Chimney Services

At Ash and Soot, we specialise in comprehensive chimney sweeping services in Essex designed to enhance the comfort and safety of homeowners.

While our main service is expert chimney sweeping, we are fully trained to address all aspects of chimney maintenance for homes with fireplaces, gas or oil appliances, and solid fuel stoves—each requiring careful attention to safety and efficiency.

We take great pride in offering a mess-free chimney sweeping service, ensuring that your home is treated with the utmost respect. Chimneys are swept to remove harmful residues that can block the flue and disrupt proper airflow, as well as flammable deposits that may lead to dangerous chimney fires.

Upon arrival, our certified chimney sweep will conduct a thorough inspection of your chimney from the outside, ensuring correct flue termination. Our professional and friendly technician will carefully prepare your home before beginning the sweeping process, covering carpets and floors to maintain a clean environment. If necessary, our sweeps will use protective shoe covers and floor sheeting to prevent any damage, but please feel free to place your own coverings down for added peace of mind.

A NACS certification of completion will be provided when your chimney is swept. Should any concerns arise during the inspection, our experienced sweep will explain the issues and provide you with clear guidance. Full advice is given along with a complimentary advice booklet!

Our Chimney Sweeping Services

Chimney Sweeping

Stoves, fires and different flues, we use traditional sweeping methods to clean your chimney/flue leaving your flue in a clean and safe condition.

Our sweeps have been trained and assessed by the National Association of Chimney Sweeps and will visually inspect your chimney/flue and appliance before starting the sweep.

Upon conclusion of the sweep if our sweep is happy with the condition of the appliance and flue you will be issued with a Certificate of Chimney Sweeping for your home insurance.

Bird Nest Removal

Large birds often build nests in chimneys, blocking airflow and causing dangerous fumes to accumulate. Our sweeps follow the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 for nest removal. After removal, we conduct a CCTV inspection to ensure the flue is clear.

We can safely assist with nest removal, depending on the time of year. The removal time may vary depending on the nest.

CCTV Inspection

We use CCTV to check for cracks, leaks, blockages, and creosote, preventing poor performance, chimney fires, and carbon monoxide risks. The camera is attached to the sweep's rods and inserted into the chimney to capture clear images of the flue. We’ll report any damage, such as perished joints or cracks. While the CCTV provides valuable insight, only a smoke test can confirm the flue’s integrity and detect leaks.

Smoke Evacuation Check

A smoke evacuation check tests the 'draw' or 'up-draught' of the stove or fireplace to make sure there are no dangerous leaks and that the combustion gasses are removed efficiently. This is done after the chimney has been swept.

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FAQs