Q&A for How to Clean Chimneys

Burning certain woods (ie. Manzanita) will reduce and clean creosote from your chimney.

Use a stiff brush to remove built up soot and tar deposits on the initial sweep. Then, if the stove flue has a liner (it should, to comply with building regulations and home insurance policies), use a soft brush for future twice-yearly cleaning.

You can use fireplace or stove cement; it comes in a caulk tube. Fill the gap and tool the material to blend in nice, and it will harden. (It may not color match, however.)

Inspect the cement blocks for cracks or damage, as water often seeps in through these. If you find cracks, fill them with high-temperature mortar to prevent water intrusion. Apply a waterproofing agent designed for chimneys, which allows the chimney to "breathe" while blocking moisture. Regularly check for leaks, especially after heavy rain or snow, as early detection can save a lot of trouble.

A chimney cap with side vents can deflect wind, preventing it from blowing directly down your chimney. Use a wind directional cap that pivots with the wind to block downdrafts. Ensure your chimney is free of obstructions like debris or nests. Experiment with damper positions, as partially closing it can sometimes help. You might also try slightly opening a window on the windward side to balance pressure and reduce downdrafts.

If creosote in your chimney is smouldering the day after a fire, it's a sign of a potential hazard. Creosote is highly flammable and when it smoulders, it can reignite or lead to a chimney fire. Here's what to do: Extinguish safely by not using water, as it can damage the chimney structure, but instead use a Class A fire extinguisher designed for wood and paper fires. Ventilate by opening windows to release harmful fumes. After extinguishing, immediately call a certified chimney sweep to safely clean the chimney and inspect for any damages or issues.

Yes, even with gas fireplaces, it's important to clean and inspect the chimney regularly. While gas is cleaner burning than wood and produces less soot and creosote, there are still reasons to maintain your chimney.

An acid wash is a cleaning process where a diluted acidic solution is applied to a surface to remove stains, buildup, or residue. It's commonly used on concrete, brick, stones, tiles, and in swimming pools to remove mineral deposits and scale. The solution often includes muriatic acid, phosphoric acid, or vinegar, depending on the application. The acid is diluted with water, applied, left to work for a short time, and then rinsed off thoroughly.

To clean your chimney, wear protective gear like gloves, a dust mask, and safety goggles. Gather tools including a chimney brush matching your chimney's size, extension rods, a flashlight, and a drop cloth for the hearth. Lay the drop cloth around the fireplace to catch soot, ensuring the fireplace is cold. Clean from the top down by accessing the chimney from the roof, attaching the brush to an extension rod, and scrubbing the sides. Inspect for damage as you clean, and if you find any, call a professional. Finally, clean up the fireplace area by removing soot and debris.