Most of our clients require their chimneys to be swept once each year, however some chimneys require much more regular sweeping depending on fuel quality, chimney structure and usage. When our sweep visits, they advise on when your chimney will next require sweeping.

Yes, the deposits from burning fuel in a stove build up inside the flue just as they do with other heating appliances.

You cannot usually tell that your chimney requires sweeping, although if you are having problems using your open fire or stove, very often sweeping and inspecting the flue solves or identifies the cause of the problem.

A chimney cowl is a terminal at the top of the flue, usually attached to the chimney pot. It can be to keep rain or animals out, or to improve the performance of the flue such as reduce down drafts.

A camera is put up the entire length of the flue to inspect the condition. We use various models of camera depending on the detail of inspection required.

A smoke bomb is used which produces 24 cubic meters of smoke. This is carried out after each sweep to ensure that the smoke and dangerous gases are properly carried up the chimney and out of the property.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly, colourless, odourless, poisonous gas.

Yes, burning of solid fuels generates a very high amount of carbon monoxide in comparison to burning gas or oil. That is why it is essential to have your chimney checked and cleaned regularly by a registered chimney sweep?

A chimney sweep who has been trained and assessed by a recognised Chimney sweep association, such as the Guild of Master Chimney sweeps. Registration requires ongoing training and assessment. Many registered sweeps are also registered as HETAS approved sweeps, such as Fire work Chimney sweeps.

Usually you cannot but if you can smell smoke in another room then usually this would suggest a significant leak. A pressure test is usually required to identify a leak in a flue.

This is used to check if a flue is gas tight and safe to use. The flue is sealed top and bottom, pressure is built up in the flue and then checked for leakage.

There could be a number of reasons for this, weather conditions are often a factor, a blockage or partial blockage or even a baffle not fitted correctly can all affect the draw of the chimney and cause smoke to come back into the room.

A bird guard can be fitted to your chimney. This is a cap with mesh around the side which prevents birds entering the flue. The cowl needs to conform to regulations as there is a danger that with the wrong cowl that fumes may not safely leave the property.

Chimney sweeping is a much cleaner process that it was in the past. You do not need to cover furniture. We bring sheets to cover our working area and seal up the fire opening. 

We do require you to leave space around the fire to allow us to work and please empty fuel, ashes and rubbish from the fireplace or stove.

You can use your fire or stove straight away.

Creosote is a by-product from burning wood. When smoke travels up your chimney it solidifies and sticks to the sides of the chimney.

You can learn more about it on our Creosote removal page.