Soot stains aren’t uncommon in homes with fireplaces or wood burning stoves. Even gas fireplaces can produce soot because it is a byproduct of burning any type of fuel and isn’t restricted to only burning wood or paper. Soot is a black powdery or flaky substance that looks simple to clean up because when air hits it, it flies away with ease. Unfortunately it is not as easy to clean up as one would think. Anyone who has ever taken a damp cloth to wipe away soot has been sorely disappointed.
You may use specifically-formulated cleaners to remove soot or consult a professional cleaning company to perform the task for you. Some local companies specialize in the removal of soot stains and fire restoration services. Extreme soot problems should be handled by a professional fire restoration company, as they will remove affected carpeting and furniture, and repaint the walls.
Reduce Soot Indoors
There are several ways to reduce soot deposits inside your home. Any time a fireplace or other heat producing appliance produces soot, it should be looked at by a professional. We would be glad to inspect your fireplace, boiler, or wood burning stove to ensure that it is working properly. The chimney or flue should also be inspected to make sure the problem isn’t there. A blocked chimney or flue will allow smoke and soot to enter the home and create serious problems.
Candles and oil lamps are also known for producing soot. Always keep wicks trimmed to about one-quarter inch and use a snuffer or lid to extinguish the flame. A candle that is blown out will produce smoke and soot which may drift up to the ceiling or stain the walls over time. Burn quality candles that are made of soy or beeswax instead of paraffin wax. Wicks should be made from natural plant fibers instead of cloth.
How a Chimney Sweep Can Help
The professionally trained and CSIA certified chimney sweeps at Lou Curley’s Chimney Service understand the details of how soot is created and carried. We will troubleshoot your soot problem and formulate a solution to prevent future soot stains. We will thoroughly examine the fireplace or other soot-producing unit and the chimney or flue as well to discover where problem originates. We believe it’s much more important to find the root cause of the problem instead of putting a bandage on it.
We are located in Delaware County and provide expert chimney services to all homeowners and business owners in the area. We offer money-saving specials on our services each month. We’re currently offering $20 off of a chimney cleaning through the month of August. Ask us about our September savings offer when you call to schedule your chimney inspection or cleaning.