Questions and answers
Answers to what people ask us most about booking, visits and chimney safety.
Booking
How do I book a sweep or inspection?
Call 507-944-1071 or send the contact form with your address, what you burn and anything you have noticed. We call back to set a time.
How far ahead should I book?
In September and October, a few weeks. In spring and summer, usually much sooner, and summer is a good time for masonry repair because mortar and crown material cure better above freezing.
Do you come out for emergencies?
For a chimney fire, smoke in the house or a CO alarm, leave and call 911 first. Afterward, do not use the fireplace until it has been inspected; call us and we will tell you how soon we can come.
The visit
How should I prepare?
Do not burn for at least 24 hours so the firebox is cold. Clear a path to the fireplace or stove and move anything fragile off the mantel. Let us know about roof access, steep pitches or pets.
Is it messy?
We use drop cloths and a vacuum built for soot. You should not see soot in the room when we leave.
What do I get afterward?
A written summary with what we checked, what we found and anything we recommend, with photos when we find a problem.
Price and repairs
How much does a sweep cost?
Published national data puts a standard sweep at about $150–$375. See the price page. We confirm the price before we start.
Will you do repairs without asking?
No. We show you the problem, explain the options and give you the price. You decide.
Where does your safety information come from?
NFPA 211, the Chimney Safety Institute of America, appliance manufacturers' instructions, Minnesota code, and what we see in local chimneys.
Safety tips for any fireplace owner
- Burn dry, seasoned wood; wet wood makes far more creosote.
- Keep a working CO alarm near every sleeping area (Minnesota law requires it).
- Store ashes in a metal can with a lid, outside and away from the house.
- Have any chimney inspected after a chimney fire, a lightning strike or a big storm before you use it again.