Chimney Sweeping in Tarzana and the San Fernando Valley
Creosote is the tar-like residue wood smoke leaves on the inside of a flue. It builds up in layers, narrows the flue and, given enough heat, can ignite. A sweep removes it before it becomes a problem.
We cover the furniture and floor, set up a sealed vacuum at the firebox, then brush the flue from top to bottom. You get before-and-after photos, and if we see anything that needs attention we point it out on the spot.
When to book
- You use the fireplace regularly and it has been a year since the last sweep
- A strong, smoky smell, especially on warm or humid days
- Black flakes or crumbs falling into the firebox
- Smoke drifting into the room instead of up the flue
- Fires that are hard to start or keep going
- Birds, nests or debris in the chimney
What's included
- Drop cloths and floor protection
- Sealed HEPA vacuum at the firebox
- Rotary or wire brushing of the full flue
- Smoke shelf and smoke chamber cleaning
- Damper check and cleaning
- Before-and-after photos
Common questions
How often should a chimney be swept?
For a wood-burning fireplace used through the season, once a year is the usual guideline. If you burn a lot, or burn softwood, it may need it sooner. Gas fireplaces need less but should still be checked yearly.
Is it messy?
It shouldn't be. We seal the firebox opening, run a vacuum the whole time and lay drop cloths from the door to the hearth.
How long does it take?
Most single-flue sweeps take about an hour to an hour and a half.
