Of all the chores that pile up on your to-do list every week, cleaning your chimney might be one that gets put off again and again. With an estimated 25,000 fires a year that start in the chimney, it would be wise to ensure your chimney has been cleaned and inspected and safe to use for the season.
Cleaning your chimney every year will remove the build up of soot and creosote. Soot can accumulate over time but is more easily removed than creosote. Creosote is a material that is highly flammable and when you burn a fire it can stick to the sides of your chimney. Using creosote sweeping logs can be beneficial because they can loosen the creosote and turn it into a more flaky consistency which will make your chimney easier to clean.
Depending on your location, getting your chimney cleaned can cost anywhere from $125 to $300 depending on the size and scope of the job. It is always wise to budget for the unknown. If an animal has invaded or if there is significant damage that needs to be repaired before you are able to proceed then your budget will most likely increase.
If you are saying to yourself I have a gas fireplace I don't need to worry about all this then think again! While soot and creosote might not be an issue there are still problems that can arise with a gas fireplace. A bird's nest or debris can invade your chimney so it is best to get them checked out every year as well.
Safety should always be at the forefront of your mind when dealing with a wood or gas burning fire. So it's best to be vigilant and get it checked out every year!
