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Category: Chimney Sweep

How To Prevent Chimney Fires?

Call the chimney cleaning company, because the Holiday season is almost here. For some, nothing says the Holidays more than sipping a hot cup of cocoa beside a crackling fire in the fireplace. Feeling the warmth and enjoying the glow of the embers as they waft up the chimney. Before we get too comfortable though, here are a few things to watch out for which might save lives start to learn tips on preventing chimney fires.

Preventing Chimney Fires

You May Not Notice a Chimney Fire

Did you know that most chimney fires go undetected?

Sometimes, chimney fires won’t have enough fuel or air to cause a noticeable fire. Even though there is no sign of visible combustion, these slow-burning fires reach high temperatures and can cause enormous damage to the chimney structure.

8 Main Signs that a professional chimney sweep will look for when providing chimney cleaning services and inspection

  1. A distorted or discolored rain cap
  2. Roof damage near the chimney
  3. Discoloration from smoke escaping through masonry joints or tile liners
  4. A buildup of a creosote residue: black or brown, highly combustible residue, especially if it has a puffy or “honey-comb” appearance 
  5. Evidence of heat damage
  6. Cracked or compromised brickwork
  7. Missing cement/mortar between brickwork
  8. Cracked, collapsed, or missing flue tiles

Best Practice

A damaged chimney poses a danger to the home and those who live there. Regularly scheduled chimney cleaning services and inspections are the best and most proactive way to keep the chimney safe and reduce problems. 

How to Prevent Chimney Fires

It’s tempting sometimes to add items to the fire especially if they give off pretty colors or cause a pop! Resist the temptation to throw anything and everything flammable into the fireplace. To prevent toxic gases and fumes in the air, buildup of flammable creosote on the chimney walls, and other combustible elements from forming, only use what is safe to burn. 

6 Common Items NOT to Burn 

  1. Cardboard – especially with printed ink, may release toxic fumes when burned. 
  2. Unseasoned wood – also known as wet wood. Unseasoned wood contains a high percentage of water and can create thick, excessive smoke when burned. 
  3. Christmas trees – as tempting as it might be, not only are Christmas trees unseasoned wood, if preservatives have been added to the water to prevent needle drop, this preservative is now being burned into the environment. 
  4. Paper – can easily go airborne once it catches fire. Stray embers are a leading cause of fires. Colored paper including wrapping paper is especially dangerous as it releases carcinogens and chemical fumes.  
  5. Painted or treated wood – when burned, painted or treated wood releases toxic chemicals into the air as well as sometimes smelling bad. 
  6. Material products– sometimes thought of as an easy way to light a fire, materials such as clothing release dangerous carcinogens and chemical fumes because of dyes and fire retardant substances. 

To enjoy a fire, burn seasoned wood, keep the damper open, and opt for an annual chimney cleaning and inspection. The cozy warmth of a fireplace in wintertime can help get us into the holiday spirit.

Schedule a Chimney Cleaning To Prevent Chimney Fires 

Our services at The Irish Sweep can help safely maintain and enjoy a wood-burning fireplace and chimney for years to come. 

To schedule an appointment with a professional, call us at (510)521-4088, or use this simple contact form by clicking here.

Why you Need a Home Inspection Chimney?

Before you buy your dream home, it’s important to get a full home inspection chimney. Home inspection chimney can uncover potentially life-threatening problems like toxic mold, faulty wiring that could cause a significant fire, or unstable structures just months away from collapsing. Often as buyers, we expect a professional home inspection chimney service to cover all aspects of the property, but the chimney needs a separate qualified evaluation for many safety reasons. 

The health and safety of your family could depend on your decision to go through with a chimney inspection. Here’s some important information you need to know about why home inspection chimney are crucial when it comes to purchasing new homes. 

What a home inspection chimney could uncover:

Potential Water Damage

Did you know that  the foundation of a chimney is typically only 12 inches deep? That means that with earth movement from summer to winter, water damage from sprinklers, downspouts, and weather conditions could render your chimney foundation dangerous. 

