Yes! Soot, tar, birds nests and even dust or cobwebs can block a chimney. Obstructions prevent the free passage of dangerous combustion gasses, hazardous smoke or fumes (Carbon Monoxide) from exiting the building and possibly allowing spillage back into the room. Also, the removal of any blockages will help to eliminate the chance of a chimney fire and improve stove efficiency.

The frequency will depend on a number of factors including: appliance used, type of fuel, frequency of use, moisture content of wood, type of chimney etc. Smokeless fuel: At least once a year. Wood: Quarterly when in use. Bituminous Coal: Quarterly when in use. Oil: Once a year. Gas: Once a year.

A good time to have your chimney swept is early autumn, prior to the winter burning season. This ensures the chimney flue has not been blocked by bird’s nests for example. Or at the end of the burning season (Spring Clean) to prevent soot deposits from resting and corroding the flue/chimney during the dormant period.

Not in the slightest! Your cream carpet can be entrusted to me. Clean dust sheets are provided and I have been fully trained in the prevention of dust/soot escaping during the sweep. I am extremely conscienctious about leaving no trace.

Please ensure that the stove is cold with no hot embers. The immediate area surrounding the stove needs to be free from any ornaments/coal shutes etc. And finally, please remove any kindling or decorative logs etc from inside the stove to allow me clear access.

Yes, unless you have evidence of when the chimney was last swept from the previous owners.

Usually around 45 minutes to an hour. This sometimes changes due to e.g. an extra build up of soot/tar in a heavily used chimney, or how much I am chatting with you!

Most of Essex and Suffolk, but please feel free to ask.