A little prep before your Westampton Township chimney sweep arrives keeps your appointment on schedule and helps our team spot issues faster. Here’s exactly what to do—and what to leave to the pros.
Clear the area around your fireplace and chimney
Before your appointment, move furniture, rugs, and decor at least 6 feet from the fireplace and hearth. Remove any wall hangings or decorations within 3 feet of the chimney opening. This gives our technicians safe access and protects your belongings from soot or debris. If you have a gas fireplace, turn off the pilot light and ensure the gas valve is shut. For wood-burning units, remove any remaining logs or kindling from the firebox. If you’re unsure about gas lines or shut-off valves, leave it to the pros—Eds & Sons Chimney can handle it safely.
Check for obvious obstructions or damage
Take a quick look at your chimney cap and flue from the ground using binoculars. Look for missing, bent, or damaged caps, and clear any visible debris like leaves or bird nests. Inside, shine a flashlight up the chimney flue to check for large obstructions or signs of animal activity. If you see a significant blockage or damage, do not attempt to remove it yourself—call Eds & Sons Chimney immediately. Small debris like loose soot can be vacuumed up safely, but anything more requires professional tools and training.
Gather your records and recent notes
Locate your chimney service history, warranty documents, and any recent inspection reports. Jot down any issues you’ve noticed, like smoke backing up, strange odors, or difficulty starting a fire. These details help our technicians diagnose problems faster and ensure your appointment covers all your concerns. If you’ve had recent storms or high winds in Westampton Township, note the date—these events can dislodge chimney liners or damage masonry. Bring these notes to your appointment or share them when you schedule your visit.
Prepare your pets and family for the visit
Chimney sweeps can be noisy and disruptive, so plan to keep pets in a quiet room or with a neighbor during the appointment. If you have small children, arrange for them to be out of the house or supervised in another area. Our technicians work carefully, but soot and tools can be hazards in a busy household. After the sweep, you may notice a faint campfire smell—this is normal and fades within a day. If anyone in your home has allergies or respiratory sensitivities, keep windows open for ventilation during and after the visit.
Know the warning signs that mean stop and call a pro
If you see crumbling mortar, large cracks in the chimney crown, or bricks falling into the firebox, do not wait for your appointment—call Eds & Sons Chimney right away. Other red flags include a strong, oily odor from the fireplace, white or chalky stains on the exterior masonry (a sign of water damage), or smoke entering your home instead of drafting properly. These issues can indicate structural failure, a blocked flue, or a failing liner—all of which require immediate professional attention. Never attempt to repair these problems yourself; improper fixes can void warranties or create dangerous conditions.
What to never DIY and why
Avoid climbing onto your roof to inspect or clean the chimney—Westampton Township roofs can be steep and slippery, even in good weather. Never use power tools, wire brushes, or chemical cleaners on your chimney; these can damage flue tiles, liners, or masonry and may release harmful fumes. Do not attempt to remove creosote buildup yourself—this sticky, tar-like substance is highly flammable and requires specialized tools and training to handle safely. Also, skip DIY chimney cap installations or masonry repairs; improper installations can lead to water damage, animal entry, or structural failure. Leave these tasks to licensed professionals like Eds & Sons Chimney.
When to call Eds & Sons Chimney
If you notice persistent draft issues, unexplained noises from the chimney, or signs of water leaks after heavy Westampton Township rains, it’s time to call the pros. Our team can perform a Level I inspection to check for hidden damage, cracked flue liners, or blockages that aren’t visible from the ground. We also handle emergency repairs for storm damage, animal intrusions, or carbon monoxide leaks—all of which pose serious safety risks. Don’t gamble with your family’s safety or your home’s value. Contact us today to schedule a prompt, thorough inspection or repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I cover my furniture if my chimney appointment is in winter?
Yes—even in Westampton Township winters, soot and dust can spread. Cover nearby furniture, carpets, and electronics with old sheets or plastic. Focus on items within 6 feet of the fireplace and hearth. If you have a gas fireplace, turn off the pilot light to prevent soot buildup. This small step saves cleanup time and protects your belongings from the minor mess of a professional sweep.
Is it worth cleaning my chimney in Westampton Township if I rarely use it?
Absolutely. Even unused chimneys in Westampton Township can develop creosote buildup from past use, animal nests, or moisture damage. Westampton’s humid summers and cold winters accelerate masonry deterioration and liner corrosion. A Level I inspection every year ensures your chimney is safe, even if you haven’t lit a fire in months. Prevention is cheaper than emergency repairs.
Do I really need a chimney inspection if my fireplace looks fine from the inside?
Yes—most hidden chimney damage in Westampton Township homes isn’t visible from the firebox. Cracked flue liners, deteriorating mortar, or partial blockages can’t be seen without a professional inspection. After a storm or high winds in Westampton Township, even a well-maintained chimney may shift or crack. A Level I inspection takes less than an hour and catches problems before they become costly emergencies.