Neglected Spaces

 Most inspections are carried out for the purpose of the loan lender or negotiations, and they may not always serve the buyer. Make sure that your home inspection includes often-forgotten spaces like the crawl space, basement, attics, chimney, fireplace, and loft area. A smart buyer can even use details from the full home inspection to negotiate with the seller.

Shifting from New Construction

Has the space around the chimney been newly landscaped, subject to digging, or under construction? Have there been significant earthquakes since the last chimney inspection? Shifting of the earth underneath or around the chimney could cause instability, which is why it’s important to make sure the inspection includes outdoor areas surrounding the chimney. 

Instability from Cold Weather

With the drought and hotter weather, the hard soil can stabilize a chimney to some degree, but only temporarily. As cold weather moves in, dampness and moisture soften the soil around the base of the chimney, allowing movement in the structure which could render the chimney unstable. Even if the house is on a concrete slab and the chimney is surrounded by concrete, the concrete still absorbs the moisture and the chimney can still move. If your area experiences high winds, wet weather, and earthquakes, instability can be particularly dangerous. 

Fireplace Inserts: Extra Credit

Once your fireplace and chimney have been thoroughly inspected and cleaned, you may be looking for ways to enjoy the ambience of a crackling fire. A fireplace insert is a fuel-efficient, heat-efficient method of doing just that. The closed combustion system of a fireplace insert can be 60% to 80% heat efficient, contrasting with traditional or older fireplaces that only convert 5% to 20% of fuel into usable heat. You can enjoy watching the flames through the glass doors of the fireplace insert while needing less firewood to keep them stoked. 

Schedule a Home Inspection Chimney Now 

Our services at The Irish Sweep can help you safely maintain and enjoy your wood-burning fireplace and chimney for years to come. To schedule an appointment with an expert, call us at (510)521-4088, or use this simple contact form by clicking here.

The Accidental Chimney Sweep

Are you looking for an Alameda chimney cleaner? Meet Sally McKnight—Sal to her friends, the woman behind The Irish Sweep. This is the story of how she got an unexpected start in the industry.

Sally Answers an Ad

In 1982, Sally responded to an advertisement that was placed by Jim Halloran, a hot-headed New Yorker from Brooklyn who started the original company in the 70s with guts and determination, but no real plan. He hired her to work part time in the office, answering phones and scheduling appointments.

lafayette chimney cleaner

She was a fast typist at a time when things were still done by hand, but she didn’t yet know anything about fireplaces or chimneys so she wasn’t (in her own words) an “effective communicator with customers.” Truth be told, Jim Halloran didn’t know much more than his new office assistant did, but he struck out to learn from experience.

This is a photo of him with his first sweeping vehicle and his trusty dog, Sweeper.

lafayette chimney cleaner

One day, Halloran asked Sally if she would be willing to ride along with him in the van and sweep some chimneys. He needed an extra set of hands. She agreed and that was the beginning of their future partnership. Of that initial experience, Sally said, “Well, I went out there and just loved being outdoors all day long, meeting new people along the way, working in some amazing homes and gaining new skills.” She quit her other retail position and joined the business full time.

Chim-Chimney

But it wasn’t easy. Not only were they learning on the job, but when she first began, some customers called her a “powder puff” and questioned how a woman could do the work, while others wouldn’t let her touch their fireplace unless she sang and danced “Chim-Chimney”—from the beloved children’s movie Mary Poppins.

Buying The Irish Sweep

Later, a partnership was formed and Sally became half owner of The Irish Sweep. But eventually she became frustrated with Jim and offered him a buyout.  She scraped together enough cash to purchase Halloran’s half of the business. The year was 1988. A lot has changed since then, but Sally is still the dynamic force behind The Irish Sweep.

