A roaring fireplace is one of the most comforting and enduring images associated with the winter months. Before you start building a fire of your own, Charlie’s Chimney Sweeps & Masonry in New Richmond, OH, recommends scheduling an appointment with a chimney sweep. Whether you use gas logs or a wood stove, regular cleanings and inspections will keep your system clear of hazardous buildup, which will keep your home cozy and safe. Since 1996, Charlie’s Chimney Sweeps & Masonry has been serving the Greater Cincinnati area, installing and maintaining indoor fireplace systems as well as outdoor fire pits and barbecues. The company holds an A+ accreditation from the Better Business Bureau and is a proud member of Sibcy Cline Home Services.

You may be wondering what a chimney sweep actually does — after all, many people are familiar with chimney sweeps from stories that are set in the past. To this day, the chimney sweep’s job is an important one, removing debris such as soot and creosote from the fireplace system. This system is made up of several parts — the firebox, the chimney liner, the smoke chamber, and the damper. All of these parts must be clean in order to work properly. Debris left in a chimney can reignite, resulting in a chimney fire. Not only is such a fire very dangerous, but repairing the damage can be quite costly.

Even if you do not use your fireplace often, Charlie’s Chimney Sweeps & Masonry suggests having your chimney inspected and cleaned annually. During the inspection, your chimney will be checked for structural integrity, cleanliness, ventilation ability, and animal nesting activity. Small animals such as birds and squirrels have been known to build nests in warm places that are easily accessible from a home’s exterior, and the materials commonly used to build nests are often flammable.

Inspections and cleanings can be performed any time of the year, but are typically scheduled in the late summer or early fall, well before the temperature drops. In addition to scheduled maintenance visits, Charlie’s Chimney Sweeps & Masonry also offers 24-hour emergency service.

To learn more about maintaining your chimney or installing a new fireplace, call Charlie’s Chimney Sweeps & Masonry at (513) 553-0229. You can also visit the company online to learn more about their full range of products and services.