Chimney Sweep Cost
How much does the average chimney sweep cost? The answer is dependent on what is being “swept,” cleaned actually, the location of your home, and the shape and size of your chimney and flue. Chimney sweeping is the cleaning of the inside of your chimney, where the smoke travels from your fireplace, stove, or other appliance inside your home to the outside air. The inside walls of the chimney are exposed to the hot gases and smoke from the burning fuel. Over time, the build-up of smoke can result in the collection of a residue, called creosote, on the inside of the chimney walls. As creosote residue builds up, it may take the form of a tar like substance on the inside of your chimney. At this point the creosote is highly flammable and could catch fire; creating a chimney fire that can destroy the chimney and spread throughout the house. Cleaning the chimney removes this residue to maintain the safety and efficiency of your chimney. The chimney sweep price should include not only the removal of the smoke residues, but should also include an inspection for damage such as cracked, broken, or missing tiles, bricks and mortar.
Approximate Chimney Sweep Cost
Chimney sweep cost for an average-size open fireplace and chimney will range from approximately $90 – $200. The chimney sweep price for wood burning stoves (freestanding type) including liners ranges from approximately $100 – $225. Chimney sweep cost for wood burning stove fireplace inserts with liners ranges from approximately $100 – $150.
Surcharges
The approximate chimney sweep costs listed above are for standard conditions. Any situation which deviates from those listed above will usually incur an additional charge. For example, wood burning stove fireplace inserts that do not have full length liners need to be pulled out from the fireplace to provide access to the chimney. This will usually cost $40 to $50 extra. If there are any pipes attached to the insert that need to be removed to be cleaned, it will cost approximately $20 more. If a camera inspection is requested during cleaning this will incur an additional charge of up to $300. Finally, any repairs, extreme residual build-up, unusual sizes or shapes will usually incur an additional charge.
Discounts
Discounts may be available from some chimney sweeps for a variety of different situations. In areas with particularly snowy winters, chimney sweeps may offer discounts for summer-time cleanings. Homes with multiple chimneys may receive a discount if all are serviced at the same time. Some chimney sweeps offer senior citizen discounts and discounts for repeat customers and others may offer yearly maintenance plans.
Raleigh, NC – (919) 285-2153