There are several different tips for finding a certified chimney sweep. These tips include locating a chimney sweep near me, hiring one, avoiding a chimney fire, and how often to have them sweep your chimney. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any complaints filed against a sweep. If you have any questions, contact the Better Business Bureau. Once you have found the best sweep near me, you’ll have a much easier time hiring them for your home’s chimney.
How to find a certified chimney sweep?
There are two ways to find a certified service in your area: asking friends and family members for recommendations or using the CSIA Certified Professional Locator website. Neither method is particularly convenient, but both are effective ways to find a reputable sweep. When looking for a local sweep, look for one that carries the CSIA Certified Sweep logo. This certification means they’ve been trained by CSIA and must attend continuing education classes to stay top of industry standards.
All CSIA-certified services must complete rigorous testing, abide by strict safety standards, and invest in continuing education. Moreover, all CSIA-certified sweeps must display a CSIA-Certified badge to show that they are properly trained to deal with chimneys. Ultimately, you’ll want a CSIA-certified service near you.
Cost
The cost of a chimney sweep near me will depend on a few factors, including how often the chimney needs to be cleaned. The time since the chimney was last cleaned can also play a role. A thorough cleaning of a chimney may require several sessions, so you’ll have to pay for more than one visit. If you use your fireplace infrequently, it will likely need fewer visits than if you use it regularly.
In addition to sweeping the chimney, a service will check the firebox, liners, smoke chamber, and appliance clearances. They can also recommend repairs and replacements if necessary. In addition, a video inspection of the chimney may be necessary to identify hidden damage. Depending on how accessible your roof is, a sweep’s standard visit can cost between $75 and $250. However, if the professionals find hidden damage or work on a structural problem, the cost will rise.
Generally speaking, you should hire service before the fire-burning season begins. This way, you can start your heating season safely. If you decide to clean the chimney yourself, the best time to do it is late summer, when the weather is still warm, and the roof is dry. You can also hire a chimney sweep for a one-time cleaning in late summer, depending on your location.