Since those early years, she has become an educator in her community, having sat on the Board of Directors for the National Chimney Sweep Guild and for the Chimney Safety Institute of America. She has also been President of the Golden State Chimney Sweep Guild, and now serves as treasurer. Not bad for a “powder puff.”

Talk to an Alameda Chimney Cleaner

To schedule an appointment with an Alameda chimney cleaner at The Irish Sweep, call us at (510)521-4088 or use this simple contact form by clicking here. You can also read testimonials on our site. Your safety is our number one priority. We look forward to hearing from you.

Your Summer Home Dryer Maintenance Checklist

Check out our ultimate dryer maintenance checklist of summer home dryer maintenance checklist tips to help you give your home some TLC, and learn how our experts at The Irish Sweep can help!

Ah, summer is here. The temperatures are soaring, the sun is blazing, and the days are long. It’s important that you take the time to maintain your home this summer and to prepare it for the extreme heat that you could be facing. If you’ve been scouring the internet for dryer vents cleaning, chimney services, or fireplace installation, look no further.

Indoor Summer Home Dryer Maintenance Checklist

  1. Do a test of your smoke detectors. Replace the batteries if needed.
  2. Get your cooling system ready. Replace the filter in your air conditioner.
  3. Get your chimney cleaned. Yes, you might not use your fireplace again until fall or winter, but that’s exactly why this is the perfect time to call a chimney cleaning service. They won’t be as busy!
  4. Reverse the direction of the ceiling fan if necessary. During summer, use your ceiling fan in a counterclockwise direction – this directs airflow down to create a cooling effect. Take the time to dust the fan blades, too!
  5. Clean the garbage disposal. When’s the last time you tackled your garbage disposal? Exactly.
  6. Take on some decluttering. Why not take the chance to go on a Marie Kondo-style decluttering spree?
  7. Clean your dryer vents. Professional dryer vent cleaning services help your dryer work more efficiently, use less energy to do its job, and extend its lifespan. Clogged dryer vents are also a fire hazard.
  8. Be aware of material shortages due to the pandemic. Reduced fabrication of certain appliances due to restricted access to materials is an unfortunate side effect of the coronavirus pandemic. If you have considered installing a gas or wood burning insert to your fireplace, begin the process now! Retailers and installers recommend starting renovation now to avoid a long wait for materials.

Outdoor Summer Home Dryer Maintenance Checklist

  1. Clean your grill to prep for summer barbecuing. Use hot water, dish soap, and a scrub brush to clean a charcoal grill. For a gas grill, close the lid, turn the heat to high, and let the grill cook for about half an hour. Let it cool, then use a grill brush to sweep the grill and clean the drip trays.
  2. Consider your watering schedule. If you’ve got plants, think about your strategy for watering them over the summer.
  3. Add a layer of mulch. Also, some extra mulch will help fight off weeds and help your soil retain moisture during those scorching summer months.
  4. Protect your home against unwanted guests. Caulking your windows and doors can help stop bugs and ants from infiltrating your home.
  5. Don’t forget the pool. If you have a swimming pool, take the time to give it a good clean so it’s all ready for the summer.
  6. Consider an outdoor clothesline. Take advantage of the warm weather and put up an outdoor clothesline so you’re not using your dryer as much.
  7. Put a sturdy mat at the door. Help your guests avoid tracking in dirt by having a good mat at your front door.

Need Alameda Dryer Vents Cleaning?

So, there you have it – our summer home dryer maintenance checklist tips. The above list will help you clean up and take care of your home this summer. Preventive home maintenance can even help you save money on home insurance, and it’s never too late to start!

Our services at The Irish Sweep can help you get your home summer-ready in no time. To schedule an appointment with an expert, call us at (510)521-4088, or use a simple contact form by clicking here.

Why You Need Chimney Cleaning Before Starting a Fire

Oakland chimney cleaning before starting a fire is not only a safety precaution, but it also helps your fireplace to work more efficiently.

