How to sweep a chimney top to bottom?

29th February 2020


	How to sweep a chimney top to bottom


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			Top to bottom method
			Step 1 – Remove cowl from chimney Some chimneys and flues have a chimney cowl fitted, which are devices designed to help prevent wind blowing the smoke back down into the room below. They also have a secondary purpose of preventing birds or other animals from making nests in the chimney.

			If your chimney has a cowl fitted it should be removed to ensure the whole of the chimney length is swept clean. Most cowls simply lift off or have a couple of bolts to loosen before removal.

			Step 2 – Measure your chimney Measuring your chimney will allow you to choose the correct sized brush needed to clean it. It is important to get an idea of what your chimney is like because there are many chimney brushes available, including round, square or rectangular, in a variety of sizes from 50mm to around 300mm (2″ to 12″).

			Step 3 – Inspect chimney If it has been some time since the last time you used your chimney, or if you have just moved in to the house, check for animals before you begin cleaning. Birds and squirrels have been known to make their homes in chimneys, so shine a bright torch down the chimney, and if you find an animal, take steps to have it removed.

			Whilst inspecting the chimney for animals it is also a good idea to check to see how much creosote/tar has built up within the chimney. This will determine the type of brush that you will need and the amount of brushing required.

			This 200mm (8″) chimney has been reduced in places to 50mm (2″) due to creosote buildup. When a chimney is blocked to this extent it will require the use of specialist tools and should be done by a professional chimney sweep.

			Step 4 – Prepare room Lay a tarpaulin or dust sheet over the hearth and spread it into the room to protect the carpet. Take another sheet or tarpaulin and tape it around the fireplace to prevent any soot from entering the room. Shop for Dust Sheets & Dust Covers

			Step 5 – Choose right brush Always ensure you choose the correct brush for the job. The brush should be 15mm (0.5″) wider than the chimney. (Please see, How to choose the correct chimney rod brush.)

			Step 6 – Begin sweeping down chimney Push and pull the brush up and down the chimney vigorously one metre at a time. If the chimney is round, ensure you twist the rods in a clockwise direction as you push and pull the rods down the chimney.

			As the brush moves down the chimney, continue to add rods until you have been able to brush down the entire length of the chimney. Using a bright torch, reinspect the chimney ensuring there are no creosote deposits left within it.

			Step 7 – Refit cowl to chimney Refit the cowl to the chimney, tightening any bolts that were loosened in order to remove it.

			Step 8 – Remove sheet or tarpaulin from fireplace Carefully remove the sheeting or tarpaulin taped across the front of the fireplace.

			Step 9 – Dislodged creosote and soot The soot and creosote from the chimney should have collected at the bottom of the fireplace

			Step 10 – Finish job Use a brush and dustpan to clean up the debris from the fireplace. Finally, remove the dust sheets and vacuum around the fireplace.