A chimney sweep is a professional who cleans soot and ash from your chimney. A chimney draws air up the inside of your house by using the pressure differential created by the hot gas or wood burning in it. The chimney may be straight or have multiple twists and turns. A skilled professional will be able to clear these debris, allowing the system to breathe easier.
A good chimney sweep will inspect your firebox. It’s not necessary to have a video camera to do this, but if your firebox is damaged, it can make your home vulnerable to ambient heat. A professional chimney sweep will also check the exterior of the chimney for cracks and brick integrity.
Even a small crack can lead to crumbling brick, and a professional will have the right tools to repair it. This inspection will ensure that your fireplace remains safe to use, and that you’re not leaving anything behind.