Do you love your fireplace? Us too. There’s nothing better than curling up by a crackling fire on a cold night. But unless you schedule regular chimney cleaning, your fireplace is actually a safety concern. The primary reason to clean a chimney before use is to avoid the risk of starting a house fire. But a fire may also go undetected by home occupants. Here’s how it works…

Creosote? What’s That?

The majority of people burn wood in their fireplace, which means they’re at risk of creosote buildup. With use, this compound known as creosote can line the inside of your chimney. This becomes a problem over time because it’s highly flammable.

There are multiple factors that influence how much creosote will stick to the sides of your chimney. These factors can include things like the amount of air inside the chimney, whether or not you burn unseasoned wood, as well as how many times a year you enjoy your fireplace.

The only reliable way to fully remove creosote from the walls of your chimney is to hire a pro. You need someone who has the right equipment and knowledge to get the job done. Most professional chimney sweeps recommend that you schedule an annual inspection and Oakland chimney cleaning—at the bare minimum. Otherwise, you’re putting your home and household at risk.

Avoiding a House Fire

Historically, most homes were heated by a fireplace, so it was standard knowledge that chimneys needed to be cleaned by chimney sweeps. During this period of time, it was a well-known fact that chimneys required regular maintenance. But now a fireplace is more like a cozy novelty for the majority of homeowners. And, since very few people rely on a fireplace to heat their house these days, knowing how to properly care for a chimney is something homeowners need to relearn.

Although times have changed and we now enjoy the benefits of modern comfort, Oakland chimney cleaning is still necessary in order to prevent house fires. Without regular maintenance, your house runs the risk of becoming a fire statistic. In fact, this costs homeowners over a million dollars in property damage each year, not to mention the number of injuries or deaths. Unfortunately, house fires are still a serious concern.

More specifically, the Chimney Safety Institute of America indicates that chimney fires continue to be a frequent problem. They report that there are an estimated 25,000 chimney fires each year that cause a total of $125 million in damages. If the fire spreads to areas inside the home, injuries and deaths are possible as well.

Recognizing a Chimney Fire

It’s likely that you might not notice a chimney fire. They are slow burns and hardly make a noise. But you may hear loud popping or cracking noises, or see thick, dark smoke coming into the fireplace, or out through the top of the chimney. Flames can also rise out of the top of the chimney, where neighbors sometimes notice them before the problem becomes worse. Some homeowners have reported chimney fires that sound like a jet engine in the house or even a train. But, hopefully, a grimy chimney would never get to that point.

Structural Damage

Chimney fires are especially dangerous since they can burn at temperatures exceeding 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Although the fire may not seem to be a problem because it burns off the creosote and is extinguished, these extreme temperatures can cause other problems. For example, 2,000 degrees is more than enough heat to crack tiles and melt mortar. It will weaken the masonry chimney structure.

Without proper chimney cleaning services, the creosote that builds up inside your chimney can contribute to the strength and heat of a fire. This is because it’s a fuel source that allows for rapid combustion. The end result is that the chimney can become damaged by these occurrences. But you may not even realize it without regularly scheduled chimney maintenance. Even if it doesn’t result in a more dangerous fire, you’re in for some costly repairs.

How Often Do You Need Oakland Chimney Cleaning?

Since the average homeowner probably won’t be able to tell if their chimney and fireplace need a little extra TLC, it’s best to plan for an annual inspection. These appointments can save you money in the long run, and also help protect your home. But how often do you actually need Oakland chimney cleaning services?

Unfortunately, it’s unavoidable that when you use your fireplace to burn wood, residue is going to accumulate on the walls. Although the frequency of chimney cleaning may vary (depending on how often you use your fireplace), once a year is usually enough.

rELATED cONTENT: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT OAKLAND CHIMNEY CLEANING

Preventative Maintenance

It’s always easier to prevent a problem than it is to fix the resulting damage. The best way to make sure that your chimney stays in good shape is to have annual maintenance and cleaning performed.

