Frequently Asked Questions

A chimney sweep is a professional who specializes in cleaning and maintaining chimneys. Homeowners often require chimney sweep services to ensure the safety and efficiency of their fireplace or heating system.

Chimney sweeps play a vital role in preventing chimney fires, carbon monoxide leaks, and other potential hazards by removing creosote buildup, debris, and obstructions from the chimney flue.

Chimney cleaning is essential for several reasons. First, regular cleaning prevents the accumulation of creosote, a highly flammable substance that can lead to chimney fires. Second, cleaning removes any blockages or debris that could hinder proper ventilation, reducing the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Lastly, in Bozeman, Big Sky, and other areas in southwest Montana where winter temperatures can drop dramatically, a well-maintained chimney ensures efficient heating and minimizes energy wastage.

Our team, located in Bozeman, MT, recommends chimney cleanings annually to ensure efficient and safe operation of your fireplace.

For customers using a wood fireplace or stove as the main source of heat, we often recommend a cleaning twice per year, as the build-up of creosote and debris is directly related to the quantity of wood burned, and the quality and extent of the burn (i.e. how efficient your stove is).

DIY chimney cleaning and repairs are possible with the proper tools and training. For most homeowners, the toxicity and challenges of dealing with soot, creosote and the intricacies of a stove mean that it is not worth the time or effort. Professional chimney sweeps are able to clean and repair chimneys quickly, safely, and without spreading debris across your home.

We are often asked if burning paper, cardboard, or other household materials in a stove or fireplace is OK. While many things are flammable, we strongly recommend only burning dry firewood in your stove or fireplace.

Everyone will have a different opinion on the best type of wood to burn, and it varies regionally based on wood species grown in the region. That said, the best wood types to burn will be hardwood varieties due to their density and heat output. In the Bozeman and Big Sky regions, the most readily available wood to purchase is pine. Fir is available from some suppliers and even hardwood occasionally. The most important factor in choosing wood for your fireplace is to ensure that it has been properly seasoned (i.e. dried, without any green). Green wood produces significant build-up in your chimney flue, damages your damper, and causes unwanted blockages and poor ventilation.

Smoke problems are frustrating, and can damage the interior of your home if improperly handled. There are a variety of causes for it, but the most likely scenario is build up or blockage in the chimney flue. Over time, creosote build-up will often cause the smoke and other vapors to not vent properly.

Other common issues may be a damaged damper, a bird or pest taking residence in your chimney, or another type of blockage or damage to your flue. A chimney inspection can identify the problem, and we work with you to restore your stove or fireplace to proper working condition.

While burning scrap 2x4s or lumber in your fireplace may be appealing, we often recommend against it. Unfortunately, today’s lumber is less dense, and burns hot, quick, and messy - producing a lot of debris and limited amounts of heat.

Important: never burn treated or painted lumber. This can release toxic chemicals into your home, and is never worth the risk.