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Chimney Sweep Services Near Chattanooga, TN:
Work With Ashbusters Today

If you’ve been looking for a local chimney sweep company near you, the team at Ashbusters is here to help. We serve Chattanooga and its surrounding areas with care, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. If you need schedule your next chimney sweep service, reach out today.

original infographic asking how often a chimney sweep is needed - the answer is once per year, per industry experts

How Often Do I Need a Chimney Sweep & Inspection?

The general recommendation from industry leaders is to have your chimney inspected at least once a year, regardless of how often you use it. This is what is advised by places like the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and many more reputable organizations in the field.

This practice ensures that your chimney is safer for use and running as efficiently as possible.

Do you need to book a chimney sweep near you? We’re here to help. Call or reach out to us online now.

 

Building totally in flames and falling apart.
Old masonry brick with a crack going sideways.
Tall chimney with older cap - we fix leaky chimneys.

Do I Need a Chimney Sweeping if I Don’t Use My Fireplace?

Yes. Even if you don’t use your fireplace regularly, it’s important to schedule annual chimney inspections and sweeps.

Why? Because unused chimneys can still accumulate debris, such as animal nests, leaves, or twigs, which can create unpleasant odors in your home and cause chimney damage and deterioration. Additionally, moisture from rain or snow can cause decay throughout the chimney’s structure, leading to cracks or water damage that might go unnoticed without regular inspections.

What’s the big deal about chimney damage if you don’t use the fireplace? These damages can really lower the value of your home. Come time to sell, new buyers aren’t going to happy buying a home with a damaged fireplace. Not to mention, a lot of chimney issues – like leaks or crumbling bricks – can cause damage to other areas of your home, as well.

And then there’s the issue of ever wanting to use the fireplace down the line. Even if you don’t use it now, you never know when you might want to light a fire down the line. Stay prepared – book our annual chimney sweep today.

When Would I Require More Than One Chimney Sweep Per Year?

Certain circumstances may warrant more frequent cleanings than the standard one-sweep-per-year recommendation. Here are scenarios when you might need more than one chimney sweep per year:

  • You use your fireplace daily or multiple times per week. If you use your fireplace or wood stove frequently throughout the colder months, you may require a chimney sweep mid-winter.
  • You use your fireplace year round. If you burn a lot even during the summer months, you’ll likely need at least two sweepings per year, depending on how much your weekly usage is.
  • You don’t burn seasoned wood. Burning seasoned wood – wood that has been dried for at least 6-12 months – is always a recommended practice, as wet wood produces more creosote and may trigger the need for more sweepings.
  • You don’t follow proper burning practices. Along with burning wet wood, burning household waste, paper, or other non-recommended materials can produce excessive smoke and residue, leading to faster creosote accumulation.
  • You have multiple appliances venting through one chimney. If you have multiple heating appliances (like a fireplace and a wood stove) venting into the same chimney, you’ll likely need more frequent cleanings to manage the combined output of smoke, soot, and creosote.
  • You’re experiencing smoke backdrafts or other issues. If you have smoke backing up into your home, have difficulty starting fires, or notice a persistent smoky odor, it could indicate a blockage or excessive creosote buildup.
  • You’ve had bad weather. Severe weather – such as heavy rainstorms, high winds, or blizzards – can cause debris to accumulate in the chimney or trigger damage, warranting the need for an inspection and sweeping.
  • You’ve had a chimney fire. If you’ve had a chimney fire, it’s crucial to schedule an inspection and thorough cleaning before using the fireplace again, as chimney fires can cause structural damage and lead to blockages.
original infographic asking how what situations warrant more than on sweep per year

Your Trusted Chattanooga Chimney Company: Locals Always Hire Ashbusters

When it comes to chimney services near Chattanooga, Ashbusters is the name you can trust. As a local company, we understand the unique needs of our community and take pride in delivering top-notch fireplace service that ensures your home stays safer and warmer for the long haul.

Whether it’s a routine inspection, fireplace repair, or chimney cleaning, you can count on Ashbusters to get the job done right – just ask any of your neighbors. Let us show you why locals always choose Ashbusters for their chimney needs. Call or reach out online now.