Cleaning a chimney can be a tricky and dangerous task, so it's best to leave it to the professionals. But how long does it take for a professional to clean a chimney? The answer depends on several factors, such as the presence of creosote, the condition of the chimney, and any obstructions. On average, it takes about two hours for a professional to clean a chimney from start to finish. Before the cleaning process begins, technicians will need to set up their equipment and place protective cloths to protect the living space from soot and debris.
This can take some time, but it's necessary for a thorough job. The chimney sweep will then use a heavy metal bristle brush to clean the inside of the chimney. These tools are long rods with bristles at the tip, and they are used to sweep debris from the inside of the chimney down the flue duct. Professional chimney sweeps will also be equipped with gloves, goggles, and masks to protect against soot and ash. The type of inspection you need will depend on how long it has been since your last chimney inspection or cleaning.
If it's been a while since your last cleaning, it may take longer this time around. If you have an antique fireplace or fireplace design, it may also take longer as the professional may not be as familiar with that design. It's important to note that DIY cleaning options are available on the market, but you'll want to find a professional, reliable chimney sweep in your area. Cleaning a chimney can be quite dangerous and if you're not sure what you're doing, it can make things worse. You should also clean your chimney when there is about an eighth of an inch of tank at the bottom. If you're concerned about how long the chimney cleaning process will take, you should request a quote in advance.
At this point, during chimney sweep cleaning, you'll also want to schedule a future appointment as businesses tend to book their schedules well in advance and you don't want the health of your chimney and home to be neglected. Now that you know what to expect, contact a representative from The Irish Sweep to set up your chimney cleaning service today. If you plan to paint your fireplace or remodel it, it's a good idea to clean it first so that debris or dirt doesn't fall off and ruin the paint.