When to Hire a Chimney Sweep

An Oregon-based entrepreneur, John Oscar Branch established three successful companies in the Greater Portland Area. These included John Oscar Branch Chimney Sweep and Oregon Chimney Repair and Cleaning, two companies providing chimney maintenance services.

Homeowners and businesses who maintain fireplaces with chimneys must have the chimneys swept regularly to keep them operating safely and efficiently. A chimney sweep provides inspections and, when necessary, removes built-up creosote, blockages, and soot from the chimney's liner, smoke chamber, damper, and firebox. The potential for a chimney to catch fire increases as more and more creosote builds up.

To prevent a chimney fire, homeowners and businesses should hire a chimney sweep to inspect the chimney at least once a year, according to the National Fire Protection Association's Standard 211. This is the national safety standard in the United States. Adhering to this standard helps a home or business owner to ensure a chimney is sound, maintains the correct clearances, and is free of deposits. If the chimney sweep spots any issues, he or she can recommend and provide repairs, maintenance, and cleaning to keep the chimney in safe working condition.