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07 October 2014

For A Professional Chimney Sweep Virginia Beach Residents Do Not Have To Look Far

By Jocelyn Davidson


There are few things as cozy as a fire in a fireplace on a cold day. Somehow a fire signifies homeliness and intimacy. Yet fireplaces need to be maintained regularly. Over time, creosote and soot build up in the flute. This can become a serious fire hazard and the efficiency of the fireplace is compromised. To get the best chimney sweep Virginia Beach residents luckily do not have to look far and wide.

When creosote builds up in the flute of a fireplace it creates a threat and it can actually cause a serious fire. It is possible, however, to prevent this. A build up occurs when the flute is too big for the fireplace or the stove. In such instances it is better to install a smaller flute. A poor draft can also contribute to excessive build up of creosote. In such cases the best remedy is to make smaller fires and to ensure a free flow of air.

Even modern day sweepers still use brushes and rods to clean flutes. They can do it in one of two ways. The best and preferred way is to do it from the top downwards. They clean the top of the flute and add rods as they progress downwards. This is the best way of cleaning because the fireplace below is sealed and the soot and dust is contained inside the fireplace.

In some cases it is impossible to access the roof. In such instances the sweeper will clean from the bottom up. This means that the fireplace or stove cannot be sealed at the bottom and the job is therefore much messier. A lot of soot and dust tumbles down and this necessitate the covering of carpets and the removal of curtains prior to the cleaning operation.

This profession does pose some risks. Chief amongst these is the danger for contracting respiratory problems and the eyes are also very vulnerable. That is why it is important to wear protective clothing at all times. Most of the work is done on roofs and it is therefore also very important to make sure that ladder and other equipment are in good shape.

Not a lot of home owners view the cleaning of flutes as a do it yourself project. It can be dangerous and it is messy. It is certainly better to employ a contractor for this type of job. They know how to complete the job with the minimum of mess and they have the proper equipment to complete the task thoroughly. When employing a contractor it is always a good idea to ask for valid references.

It is not a good idea to wait until problems occur, damage is noticed or, worst of all, a fire ensues before doing something about maintaining the flute. Maintenance and cleaning should be scheduled at least twice each year, regardless of how frequently the stove or fireplace is used. It is simply not worth the fire risk. It is also vital to use qualified and experienced maintenance contractors.

Not everybody has the luxury to be able to relax in front of a cozy fire on cold days. Somehow a fire signifies intimacy, luxury and closeness. The reality is that fireplaces can be dangerous, especially if they are not maintained. It is vital to hire a professional cleaner and to make sure that the flute has an adequate draft.




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