spring cleaning: sweep the chimney

Early in our spring cleaning series (see definitions: spring cleaning) we mentioned that most of the original reasons for the annual ritual have been made void by modern heating and cooling systems. Clean+istry, of course, forgot to cover the one item in the home that requires the traditional spring cleaning treatment: the chimney.

Why does the flue of a chimney require cleaning? Layers of soot can physically restrict flue space, making it difficult to vent the fireplace properly. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), as little as a 1/4″ to 1/2″ inch buildup of soot can restrict airflow by 17% in a typical masonry fireplace and by a choking 30% for the average prefabricated one.

Beyond just soot, birds, small animals and leaves often create homes in your chimney.

Anxious to move outdoors, we too often leave the chimney for the fall, when getting an appointment with a qualified professional is difficult. Make one now.

For a certified chimney sweep in your area, go to www.csia.org.
There you will find a database of certified professionals within fifty
miles of your home. Don’t stop there. After identifying a company ask
the following 5 CSIA recommended questions:

• How long has the chimney sweeping company been in business?
• Does the company offer current references?
• Does the company have unresolved complaints filed within the city or
  state consumer protection agency or Better Business Bureau?
• Does the company or individual carry a valid business liability
  insurance policy to protect your home and furnishings against
  accidents?
• Does the company ensure that a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep will be on the job site?

Clean+istry realizes that not everyone is comfortable asking these sorts of probing questions. But if you do, the company will know that you mean business. And you will thank us later.

photo: plattdana architects, via remodelista, where you can see a beautiful post on this amazing Connecticut house.