But some homeowners also want to learn how they can keep their house safer between professional Oakland chimney cleaning . With that in mind, here are a few suggestions that you can use if you want to do more:

  • Instead of letting ashes accumulate inside the firebox, regularly clean them out.
  • Only burn wood that has been properly seasoned. If you’re using wood that you’ve gathered yourself, allow it to season for at least a year (or more) before burning it. If you purchase wood from a vendor, make sure the company only offers seasoned wood.
  • Check to see if the damper is entirely open before starting a fire.
  • Never use painted or pressure-treated wood in the fireplace. This will increase the rate of creosote buildup, or possibly create toxic fumes.
  • Put the biggest logs on the bottom of the firebox and the smaller ones on top. The fire will burn hotter this way, and produce less smoke.
  • Schedule an annual Oakland chimney cleaning with a qualified professional. Hire an experienced Oakland chimney cleaning company to remove tar and creosote buildup.

Related Content: WHEN AND HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU GET A CHIMNEY INSPECTION?

If you’re going to be using your fireplace this winter, it’s important to have a Chimney Cleaning Before Starting a Fire. This article will explain the importance of getting your chimney cleaned before lighting a fire, and what you can do if

Hire an Oakland Chimney Cleaning Company

When hiring a chimney sweep, it’s best to choose a certified and insured professional. A certified chimney sweep will have the educational background and experience to get the job done right. Contact our friendly team at The Irish Sweep by calling (510) 521-4088.

Is it a Risky Idea to DIY Chimney Inspection?

Among these are dealing with a termite infestation, removing pipes from your walls, and, yes, cleaning your chimney. So, why shouldn’t you DIY chimney Inspection? There are a few reasons.

Have you been Googling how to sweep a chimney? We all like to save money now and then by “DIYing” something, but there are a few things that you definitely shouldn’t try to handle on your own.

It’s Not an Easy Job

To begin with, chimneys are oddly shaped. Professionals use special tools and equipment to properly clean the inside of your chimney. This includes brushes and vacuums that were designed for the job. They also use certain chemicals that do an excellent job of clearing away soot and creosote. People who attempt to do their own chimney sweeping also tend to push soot into their homes, which just causes more problems, not to mention the mess.

If you’ve been wondering how to sweep a chimney, know that there’s a reason this profession has been around for so long. It requires training and knowledge to be done properly. Professionals have the experience needed to get the job done right.

It’s Messy

Pros know the most effective methods to clean your fireplace and chimney, with the least amount of mess. If you try to DIY chimney sweep, you’re very likely to end up with soot and creosote all over your carpet and furniture.

You might be wondering if a chimney sweep needs to go on the roof. In most cases, the answer is no. Special equipment allows them to do almost every cleaning and inspection from in front of the fireplace. With training and experience, professional chimney sweeps are skilled experts who know how to keep your home tidy. They also observe proper safety protocols, such as wearing respirator masks and eye protection.

Fire Risks

Did you know that a buildup of soot and creosote can cause chimney fires? Cleaning a chimney is a thorough job that requires expert attention. Additionally, the pros know how to look for structural issues. Cracked flues or damaged dampers can lead to a whole slew of problems. It’s better to catch these issues before they lead to expensive repairs. Fortunately, professional chimney sweeps know everything about the anatomy of a chimney, as well as the telltale signs to look for when it comes to potentially dangerous structural issues.

The good news is that you really only need to schedule a fireplace and chimney inspection once a year. Make sure to plan your fireplace and chimney cleaning in advance, so you can cross it off your list before the holidays. It’s an important maintenance task that is likely to save you money in the long run.

Alameda Chimney Sweep

If you’re looking for a quality chimney sweep in the area, then look no further than DIY Chimney Cleaning. We offer professional chimney cleaning at affordable prices.If you need reliable service in the Alameda area, contact us at The Irish Sweep. We have the experience you need. Call our office at (510) 521-4088, or read more about us by clicking here.

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