Trusted Chimney Sweep, Air Duct & Dryer Vent Cleaning in Sandbach

Even once a chimney has been swept, there is no way a chimney sweep can tell if the flue integrity is good. There may be a slight crack within the chimney wall or damage to the mid-feathers within the flue (the brickwork which separates chimney flues). A crack within the chimney wall, or damaged mid-feathers, could result in harmful flue gasses finding their way into other parts of your property or roof space or even that of your neighbours. A smoke test will assist in identifying if there are any such problems.

There are many reasons that a fireplace may smoke back when in use: It could be that the flue requires sweeping or that the flue is obstructed in some way, possibly by a nest, fallen debris or fallen leaves. The fireplace size may not be compatible with the cross sectional area size and height of the chimney flue or the grate is too low or too far forward in relation to the fireplace recess. The chimney stack may terminate in a high pressure zone causing down draught or there may be a wind derived down draught. The chimney may be cold and damp causing lack of flue up draught or the ventilation provided may be insufficient.

This usually means a lazy and inefficient flue although some bituminous coals are particularly prone to this. Such a flue may not be the right diameter for the fire or stove, or may not be satisfactorily insulated so that the fumes do not rise fast enough and therefore create soot deposits. Excessive soot and tar can be a considerable fire hazard, particularly if the chimney structure has deteriorated; or where, on 19th century property for example, floor joists have been built into the stack, when the whole house can be at risk.

These may not be easily detected on closed appliances although if, with an open fire, the chimney smokes back into the room they are then obvious. Fumes contain carbon monoxide and are dangerous. Where there are leaks in the chimney the fumes can find their way into upstairs rooms and attics. Sometimes a tell-tale smoke stain around the edge of a carpet shows the presence of fumes.

This means that the chimney has deteriorated and may be dangerous. A hot wall in the room above may be a similar symptom. If stains also appear on the chimney breast this is a sign that tar or acids have condensed and are eating into the chimney mortar and brickwork.