Why is maintenance needed?
Fireplaces and woodstoves are designed to provide heat while safely containing a wood-fueled fire. The chimney exhausts smoke, tar fog, gases, water vapor and other by-products of combustion. As smoke flows up the relatively cooler chimney, soot and creosote condensation occurs. If the combination of soot and creosote is allowed to accumulate, it may ignite and a chimney fire can occur. The temperature of this fire (up to 2000 degrees) can damage the chimney and provide a pathway for flames to reach the combustible wood frame of the house. Regular maintenance and needed repair is necessary to ensure the safety and performance reasons. American Chimney Sweep provides the necessary services to keep your system in optimal condition at all times.
Chimney Sweeping
Includes the sweeping of the chimney shaft, brushing and vacuuming the smoke chamber, damper and firebox as well as a visual evaluation of the firebox and shaft interior. Oral report at job. Most systems: $180
Performance & Diagnostics
General troubleshooting can be performed to solve various problems. Common troubles include: smoke entering the room, chimney shaft obstructions, poor system design, parts in disrepair, and heat escaping through the chimney due to defective dampers. Service call: $120
Inspection & Reports
Chimneys should be inspected annually and cleaned when needed. This service includes a Level 1 Inspection of readily accessible areas of the system and an oral report. Most systems: $120. For Real Estate transactions or Earthquake Damage evaluation, a Level 2 Inspection of accessible areas includes sweeping (if needed) and a written narrative report with photographs. Most systems: $390
Dryer Vent Cleaning
Lint collects in clothes dryer vents and is the major cause of slow drying time. In cases of severe blockage, a dryer motor can overheat or the lint may catch fire. A thorough cleaning with a rotating brush will clean through right angles and remove trapped lint. Most systems: $140
Spark Arrestors & Caps
A chimney cap will stop most rainwater from entering a chimney. Spark arrestors are a minimum fire safety requirement. They consist of a 5/8" inch mesh screen and are present in the design of most caps. Special air-cooled caps are needed for factory-built chimneys. Cost varies with size and type of system.
Liner Installation
Chimneys with a damaged or missing liner can allow heat to move quickly into adjacent woodwork. Clay flue tiles or stainless steel may be used to line masonry chimneys. Factory-built chimneys must be relined with a factory-approved metal chimney system.