FAQs

  

Below is a list of our most frequently asked question but don't hesitate to get in touch if your query is not explained.

I've just had a chimney fire, is it ok to use my fire?

No, not before getting it professionally surveyed.  A chimney fire can reach temperatures of  well over a 1000 degrees and can damage your chimney and allow gasses to escape. We have observed sand melt around chimney liners during a fire of high intensity. These fire gases (Smoke) may leak from you chimney and cause a fire or pose a carbon monoxide risk. Get your chimney surveyed after a high thermal event like a chimney fire to make sure it is safe to use. Some chimney liners can fail after just one high temperature event.

I think my chimney or stove may be too close to combustible materials?

This is a very serious problem if the stove or chimney is too close to combustible materials as there may be a high chance of this resulting in a house fire. Just because appliances have been installed for some time does not mean they are safe. We can carry out a range of tests on appliances and chimneys to ensure they are safe for use.

My fireplace or stove smokes into the room is this safe?

No, smoke contains many harmful chemicals and there should be no smoke in the room with the appliance or any other room in the house. We can diagnose the cause and offer a solution to prevent the smoke presenting again. There are many potential causes including but not limited to chimneys that are too short, depressurisation of the room due to extractor fans in the same room or bathrooms/shower rooms nearby. Chimneys terminating in high or low pressure zones. Too many bends in flue runs.

 

How long will it take to get my chimney swept?

Depending on the size and condition of the flue and fireplace, work should be completed within the hour for a standard two-story open fireplace and flue.

What should I do before the 'sweep' arrives?

Don't light a fire 24 hours before the chimney is swept. Please remove any objects on or around the fireplace. Remove any waste and ash from your appliance

What should I expect to happen when the sweep arrives?

The Sweep will examine the exterior of the chimney stack, pot and flaunching. The chimney place opening or stove will then be sealed with a special sheet or foam inserts that allow the appropriate cleaning method and rods to be passed through thus preventing soot entering the room.
 
The flue will be swept using the appropriate cleaning system for the flue. The use of incorrect brush head or rods may damage your flue liner!
 
The removed soot/creosote deposits will be vacuumed as the sweeping takes place with a special industrial vacuum which has special HEPA filters to prevent dust escaping. A certificate will be completed and any further testing needs may be offered to the client.
 
Stove servicing is also offered, please click here for further details.

How often should I have my chimney cleaned?

That depends on the type of fire and fuel burned, have a look at the table below for guidelines.

 

 Wood burning fires  Quarterly when in use
 Solid fuel fires  Once a year if using smokeless coal
 Solid fuel fires  Twice a year if using coal
 Oil fires  Once a year
 Gas fires  Once a year if cleaning is applicable