Chimneys play an integral role of getting rid of harmful gases. Modern ones have ability to convert harmful gases into harmless forms before releasing them to the atmosphere. When left unattended for a longtime, chimneys tend to accumulate a lot of creosote and soot. This substance can cause serious fires due to their high flammable nature. Since chimneys are expensive and important home investment, carrying out a thorough
chimney cleaning Windsor Locks CT procedure is a smart decision. A properly maintained smokestack has a high performance and prevents buildup of unsafe gases.
Chimneys require to be cleaned once or twice a year. However, the frequency of cleaning should be determined by the frequency of using the fireplace. Using a plastic knife or pencil scrape off some creosote that might have accumulated on the inner part of the smokestack. In case the soot is 1/8 thicker, you should begin to plan for cleaning. The most appropriate time for carrying out the washing process is during the dry or warm season. Otherwise, you might end up causing fire if you light up the fireplace for the first time during the winter.
The process of washing becomes simple and faster when you are using tools of suitable length. Do not embark on the purchase process if you do not have the measurements of height, size, shape, and length of the stack. Begin by taking the measurements of sides of bottom part proceeding to the fireplace. A ladder will be needed during the process of measuring the top part. The stack height will determine the length of brush that you will acquire.
You should shop for the scrubbing supplies a few days before the actual day of cleaning. Do not forget to use the measurement record to acquire an appropriate wire brush. You can buy either extension pipes or the rope pulley units. Other vital supplies to buy are dustpans, brooms, a long ladder, and strong wire brushes. To eliminate chances of inhaling dusts during the scrubbing process, wear a dust mask. Gloves and goggles are other protective clothing you must wear.
Prepare your home for the washing. Cover the furniture, electronic, and other expensive equipment with sheets or tarps. Roll back all the expensive rugs to avoid staining them with soot. Detach the damper from the smokestack flue. Utilize the small wire brush to scrub it off and remove all the soot and debris.
Assess your roof and confirm if it can hold the weight of the ladder. Place the brushes and other supplies in the satchel and climb up the ladder. Place them at strategic position where you can easily access them to avoid climbing up and down. If your roof is slanted or weak, you should clean the smokestack from the bottom part.
Fix the first extension pipe into the brush and utilize the brush to get rid of soot, debris, and other unwanted stuffs. Scrub every corner of stack in an up and down fashion. Keep connecting an extra pipe into the brush until you have cleaned every part.
Alternatively, you can hire a professional to carry out the cleaning procedure on your behalf. The cleaner must have a reputation of offering exceptional services. Visit his or her website and check the nature of comments and complaints posted by former clients.