FAQs

How often does my chimney need to be cleaned?

The National Fire Protection Association standard states that “chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances. Cleaning maintenance, and repairs shall be done if necessary.” Basically what this says is that regular cleaning based on how often your chimney is used is of vital importance, while an annual inspection of your chimney is required. In conjunction with the NFPA standard, the Chimney Safety Institute of America also recommends that “open masonry fireplaces should be swept at 1/8″ of sooty buildup, and sooner if there is any glaze present in the system.  This is considered to be enough fuel buildup to cause a chimney fire capable of damaging the chimney or spreading to the home. Factory-built fireplaces should be swept when any appreciable buildup occurs. The logic is that the deposit is quite acidic and can shorten the life of the fireplace.” Be sure to have an experienced chimney sweep from Des Moines Chimney Sweep regularly maintain your fireplace to avoid any issues.

Are there any preventive measures I can take to avoid expensive chimney repairs?

Absolutely. With Des Moines Chimney Sweep you can choose from the largest selection of services in Central Iowa that can help reduce the risk of future damage. We provide chimney sweeping and firebox repair to prevent fires, waterproofing with sealants for masonry surfaces to protect from finicky Iowa weather, chimney caps as a means to keep rainwater and debris out of the chimney liner or flue, and many other services designed with prolonging your chimney’s life in mind.

How often should I have my dryer vent cleaned?

Des Moines Chimney Sweep as a general rule recommends our customers have our professionals perform dryer vent cleaning at least once a year. However, for our customers with pets and large families that do one or more loads of laundry a day we suggest a dryer vent cleaning every six months due to the fact that build-up occurs the more frequently a dryer is used.

Is Des Moines Chimney Sweep insured?

Des Moines Chimney Sweep is fully-insured and can show verification upon request.

My fireplace smells bad, especially during the summer. Is there anything I can do to fix the issue?

A natural byproduct of burning wood is creosote, which can build up in your chimney and give off an unpleasant odor. The smell usually worsens in the summer when the humidity increases and your air conditioner is in use. Your annual chimney sweeping service includes removing the creosote deposits, as well as any other build-up that occurs over time. Also, if there are pressure problems within the home itself air can be pulled back down through the chimney and dispersed back into the living space. A tight-sealing, top mounted damper can help reduce the excess air flow coming down the chimney as well.

How do I choose a chimney sweep?

Home owners should be aware that there is only one legitimate national certification program for the chimney service industry and that is the CSIA program. Those who have earned the Chimney Safety Institute of America certified chimney sweep credential have demonstrated their commitment to their industry, to fire prevention, and to the clientele they serve.

Will it be expensive to have a CSIA certified chimney sweep inspect and clean my chimney?

Des Moines Chimney Sweep provides the highest quality service at affordable, competitive prices. Contact us today to find out just how reasonable our rates are.