Getting the chimney cleaned and inspected is a must-do for people who own fireplaces. Long Island Roofing and Chimney offers chimney sweeping in Suffolk County because it is something that should be done at least once a year in order to stay safe and prevent any chimney fires from starting. However, not everyone can afford to hire professional chimney services, so they opt to do the job on their own. If homeowners want to clean their chimney on their own, they have to be careful and keenly follow these tips.
First of all, residents should let the fireplace and chimney cool off. Cleaning both of these right after using it can lead to a fire. It is best to wait for at least a whole day in order to let the debris fully settle. This can make the job safer. It is also advised to clean the surroundings first. Debris and other unburnt substances can get into the nearby furniture and rugs, so clearing them away can ensure that they do not get dirty. Covering the surrounding area with a sheet is also a great idea to minimize the dirty places.
A chimney brush is also a worthwhile investment for those who want to DIY clean their chimneys. It can be used to clean the hard to get places and prevent creosote from building up. Creosote is a toxic substance that is made from unburned wood particles, smoke, and other debris mixed with water vapor. It is important to get this cleaned up because not doing so can result in health problems and unwanted fires. Lastly, wearing protective glasses can keep the eyes from getting any toxic materials when cleaning the chimney.
To learn more about safely cleaning the chimney, visit this infographic by Long Island Roofing and Chimney, home of the best roofing contractors in Suffolk County, NY.
