The short answer to that question is yes. If you are one of those people who realize the value of regular chimney maintenance, you are among an elite group. Some homeowners ignore this home feature until it needs a lot of repairs. What you should always keep in mind is that chimney sweeping requires specific training and tools. This is why it does not count as the typical do it yourself project.
A constant danger out there to homeowners is the presence of chimney sweeps with little or no training. They take advantage of the fact that some homeowners lack knowledge of chimney maintenance, and that they don’t know which questions to ask. Don’t leave your chimney work to inexperience technicians.
Anyone can buy cleaning materials and put a chimney sweep sticker on their truck or t-shirt and call themselves a chimney sweep. The ability to claim the title itself does not require specialized training. The ability to provide a specific service and do it correctly on the other hand, does.
What You Should Know
Professional chimney sweeps should be certified by the Chimney Sweep Institute of America (CSIA). This is the standard for the industry, and when you hire a certified sweep, you know you can expect quality work. The training covers areas such as chimney repair and sweeping, and the maintenance and repair of stoves and fireplaces. Homeowners should be aware that in some chimney sweep companies, some of the employees may lack certification even if the boss has it.
Important Things to Verify
Aside from ensuring that a chimney sweep has CSIA certification, there are other important issues you should be aware of when looking to hire a chimney sweep. For example, does the company have insurance coverage? Chimney sweeping can sometimes be risky, so the company should be covered in the event of an accident. Insurance will also protect you if there is damage to your property.
Chimney sweeps who take the job seriously join professional associations and make sure to keep up to date with the latest technologies. This helps them to keep abreast of changes in the industry so they can continue to deliver the best work to their clients. This will also give you, the homeowner added peace of mind.
Any chimney sweep who is offering services should have all the right tools for the job. The homeowner should not be forced to provide or buy anything. Be wary of chimney sweeps who cold call you looking for business. Professionals in the field do not need to resort to this practice. Call Lou Curley if you want to see what a qualified and professional chimney sweep can do for your home.