Masonry repair
Repointing, tuckpointing and brick replacement. We photograph what we found before any work is agreed.
Chimney sweeping
Thorough cleaning for a safer, more efficient fireplace. Removes creosote, the leading cause of chimney fires — once a year for a chimney in regular use.
How often does a chimney need sweeping?
Once a year for a chimney in regular use, and always before the first fire of the season. A chimney burning unseasoned wood, or one used daily through winter, may need it more often.
What that means
Creosote is what is left behind when wood smoke cools on the way up the flue. It builds in layers, and past a certain thickness it will burn — hot enough to crack a liner and set fire to the structure around it.
Sweeping removes it. We sheet the hearth, work from inside where we can, and leave the room as we found it.
You get a written note of the flue's condition afterwards whether or not anything needs doing.
Signs you need this
- You have not had it swept in over a year
- The fire is harder to get going than it used to be
- Smoke comes back into the room
- There is a tarry smell when the fire is not lit
If any of those sound familiar, ring us — it costs nothing to ask, and most of these are cheaper to deal with early.
Other things we do
Waterproofing
Protect your chimney from water damage and deterioration. A breathable repellent on sound brick, after any repairs, so weather stays on the outside.
Crown and cap repair
New crowns and caps built to last. The crown throws water clear of the brick; the cap keeps rain, leaves and animals out of the flue.
Chimney liners
Stainless steel liners for safety and efficiency. Relining a damaged or unlined flue so combustion gases stay inside the chimney where they belong.
Inspections
Level 1, 2 and 3 inspections to ensure your chimney is safe and up to code, with a written report. Level 2 is what a house sale or an insurance claim usually needs.
Book chimney sweeping
Tell us what you need and we will ring you back to confirm a time.