How to Choose a Chimney Inspection and Cleaning Service
Your chimney has to perform at optimal efficiency if you are to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, fire risks, and other inconveniences. If you use your fireplace regularly, you have to stay on top of your game regarding chimney maintenance. You should also beware of pests such as mice, birds, and squirrels that are likely to nest in your chimney. If you are inexperienced regarding cleaning and maintaining chimneys, or you simply cannot find enough time to commit to it, it is important to seek help. Understand that you would only enjoy high-quality services if you work with the right provider. How do you find such a provider?
Look for a provider that offers the specific types of services you need. A lot goes into maintaining chimneys, meaning that you need a provider that would offer comprehensive support. Some of the services such as providers offer include masonry restoration, chimney cleaning, relining, waterproofing, crown flashing repairs, among others. If you need a wide array of services, choosing a provider that offers all helps avoid the frustration of working with many different providers. In case you have a mortar deterioration and loose bricks problem, for instance, you will not need to hire a mason if your choice provider can address the problem.
Do they have enough experience to guarantee outstanding services? Assuming that all that you need is a chimney sweep that offers the services you need would be a bad decision. You should be sure that they have what it takes to do an outstanding job. If the project would be complex, especially if it involves opening up the chimney or removing some of its components for inspection and cleaning, the experience is a factor to give weight. To avoid falling prey to dishonest providers, it is important to ask for proof of expertise before committing.
Ensure that your potential provider will not start the work and leave halfway through. You should be careful to work with a provider that would not only start the work in time but also complete it in time. Understand that inspection, cleaning, and repairs might be demanding depending on the level of damage your chimney has. This means that the providers should be able to commit enough of their time to the work. Understand that some providers delegate or outsource. Delegation can only work if all of their employees are competent. A reliable provider should not outsource without consulting you.
Do not sign any contract before both of you agree regarding service fees. This ensures that you do not overpay for services. You should also avoid providers that give a generalized quote. Since you have unique needs, the provider should only give you a quote after they have evaluated the project. It is integral to inquire regarding the cost of materials. Get to know whether they have included the same in their fees as well. If the expert would ask for a downpayment, ensure that it is sensible. You should also compare fees across different chimney cleaning providers to avoid overpaying for services.