Chimney cleaning hourly rates
Many fireplace and chimney sweeps charge flat rates, but some may charge an hourly rate. The average cost of hiring a chimney repair and cleaning specialist ranges from $125 per hour. To find out how much it will cost to get a cleaning, contact chimney sweepers near you.
Cost factors
The cost of cleaning your chimney depends on several factors. In some cases, the type of fireplace you have and the height (or position) of the chimney may influence prices. A chimney sweep may be more expensive if it’s difficult to access the chimney cap or other components to remove creosote. The cost may also increase if there was a chimney fire, as there will probably be excess soot that needs to be removed.
The cost of a chimney sweep may also be affected by the chimney inspection. A thorough video inspection may be required to diagnose specific problems with the flue or other areas that have to be cleaned.
Why chimney cleaning and inspections are important
Hiring a chimney sweep can help ensure the safety of you and your household. When wood burns in your fireplace, substances get released into your chimney, stick to its inner walls and leave behind a residue called creosote. Creosote is combustible and could cause a chimney fire, according to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). A dirty chimney with excessive soot causes blockages. As a result, toxic fumes can drift back into your home. A dirty fireplace can also force soot into your home, damaging drapes, couches, clothing and more. Additionally, inhaling soot can be bad for your health because it may contain a number of carcinogens, according to the National Cancer Institute. How often should you have your chimney swept and inspected?
While individual situations vary, you should get a chimney inspection at least once a year and get it swept as necessary. The first step in getting your chimney cleaned is a proper inspection by a pro who will check the chimney’s structural integrity, liner, smoke chamber, flue, firebox and more. During this inspection, they may discover excess soot and creosote, animal nests and debris in the flue and other potentially crucial issues.
Many homeowners may choose to give their chimney a good clean before they sell or show their home to potential buyers. This may help reduce foul smells that can come from creosote deposits, which could disrupt an otherwise pleasant house showing. Get free estimates from top-rated fireplace and chimney specialists.
How to hire a chimney sweep
It’s important to hire the right chimney sweep who charges a fair price. Here are some things to keep in mind when you’re searching for cleaning services near you: Ask the pro questions
A professional chimney sweep should be prepared to answer reasonable questions about the scope of work, the costs and benefits of cleaning your chimney. Here are some questions you should ask a pro you’re considering hiring:
How much will it cost and how do you set your prices?
Can you perform a Level 1 inspection, Level 2 inspection and/or Level 3 inspection?
Do you provide free estimates?
Does the price include an inspection and chimney sweep?
How many years of experience do you have?
Do I need more or less cleaning, depending on the type of fuel I burn in the firebox, such as with a gas fireplace or fireplace insert?
How long will it take to complete the job?
Get free estimates
Free cost estimates can help you snag a great deal on chimney sweeping services. Keep in mind that there may be an additional chimney inspection cost or the pro may bundle an inspection and sweep. To get accurate price quotes, contact at least three or more chimney sweepers. And let the pros know the following details: The height from the roof to the top of the chimney cap
How high your roof is from the ground
The pitch of your roof where the chimney is located
The material your chimney is made out of
How long it’s been since you last had your chimney cleaned and inspected
Any issues you have with odd smells, fires, signs of a damaged flue liner or suspected carbon monoxide infiltration
But remember that the pro who offers the lowest possible prices isn’t necessarily the best one for the job.