Tools Chimney Sweeps Use 

 When performing a chimney sweep, our professionals at Felgemacher Fireplace utilize a variety of specially designed tools for cleaning the chimney. These tools are effective in removing soot, creosote, and debris from the flue. Before we begin, we will get a visual assessment of the flue using flashlights, mirrors, and digital cameras. Here is a summarized list of the tools you can expect to see as we come to clean your chimney.

Chimney Sweep Tools:

Rods and Ropes- Flexible rods are used to attach to brushes and maneuver up and down the chimney. Flexing through curves. The rope allows the chimney sweep to move brushes up and down the chimney, enabling the brush to reach all areas and clean them thoroughly.

Brushes – Different types of brushes are used to clean the chimney. Primarily, wire and poly are used, depending on the material of the chimney’s lining. Masonry chimneys and soot require wire brushes, and softer poly brushes can be used on metal and stainless steel liners to avoid any damage. Flat wire brushes or smoke chamber brushes are needed for tougher buildup or areas that are tough to clean.

Vacuums- High-powered industrial vacuums are used to remove debris, soot, and dust. They are much more powerful than any household vacuum and specially made for chimney sweeping. 

Chimney Cleaning Agents – When brushes and vacuums can’t clean stubborn creosote, we use a cleaning agent specifically designed for the hard-to-remove collection of creosote.  

Camera and Inspection Equipment – Cameras play a crucial role in the cleaning of chimneys. We use cameras on flexible rods to inspect the inside of the flue. We are looking for blockages, creosote buildup, and damage that may not be visible to the naked eye. The camera navigates through the chimney, from the damper to the top. Bright lights and rotating heads provide live video feeds and photos to identify cracks, hidden obstructions, and gaps.  

Regular maintenance of a chimney is essential for both safety and efficiency. Having the right tools makes all the difference. Our technicians are equipped with all the necessary tools to clean every chimney, whether straight or with a bend. With the use of accurate tools, this ensures that every fireplace will burn bright and safely season after season.

Call the Chimney & Fireplace Experts

A clean chimney is a safe chimney, and we’ll keep yours as secure and efficient as possible. At Felgemacher Fireplace, our owners are certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America – a stringent industry certification held by only the best sweeps in the U.S. We remove flammable creosote from chimney flues, thereby reducing the risk of a chimney fire. We also remove debris and obstructions that could hamper the drafting of smoke and carbon monoxide. We’ve been helping people throughout the Buffalo, NY, and Rochester, NY areas get the most out of their fireplace inserts, stoves, and chimneys for over 60 years. When specialized chimney services are required, count on us for the best in chimney sweeping, chimney repair, chimney rebuilding, and chimney inspection.