One thing anyone with a fireplace or wood-burning stove in their home would agree on is that they need their chimney functioning properly. Otherwise, there is the possibility of the room flooding with smoke. People need their fireplaces to stay warm and cozy, especially in the winter.
It is necessary to hire a trained chimney inspector to inspect the chimney from time to time. Chimney inspection and sweeping are essential components of professional Chimney Repair in Cork. These are necessary for ensuring the chimney is functioning reliably without any signs of damage or blockage.
However, before hiring a chimney sweeping and repair company one must keep in mind certain things.
Why is a Chimney Sweep Necessary?
Chimney sweeping prevents the possibility of certain risks from taking place, saving the property owners a lot of money, time and stress.
It reduces the risk of carbon monoxide emission: Burning raw fuel like gas, wood or coal releases carbon monoxide along with other harmful by-products. A properly functioning chimney efficiently carries the carbon monoxide out through the roof. If it is not cleaned, then this process is prone to failure. The majority of chimney failures occur due to inadequate inspection and cleaning which can otherwise be avoided.
It helps prevent possible chimney fires: Burning fuel like unseasoned wood leads to the buildup of a by-product called creosote. This is a highly combustible material which is the cause of the majority of chimney fires. Cleaning the chimney is an excellent means of avoiding any perils brought on by a chimney fire.
It saves the client money: Chimney cleaning is a highly preferred service for reducing heat transfer efficiency by 50%. Chimney inspectors can also discover air leaks which if repaired on time can reduce the overall energy bill.
How Often should one Hire a Chimney Sweep?
According to the national fire protection association, homeowners with chimneys, vents and fireplaces should have them inspected at least once a year. This is applicable in the case of those who only use their solid fuel-burning appliances once a week, for instance, to keep warm on cold winter nights.
Those who use their chimneys and fireplaces often should arrange for more frequent inspection and cleaning services. This is especially applicable when the owners observe signs like a creosote glaze which is described as a thick ink-like substance similar to the icing on a cake that drips down from the chimney into the fireplace area. When such incidents occur, the property should consider booking an immediate sweep.
What Happens During a Chimney Sweep?
Every chimney sweep starts typically with an inspection and a basic clean-up. This may take a couple of hours depending on the location, condition of the chimney and speed at which the sweeping is executed.
This inspection and cleaning may take place inside the chimney, up on the roof or both, simultaneously. The sweepers may or may not use a camera to get an inside view of the chimney. Professionals would make sure to take proactive measures to minimize the mess and debris as much as possible.
In case the chimney requires a deeper clean then the sweepers would apply a chemical to remove the buildup of creosote glaze in its late stages. This process may take up to a few hours. It may take up even more time if the cleaners need to conduct minor chimney repairs, for example replacing the chimney cap or a damaged chimney liner. The repairs can be completed on the same day or take much longer depending on the sweeper's policy or the tools available to them.
In-depth repairs like masonry work might require the assistance of specialized help. The homeowner would need to discuss with the sweepers what repairs are necessary and what can be dealt with later.
Why Hire a Professional?
Cleaning, repairing or sweeping a chimney is a messy and laborious task. This is why homeowners prefer to leave the perils of chimney cleaning to the professionals since they provide the following;
They are capable of implementing fast and smooth clean-ups.
They are capable of executing comprehensive inspections and have the expertise to identify potential structural weaknesses in the chimney liner, or the chimney itself.
They effectively remove all debris and blockages without inflicting any damage.
They can conduct essential repairs if required, such as replacing the chimney cap or liner. They can make masonry repairs too if necessary but that needs to be approved by the state.
Questions you need answering before Hiring
It has been established so far that not cleaning the chimneys has potential consequences. The same can be said about hiring a chimney company without asking the following questions;
How Long has the Company Been in Business?
There is no point in spending one's hard-earned money on a chimney inspection and sweeping company that does not have the experience to get the work done. If things go wrong, the damages could be even more severe. This is why it is crucial to enquire how long the company has been in business to ensure that they know the specifics of cleaning a fireplace.
Do they have Favorable Reviews?
It is a common practice in the modern world to check the reviews of the companies being compared before finalizing who to hire. The opinion of the customers plays a significant role in verifying whether a service-based company is genuine or not. Though this same policy is applied when purchasing products, they can still be returned whereas services cannot.
Are there any complaints against the company?
The goal is to always look for a trained professional who works for a reputable company. However, even a company with a good reputation can have a few bad apples in the bunch. Hence, check with organizations like the city or state consumer protection agency or Better Business Bureau to check if the company has any unresolved complaints in its history.
Do they Carry Liability Insurance?
Liability coverage is crucial for making sure that both the technicians and the property owner are protected from any harm caused. The proof of insurance should only be acquired from the insurance company. The sweeping company can have a Certificate of Insurance sent by their insurance provider. Companies that send a certificate directly from their end might be prone to fraudulence.
Do they hire trained and certified Professionals?
Cleaning technicians who are hired to work on structures and appliances like chimneys and vents must have earned an individual certification that authenticates their skill. Otherwise, it increases the liability of potential damage.
Chimneys and appliances like fireplaces are highly useful when it is to keep warm in the winter. They can also be hired when the property requires Home Renovation Services in Cork so that owners can enjoy a fresh new appearance and renewed chimney lifespan.