Valley Chimney Sweep

Valley Chimney Sweep & Restoration, Inc.

Commonly Asked Questions

Q: Why should I have a rain cover on my chimney?

A: Rain can damage metal fireboxes and dampers. It can also erode mortar joints, causing the chimney to weaken. For rain protection, a top quality rain cover is the solution. A stainless steel model gives lifetime protection from moisture damage.

Rain covers also prevent animals from nesting in your chimney. Squirrels, raccoons and birds are the most common chimney invaders. Nesting is a serious fire hazard and can cause smoke or carbon monoxide vapors to back up into your home. Animals entering into your home through the chimney can do extensive damage to your furniture, drapes and carpet while trying to find an escape.

Q: Does my chimney need servicing?

A: National Fire Protection Code 211 requires an annual inspection of all chimney systems. Here's why: In a woodburning system, incomplete combustion results in unburned residue which rises in the chimney as part of the smoke. The residue is deposited on the inside of the chimney walls, presenting a major fire hazard to the home. Gas and oil flues should also be checked on an annual basis for any soot deposits or debris blockage which could lead to dangerous carbon monoxide poisoning. A chimney professional can sweep the inside of your chimney to eliminate these dangers.

Q: Why should I have my chimney waterproofed?

A: Waterproofing is the best preventative maintenance you can give the exterior of your chimney against premature aging and expensive repairs.

Q: If I am missing a brick on my chimney, is it necessary to get it repaired?

A: Yes. Loose or missing bricks and chimney deterioration can be symptomatic of a major problem. In many cases, minor repairs done early will save on huge repair bills later. In all cases this condition should be checked by a professional immediately to avert the dangers of fire hazard or structural failure.

Q: What is a "chimney sweep"?

A: A chimney sweep performs three basis functions when called upon to service a chimney system. First, the sweep thoroughly cleans the system. After the cleaning process, the sweep performs a complete visual inspection of the chimney and heating system. The sweep also takes steps to educate the consumer on the proper use of their heating and chimney system. Chimney sweeps are called upon on a regular basis to inspect chimney systems for the sale of a home, to document an insurance claim or to repair a chimney system to bring it up to safe working standards. There are times that even we will refuse to clean a chimney system because of the blatant safety hazards that exist.

Q: How is a chimney cleaned?

A: When one of our certified sweeps arrives, he/she will tarp the work area and assist you in moving items out of the area. The chimney will then be evaluated for it's condition ad if a cleaning is in order. A special dust collection vacuum will run during the cleaning process. The damper will be removed if possible and the flue cleaned from the roof or from the appliance opening. If the unit is a fireplace, the smoke shelf and smoke chamber will be cleaned. The firebox is cleaned by hand, all debris is removed and the damper is re-installed.

There is a possibility that a tar or glazed creosote will be present in the chimney, and this cannot be removed by a regular cleaning. There are several ways in which glazed creosote can be removed and we will inform you of the options and quote you a price if this type of creosote removal is needed.