A Step-by-Step Guide to DIY Chimney Cleaning and Maintenance

If you’re considering taking chimney maintenance into your own hands, there are some things you should know before you step foot in all the soot! Here’s a chimney owner’s guide to chimney cleaning in St. Michael, MN.

The Point of Cleaning Your Chimney

Why bother with chimney maintenance at all? It seems obvious that you’d want to keep it clean for the sake of it, but a clean chimney actually facilitates a safer home.

The residue that builds up in your chimney is extremely flammable. Leaving it alone increases the risk of house fires dramatically, so having a professional chimney cleaning in St. Michael, MN, is vital!

Preparing the Work Area

Whatever you’re doing in your chimney, you should put down a tarp or something to cover your furniture. It will keep you from getting soot or debris all over your belongings while you’re cleaning. This is a good time to set up any cleaning equipment as well.

Inspect the Chimney

Use a flashlight to look up your chimney and see if there are any blockages. If you spot obstructions, you’ll need to carefully remove them before doing anything else. Do this carefully, or leave it to professionals to handle it.

Clean From the Bottom Up

Start your cleaning from the bottom and work your way up the chimney. Use a brush and scrub the inside with an up-and-down motion. Make sure you’re hitting every part of the chimney to dislodge all the dirt and flammable debris.

Clean the Fireplace

Your fireplace will likely be covered in soot when you’re done. Use a vacuum cleaner to finish clearing out the area. Your last step should be taking a damp cloth to the fireplace’s interior to wipe off any remaining residue.

Call Guardian Chimney Solutions for Chimney Cleaning in St. Michael, MN

If this task seems like a bit much or you just don’t have the time, you can always contact Guardian Chimney Solutions LLC to take care of it for you! Call us today to learn more and schedule your appointment with our cleaners!

Newer Post >

Smoke rising from a brick chimney in a Minnesota home.

Why Do I Get Smoke in My Basement Fireplace When I Use the Upstairs Fireplace?

By Joseph Robarge • February 12, 2025

Experiencing smoke in your basement fireplace when using the upstairs one? Learn about smoke crossover & when to call for chimney repair in Medina.

A professional chimney sweep in uniform inspecting a brick chimney, showcasing proper tools and equi

How to Choose a Professional Chimney Sweep for Your Home

By Joseph Robarge • January 14, 2025

Hiring a chimney sweep in St. Paul? Learn how to choose the right professional with tips on questions to ask, reading reviews, and checking credentials.

Top Chimney Repair Problems and Effective Solutions

By Joseph Robarge • December 2, 2024

Common Chimney Repair Issues and How to Address Them Minnesota homeowners realize that the state’s harsh winters can be hard on home chimneys. It’s not unusual for freezing temperatures, snow, and ice to stick around in winter, causing significant wear and tear to chimneys. Left unattended, this can lead to expensive repairs. However, keeping an eye on your chimney and detecting problems can give you a leg up in staying cozy this winter. Here are some of the most common issues with chimney repair in Twin Cities and how you can keep them under control. Creosote Accumulation Creosote is a thick, flammable substance containing a blend of dangerous chemicals that humans shouldn’t breathe in. It’s a byproduct of burning wood and builds up in chimneys that aren’t regularly cleaned or serviced. If creosote buildup goes unchecked, it could present a significant fire risk. A basic chimney sweep with close inspection can control creosote congestion. Chimney Blockage You might be surprised to learn how many things can gather in your chimney. Everything from dried leaves and debris to small animals and their nests can get stuck in your chimney, preventing the escape of smoke and forcing toxic substances into circulation. Basic chimney repair in Twin Cities includes checking for and removing objects that have lodged in your chimney. Cracks in Chimney Structures Although brick chimneys are built to last, they’re still subject to the ravages of normal wear and tear. Moisture can cause cracks in the mortar. Chimney crowns and flashings that shield the chimney from adverse weather problems can also get cracked from atmospheric pressure. Annual inspections can limit cracking issues and keep your chimney in working order throughout winter. Damaged Flue Liner Flue liners are crucial in proper ventilation. Their constant exposure to heat can cause damage over time and even cause smoke to penetrate your home’s wooden structures and frames. If you think your flue liner may be damaged, stop using it and consult a chimney repair service . Guardian Chimney Solutions LLC: Top Chimney Repair in Twin Cities If you’ve noticed any of these chimney issues in your home, contact Guardian Chimney Solutions LLC for a quote on repairs and replacement.

A professional inspecting and repairing a chimney with visible cracks and efflorescence in St. Micha

Common Chimney Repair Issues and How to Address Them

By Joseph Robarge • October 17, 2024

Learn about common chimney repair issues like blocked flues, efflorescence, and cracked bricks in St. Michael, MN. Contact Guardian Chimney Solutions for expert assistance.