Q. How often should I have my chimney cleaned?
According to the National Fire Protection Association Standard 211, Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents should be inspected
at least once a year for accumulative deposits, open clearance, and stable construction.
The cleaning and maintenance should be done as soon as it is necessary.
Following the national safety standards are recommended to address any issues or problems.
There is also a significant scenario to recognize, if your chimney is not used frequently, that animals may build nests in your flue, or there could be deterioration that could lead to a chimney to be not safe for continued use.
According to the Chimney Safety Institute, open masonry fireplaces need to be swept at least 1/8” of soot buildup especially if there is any glaze in that perspective unit.
There can sometimes be a crucial fuel buildup, that could potentially be damaging to the chimney, and causing a fire to spread to the home.
The fact is, the deposits are very acidic and can compromise the life of your fireplace.