How to Prepare for a Chimney Sweep Cleaning and Inspection

by Art Gibb, freelance writer on behalf of Utah Premier Chimney Cleaning ( 10-Dec-2012 )

If this is your first home in Utah with a wood stove or fireplace, you may be wondering why you need an inspection. Most of the time, homeowners and businesses call a chimney sweep in Salt Lake City, because they want to ensure their safety, as well as that of the people residing or working in the same building. Chimneys should be cleaned every year when they are used regularly. During this process, the sweep will remove all blockages and service the unit. Quite often, repairs are required. Poorly maintained smokestacks can cause devastating fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Choose a Chimney Sweep
Check out several companies in your area that offer chimney sweep services. Be thorough, because the safety of your home and family is at stake. The person completing the work should be knowledgeable and skilled. He should have several years of experience or work closely together with a mentor. It can be very frustrating when an untrained individual shows up and needs to call his employer for instructions while on the job. That could also be very dangerous.
Prepare Your Home
There are several things you can do to help with a chimney sweep in Salt Lake City:
• Stop using the chimney 24 hours prior to your appointment.
• Move furniture and breakables away from your fireplace or stove.
• Clear six to eight feet around the work area.
• Lock up pets during the cleaning procedure.
Facts to Remember
• Animals frighten easily from the noise of the vacuum.
• Dust, sooth, and other particles inside the chimney will be contained.
• Because of all the prep work, cleaning a chimney does not create a health hazard.
• Dust and debris are captured with a specialized vacuum.
• An all-inclusive company takes care of all aspects, including repairs.
Finding the Right Professional
The best way to locate a company specializing in premier chimney cleaning is by collecting referrals from friends and family. Use their experiences to your advantage. Ask who these homeowners hired to do this type of work, and why they were pleased with the services they received. How long has this company been in business?
Competitive Prices
Request a price quote from a chimney sweep in Salt Lake City before making a commitment. Prices vary like in all industries. The expert should complete the inspection and cleaning safely, yet for a price you can afford. Compare the cost of basic services, as well as rebuilding and repairing a chimney. The time spent on researching several companies can save you a pretty penny.

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