also strongly recommend the installation of a carbon monoxide detector in your home, this has in fact been the law on all new sold fuel appliances installed after 2011.

Home insurance policies usually have noted in the small print that if you operate a solid fuel appliance in your home, you need to show that your chimney has been maintained by a suitably competent person. As qualified professional chimney sweeps, we will sweep and smoke test the chimney and issue a certificate in compliance with home insurance policy requirements.