Cleaning
Chimney Cleaning & Sweeping
A clean chimney vents better, smells better, and reduces the buildup that can feed a chimney fire. We sweep the flue and firebox, clear soot and creosote, and leave the work area clean.
What chimney cleaning removes
Every fire leaves something behind. Wood fires produce creosote, a tar-like residue that hardens in layers inside the flue. Even gas and occasional-use fireplaces collect soot, debris, and sometimes nesting material. Over time these deposits narrow the flue, hold odors, and — in the case of creosote — become combustible.
How we clean
We protect the room, then sweep the accessible flue, smoke chamber, and firebox using rods and brushes sized to your system, controlling dust as we go. Cleaning is often paired with an inspection so you know not just that the system is clean, but what condition it is in.
Signs it may be time for a sweep
- A strong, smoky, or campfire-like odor from the fireplace
- Black, flaky, or shiny buildup visible inside the flue
- Poor draft or smoke drifting back into the room
- Debris or animal nesting material falling into the firebox
- A full burning season since the last cleaning
What our service covers
- Wood-burning fireplace and stove sweeping
- Soot and creosote removal from the flue
- Firebox and smoke chamber cleaning
- Debris and obstruction clearing
- Cleanup of the work area when finished
Frequently asked questions
How often should a chimney be cleaned?
Cleaning is based on buildup and use, not a fixed calendar. The common baseline is an annual inspection, with sweeping done whenever deposits or conditions call for it.
Is cleaning the same as an inspection?
No. Cleaning removes deposits; an inspection evaluates the condition of the system. They are related and often done together, but they are not the same service.
Related services
Talk to a Colorado chimney family
Call or request service and we'll help you figure out the right next step for your chimney or fireplace.