Doing research about a cleaning service for your home is a good rule of thumb to make sure you get what you pay for. Chimney sweeps will help improve the health and safety of your home, but only if you hire a professional company. There are some aspects that you should look for in a chimney sweep company and some questions to ask before you let them into your home. Any home cleaning company will treat your home with respect and provide great customer service.
Sierra Vista Maintenance is proud to be a home cleaning and chimney sweep company. We look forward to improving your fireplace, chimney, and all the parts that help to keep soot and smoke out of your home.
1- Inspection Of Multiple Parts Of The Chimney
A thorough chimney cleaning will involve inspecting all the parts, and cleaning the entire chimney and around your fireplace as well. A professional chimney sweep company will work to clean your chimney base, chimney flue, liner, cap, chase covers, flashing, fireplace damper, and more. If a chimney sweep does not clean all of these parts or isn’t aware of what these parts are, it might be in your best interest to choose a different company.
2- What Certifications Does The Cleaner Have
Chimney professionals will often have certifications or licensing that sets them as legitimate above telemarking companies or others. If you are wanting to know whether a chimney sweep company is worth hiring look to see what certifications they have or what groups they are a part of. CSIA (Chimney Safety Institute of America), NFI (National Fireplace Institute), or F.I.R.E (Fire Investigation Research and Education) are all good resources to look for.
3- Don’t Hire One That Shows Up Uninvited
Companies that want to gain money quickly will travel door to door and try to promote their services. These companies often don’t have the tools or insurance to protect them and could cause expensive damage to your home. Those that show up uninvited are often part of a scam and will cheat unsuspecting homeowners out of their money. They may offer services, but at a ridiculously high price, or not offer the quality that your chimney deserves. If a chimney sweep company shows up to your home or business uninvited, it is a good rule of thumb to steer clear.
4- The Use Of Professional Equipment
Another key sign of a good chimney sweep company is the use of professional equipment. If a company shows up with no equipment, they may not be the best party to be working on your home. Equipment will help keep your home safe and healthy and will also protect the technician. Some equipment may include replacement caps, chimney brushes, a camera to look down in your chimney, tarps or other protective layering, and regular tools like wrenches or pliers.
5- Know What Prices Are Fair
Chimneys that have gone years without service may be more pricey to service. Quality chimney services can range from $70 to over $200 depending on the area you live in and where your chimney is located. Talking to the company you hire about pricing will eliminate the possibility of surprises and help you to know exactly what you are paying for.
Chimney sweep companies can offer inspections and cleanings and charge separately for them. When you hire a company, ask what services you are getting and the total cost for the services. Different companies will offer different pricing, so ask around and do some research on what quality company fits your budget.
Chimney Sweeps With Sierra Vista Maintenance
Our company has been in business for many years, but have recently expanded our chimney cleaning services to help more homes and businesses in the Sacramento area. Keeping your chimney clean and serviced will help protect your home from fire damage, smoke and soot smell, and unwanted critters in your home.
During the colder months, cleaning your chimney may not be at the forefront of your mind, but spring cleaning is a great time to ensure that your home is free of excess soot and dirt build-up.
Sierra Vista Maintenance offers multiple cleaning services to help get your space ready for spring. Dryer vent cleaning, window cleaning, roof inspection, pressure washing, and other commercial services are just some of what we offer to our clients. Learn more about what we offer on our services page.