It’s spring, and before you know it, the days will be humid and hot. It may not seem like it now, but unless your chimney is equipped with a top-sealing damper, this humidity will affect your chimney. Humid air and moisture mingling with the soot and creosote in your chimney can cause corrosion to the liner and masonry. Humid, warm air can also bring strong, foul odors into your living space. Instead of the refreshingly crisp scents of spring, you may get the odors befitting a barbecue grill right in your living room. Avoid these hassles and more by scheduling your annual chimney sweep.
Why Sweep the Chimney
Both the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) agree that routine chimney sweeps and annual inspections keep the chimney safe and efficient. The average homeowner won’t notice a problem with the chimney system until damage has already occurred. A professional knows what to look for and how to avoid chimney damage. Your annual chimney sweep and inspection may be the only time a professional (or anyone) gets a look at your chimney system. Routine sweeps will keep your chimney working properly, raising efficiency and making it easier and more enjoyable to light and burn a fire. Routine care such as sweeps and inspections will also keep your chimney working for longer.
What to Expect
Professionalism
When you schedule your chimney sweep with The Mad Hatter, we will not leave you guessing. Our technicians are CSIA and NFPA certified, are thoroughly vetted, and participate in mandatory and ongoing training.
The Sweep
First, our technician will cover the area in front of and surrounding the hearth with tarps, setting up a dust collector to prevent any traveling particles from escaping the area. Using special tools, the sweep will clean the chimney from top to bottom, clean the damper and damper assembly, inspecting it and making necessary adjustments. The dust is collected using a powerful vacuuming system with a triple layer HEPA filter.
The Evaluation
Our sweep will clean up the area inside before heading outside to evaluate the exterior portions of the chimney. Part of this evaluation includes documentation of all damage to the brickwork, mortar work, and crown.
The Report
After the chimney sweep and evaluation, you will receive a written report concerning the appointment, as well as any photos for your records of damage to the exterior masonry.
The Guarantee
Our technicians are trusted professionals who have undergone classroom and field training, are experienced, and put your safety and comfort above all else. We guarantee our work, and we stand by our chimney sweeps. We trust them; you can too.
When you are getting down to the dirty business of spring cleaning, don’t get your hands dirty on the chimney. Call the professionals! The Mad Hatter is a phone call away. Call 317.596.0200 or request an appointment online today.