Winter will be upon us before you know it. If you have wood burning stoves or fireplaces, now is the time to get them ready for use. Wood burning fireplaces build up creosote and soot on chimney walls very quickly. These materials are extremely flammable and thus the chimney should be cleaned regularly. You should also inspect your chimney cap that is open on the sides with mesh to protect birds and debris from entering the stack. Make sure the mesh is intact and the cap side are open and clear of debris so smoke and head can safely exit. This is important because without proper cleaning, the risk of smoke being trapped inside your home can cause damage to your home and its possessions and to the health of your family. Here are some tips to clean wood burning fireplace.
How to clean your wood burning chimney
Many people will hire a professional to do this task as it requires getting up on your roof. The basic tools are a chimney brush that matches the diameter of your chimney, and associated extension rods depending on the vertical length of your chimney.
Once safely on the roof, remove the chimney cap and scrape off the creosote with a wire brush. Then insert your chimney brush down the chimney scrubbing the edges. Inside the home, you’ll want to attach a plastic bag to on opening to catch all the debris.
Always remember safety first when climbing roofs. Sturdy ladders and having people around to spot you in case of any challenges.
