Hire a Certified Chimney Sweep

Why Certified Chimney Sweeps Are Recommended Over a Handyman

Wise homeowners realize that proper cleaning of the chimney is not something that they can do on their own. However, some may try to save a few dollars by hiring a general handyman to do the job as opposed to a certified chimney sweep. Hiring a certified chimney sweep to care for the chimney is always worth it, regardless of what the additional cost may or may not end up being.

Cleaning a chimney is different than cleaning any other area of the home. It requires specialized training in order to do it properly. In addition, it requires specialized tools that the average handyman will not have readily available. A certified chimney sweep will have the proper training and will be able to get the job done in the manner that is safe for the home and family.

Knowledge Prevents More Costly Repairs

Not only will a general handyman not know how to get the job done the right way, but they may actually do more harm than good. When working with the chimney and fireplace, it is easy for the untrained person to make a mistake. These mistakes could compromise the safety of the entire system, putting the whole household at risk every time there is a fire in the fireplace. In the end, the homeowner will not only need a trained chimney sweep but also a chimney repair person to get into acceptable working condition.

In addition to putting the chimney and fireplace at risk, an untrained handyman may put their own health and safety on the line when cleaning a chimney. Many chimneys need to be cleaned because they have an accumulation of creosote. Someone who is not properly trained to deal with this chemical compound is at risk for internal illnesses as well as skin and eye irritations. Not only that, but it is not uncommon to find animals living in the chimney, a situation a handyman may not be equipped to handle.

There are also benefits to having a person who is experienced with chimneys and has seen a variety of different situations. Most importantly, they will know the early warning signs of many common chimney problems. While cleaning, they can give the homeowner an indication of any issues that they may expect in the future. This allows the homeowner to be proactive and take care of the problem before it becomes a serious situation.

Here’s How to Find a Certified Sweep

Some homeowners choose a handyman over a certified chimney sweep simply because they do not know where to find one. The Chimney Safety Institute of America has a useful tool on its website that finds certified chimney sweeps in any area. The organization can certainly be trusted because its provides training and certification for chimney and dryer vent professionals that is considered the industry standard.

It is important for all homeowners to have their chimneys cleaned each year by a professional, certified chimney sweep. A general handyman may be great for completing many tasks around the home, but chimney cleaning should be left to someone with the proper training. A handyman who does not frequently work with chimneys may actually do more damage than good to the chimney. In addition, their inexperience could put them at personal risk. In order to find a chimney sweep nearby, it is a good idea to consult with The Chimney Safety Institute of America.