Our Expertise
We take the time to educate customers on stove and wood burner use, as well as sharing maintenance tips, and safety best practice. Here, we answer common questions about chimney sweeping, stove and burner use, as well as our removal processes.
Frequently asked questions
If you don’t clean your chimney, you are putting yourself at risk of chimney fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. The build up of soot, creosote and tar can block fumes from escaping and ignite under heat.
Contrary to common belief, home owners are not legally obliged to have their chimneys swept although this is sensible good practice.
Your fireplace needs to be cool to the touch for the chimney sweep to perform their work. You should avoid lighting the fireplace or stove for 24 to 48 hours before your appointment to allow it enough time for the interior masonry to cool down.
Chimneys are usually swept from the fireplace, so there is usually no need for access to the roof. Your sweep will be able to advise if they need to sweep through your appliance or via an access hatch.
If you’re asking what can happen if you go too long without a chimney cleaning, it’s likely time to schedule chimney cleaning before using your fireplace again. The reality is that it can be hazardous to use a fireplace when the chimney hasn’t been cleaned for more than a year or two.
When your chimney is not cleaned for a long time, a substance called creosote keeps building up in the flue during the use of the fireplace. This creosote is highly flammable and can lead to a dangerous chimney fire (an uncontrolled 2000 degree fire burning inside the chimney).
The Certificate of Chimney Sweeping – The document is an official method of acknowledging that a sweep has been carried out and all risk assessments made to the professional industry standard. We always advise customers to keep the certificate safe just in case it’s needed to validate an insurance claim in the future.
An unused chimney should always be swept and given a little ventilation top and bottom.
A business you can trust.
We understand that customers want a friendly, reliable service and honest advice.
Whether we work with you to install a new stove, remove an old burner, sweep a chimney or inspect a chimney, you can expect a professional and friendly service.
At Shire Chimney Sweep we are proud to support the North East community - from North Tyneside to Northumberland, and Newcastle to South Tyneside - with quality workmanship.
We hope our question and answers help you better understand the services we offer, but please do not hesitate to reach out with a question or query.
What Our Clients
Say About Us
Michael Smith - Google Review
"I couldn’t be more thrilled with the service from Karen and Frank at Shire Chimney Sweep! They installed a beautiful multi-fuel fire and mantle for us, and the whole process was flawless."
Steven Turner - Google Review
"Karen and Frank from Shire Chimney Sweep provided an exceptional service when cleaning my multi-fuel burner fire. They were both friendly, professional, and incredibly knowledgeable."
Emma and Mark - Tynemouth
“Very happy with the service that Frank and Karen provided. Very professional, polite and did a great dust free job. We will will certainly recommend.”
Elliot and Kay - Morpeth
“On time - Using a camera Frank inspected the chimney before starting work to ensure there were no unexpected blockages or potential issues. Would highly recommend.”
Kerry and Roy - Gosforth
“Very prompt service, professional, no mess, and good advice. I highly recommend and will use Shire Chimney Sweep again - Thank You Frank and Karen”
