When you burn wood in a chimney, it typically leads to the accumulation of creosote and soot. This is a sticky and flammable substance that can result in chimney fires in case you do not remove it properly. In this case, you will have to hire professional chimney sweep services in order to get it removed. While we do not really suggest you clean your chimneys yourself, there are a number of ways in which you can do it. Just remember that if you clean your chimneys yourself, chances are that you will never be able to clean them properly. Basically, you will end up leaving some creosote here and there that can start a fire later on.

So, in order to fully reduce your risks of starting a chimney fire, make sure that you have cleaned it all up properly. Better yet, as a professional to do it for you rather than trying it on your own.

Ways to clean your chimneys

In this article, we discuss a number of ways using which you can clean your chimneys and get rid of all that creosote buildup. These include the following:

Prepare yourself

First of all, make some preparations to start the chimney cleaning process. In this regard, you will have to determine whether the chimney needs to be cleaned. Basically, all chimneys have to be cleaned at least once every year before the start of the heating season.

In order to check the condition of your chimney from the inside, make use of a flashlight and take a peek inside the chimney flute. Now, make use of a plastic knife in order to scrape some of the creosote off. In case the creosote is 1/8 in thickness, this means that it is time to clean it up.

Check chimney for animals

In case you have not used your chimneys for a while, chances are that some small animals such as raccoons, squirrels, and birds have made their nests over there. This is especially true during the cold months. So, make sure that there is no animal in the way. In this regard, you can shine a flashlight up and see. In case it all looks clear, then you can take the steps to remove the animals.

Measure the flue of the chimney

In order to clean the chimney, you need to use proper tools. So, make sure that you have measured the sides of the chimney from the bottom. Then, use a ladder to climb up and measure it from the top. Now, determine the height of your chimney by using a rope.

Furthermore, you should also buy some chimney cleaning supplies that include chimney brushes, wire brushes, drop clothes, tall ladder, brooms, dust mask, and goggles.

Start the process

Once you have everything in place, you can start the cleaning process. Make sure that you are cleaning the entire area from inside out. Technically speaking, the creosote inside your chimneys should all be gone in case you want full safety. Even if you let a little bit stay, it can build up overtime.

Conclusion

Since you will have to buy a number of cleaning materials, and still there is no guarantee that you will clean the chimneys properly, we suggest you take help from proper chimney contractors Marlboro to do the job for you. This way, you will be able to save yourself cost of the cleaning materials, along with enough time and energy. Since this is a job that you should not be doing in the first place, make sure that you are relying on a professional for this.