Indianapolis Chimney Sweep

Get Swept Up

Whether your home’s chimney is brand new or has seen many winters, it is essential that you have it regularly inspected and cleaned by a professional chimney sweep. Here’s why.

Over time, residue from smoke that rises through your chimney – including creosote and other particulates – builds up on the surface of the internal flue. This residue can lead to blockages and may even ignite, causing a dangerous chimney fire. Build-up of creosote and soot also reduces the draft needed by a wood stove, pellet stove or fireplace which may cause smoke to come out the opening or door.

Every Bone Dry Roofing chimney sweep is professionally trained to thoroughly and safely remove debris and creosote, allowing your chimney to do its job properly and safely. Our rotary nylon brushes loosen built-up debris while our industrial-strength vacuums collect the dust and creosote before it ever has a chance to get into your home. Your chimney gets scrubbed while your home remains pristine!

National Fire Protection Association standards recommend that chimneys be inspected and cleaned at least once per year for “soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances,” and that cleaning, maintenance and any necessary repairs should be done at that time.

Need a chimney sweep? We’re here to help!

Since a damaged, deteriorating, or blocked chimney can cause chimney fires or carbon monoxide poisoning, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends having a chimney cleaning and inspection performed each year.

Our contractors are fully trained and certified to provide safe and effective chimney sweeping. Don’t take a chance with your chimney. Contact Bone Dry Roofing today to schedule a chimney inspection by a qualified chimney sweep.

Schedule a Chimney Sweep or Chimney Inspection

Chimney Sweep FAQ

Why is a routine chimney sweep & maintenance important?

Every time you burn a fire in your fireplace, combustible by-products are deposited in the chimney flue in the form of creosote and soot. Creosote is a black, tar-like residue that is extremely flammable and soot is the minuscule, powder-like substance which colors smoke and consists chiefly of carbon. Hot embers from your wood burning fire may come in contact with these flammable deposits and potentially start a dangerous chimney fire.

The buildup of creosote and soot can also cause a dangerous blockage that not only interferes with the performance and efficiency of your fireplace but lead to carbon monoxide backing up in your living area.

How often should I have my chimney cleaned or inspected?

It is recommended to have your chimney swept annually, at minimum, regardless of use. National Fire Protection Association standards recommend that chimneys be inspected and cleaned at least once per year for “soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances,” and that cleaning, maintenance and any necessary repairs should be done at that time. This is to keep your family safe.

How long does a chimney sweep take?

A typical chimney sweep appointment with Bone Dry will take 1 to 2 hours to complete.

What Should I Expect During My Chimney Sweep?

1. Our team will arrive and set up our equipment, including floor protection and a vacuum for dust control, and begin to sweep the flues and smoke chamber of your chimney system. 
2. We will then scan the flue system and smoke chamber with a specialized camera to give you an in depth look at the interior of your chimney. The chimney scan looks for fire hazards, water intrusion, ventilation issues, and any fire damage that may be present. 
3. To finish the sweep, we will thoroughly clean up and remove our equipment. Your certified chimney sweep technician will spend 15-30 minutes creating a detailed inspection report to review with you. We’ll spend time explaining our findings and any repairs or additional recommendations, and answer any questions you have.

Will There Be debris & dirt in my home during or following a chimney sweep?

By protecting the area during a chimney sweep and using a vacuum, we do the best we can to reduce the dust from moving around your home, but it is inevitable some will be missed. We recommend vacuuming and dusting as needed once your chimney sweep is complete. 

Should I have my chimney inspected, even if I don’t use my fireplace?

Yes, you never know what is going on with your fireplace. Water damage could occur, animal nests, and other items could be present that need to be addressed. Blockages or leaks in your chimney can create unsafe conditions, including fire hazards.

Does my chimney need to be cleaned if I have a gas insert?

If you have a gas appliance, it is good to have the unit serviced and creosote cleaned off the logs.

What is creosote?

When you burn wood or fossil fuels, your goal is to burn them as completely as possible. However, if the airflow to your fire isn’t adequate, it essentially starves the fire – leading to incomplete combustion. When the oils in the wood aren’t completely burned, they off-gas as volatiles and travel up through the smoke. The smoke cools as it rises, and ultimately condenses with water and other chemicals on the interior of your chimney and flue. The black, tar-like residue left behind is called creosote. Build up of creosote and soot will be removed during your chimney sweep, allowing your chimney to do its job properly and safely. 

When is the best time to have my chimney inspected?

Your chimney can be swept any time of year, however we recommend summertime. The best time to have your chimney swept is during the summer months because summer is the slow season for chimney sweeping. Planning ahead and having your chimney sweep before fall and the busy season puts you ahead of the curve.

Schedule your annual chimney sweep

In addition to reducing your risk of a chimney fire and improving your home’s air quality, regular chimney cleanings and inspections can also help prevent expensive damage, saving you money and hassle in the long run.

Schedule a Chimney Sweep