Chimney FAQ
I’ve booked a sweep what do I need to do?
Relax! We do not require you to do anything. All we ask is that no fire is lit 24hrs before we are due to arrive. We will carry out everything else.
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I need to cancel or rearrange my booking?
Not a problem, once you book you will be given access to manage your booking online giving you control of when your chimney is swept.
How often does my chimney need sweeping?
Frequency will depend on a number of factors which include the type of fuel used, appliance, duration of use, moisture content of wood fuel, and the type of chimney you have. we will be able to advise on the sweeping frequency during the appointment. The sweeping frequencies below are for guidance purposes only:-
Smokeless fuel: At least once a year
Wood: Quarterly when in use
Bituminous coal: Quarterly when in use
Oil: Once a year
Gas: Once a year
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Why should I use a NACS Chimney Sweep?
NACS Chimney Sweeps undertake a rigorous training course and have to successfully complete a full assessment prior to becoming a NACS Member. All NACS Members must hold valid insurance for Chimney Sweeping, of which they provide a copy of to the Association on an annual basis. They must also have the correct equipment to be able to undertake the job which is checked at the time of their assessment.
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Will having my Chimney Swept make a mess?
We are very mindful and conscious of making as little mess as possible, and are in fact are trained in the prevention of dust escaping during sweeping. However, there are exceptional circumstances e.g. if a chimney may be blocked with a birds nest, which makes it difficult to guaranteed that no mess will be made.
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Do I need to have my gas/oil flues swept?
Yes, although burning these fuels does not normally deposit soot, there are still numerous other problems which can affect chimney function which sweeping can solve or identify. It will also help with the prevention of chimney fires and even carbon monoxide poisoning.
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Why do I need to see the brush out the top of the chimney?
This to demonstrate that the flue has been swept throughout its length.
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I’ve just moved house – do I need to have my chimney cleaned?
Yes, as you may not necessarily know when it was last cleaned properly by a professional Chimney Sweep. Please let us know when booking.
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Why do I need my chimney swept before it is closed off?
If a chimney is closed off, it can become damp. If there is soot in your chimney, then this soot can turn into a black acidic slurry that in an old chimney can soak into the internal walls causing severe problems. If the damp gets bad, then it can penetrate through the wall into the room where it will cause unpleasant stains on the walls.
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Why are there smoke marks just above the fireplace?
This may be caused by smoke leaking back into the room; give us a call and we can advise on what to do next.
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A bird has come down my chimney, how do I prevent this happening again?
We can advise and fit a suitable terminal / guard for your chimney.
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What Happens to the collected soot?
We normally dispose of the soot or we can give it to you for the garden