How to Brush a Chimney

Chimney Sweep

Burning wood in a stove or fireplace causes creosote buildup in the chimney. Creosote burns, and this means the more creosote accumulation you have in your chimney, the higher the possibility of the creosote catching fire and burning. The extremely high temperatures reached in a chimney fire can warp metal parts and crack tile liners. Prevent chimney fires by brushing out the accumulated creosote once or twice a year. Follow the steps below to learn how to do it.

Things You'll Need

• Flashlight
• Drop cloth
• Ladder
• Goggles
• Dust mask
• Gloves
• Chimney brush
• Wet/Dry vacuum

Instructions

1. Remove the pins that hold the damper plate in the bottom of the chimney and take the plate out.

2. Seal the fireplace opening with a drop cloth. Open the outside chimney cleanout if you have one.

3. Climb up to the top of the chimney with your brush and flashlight.

4. Remove the chimney cap and insert the brush into the chimney. Move the brush up and down to scrape off the accumulated creosote. Use your flashlight to check your work and to look for any cracks or damage in the flue. If you do find damage, have it repaired before using the fireplace again.

5. Go back inside the house and remove the cloth from the chimney opening. Sweep up the soot and creosote and reach inside the chimney with your wet/dry vac to vacuum the soot off the smoke shelf which is located at the bottom of the chimney.

Tips & Warnings

• Burning dry wood only will drastically reduce the amount of creosote buildup in your chimney.

• Have a helper on the ground keep watch while you are working on the roof.

Resources

• Cleaning Stovepipes and Chimneys