Blog Layout

How to Choose a Professional Chimney Sweep for Your Home
Joseph Robarge • March 24, 2025

How to Choose a Professional Chimney Sweep for Your Home

A professional chimney sweep is responsible for ensuring you can use your fireplace safely and effectively. A primary benefit of the service they provide is the removal of a flammable byproduct of combustion called creosote. The process also removes soot, debris, and other materials that might otherwise block your chimney. 


Considering the importance of these tasks, hiring the right chimney sweep in Maple Grove, Minnesota, is vital. With that in mind, consider the following tips to ensure you choose the best Maple Grove chimney sweep for your home:


Speak With People Who Have Used the Service Before

Your first step should involve talking to your neighbors, co-workers, and anyone else in your social circle, as they might have suggestions for a chimney sweep based on their own firsthand experiences. Asking around will give you a list of potential companies to consider.


Verify Certifications

Once you have a list of Maple Grove chimney sweep companies, you can start verifying their qualifications. Every company should have a valid CSIA (Chimney Safety Institute of America) certification as well as an up-to-date NFI (National Fireplace Institute) certification. You can verify these credentials by visiting each organization’s website.


Check Licenses and Insurance

Ensure that you hire a chimney sweep who is authorized to conduct business in your community, and avoid working with companies that don’t have at least five years of verifiable experience. Check the dates on business licenses and insurance; working with an unlicensed or uninsured company can expose you to liability issues.


Read Past Customer Reviews

Your next step in refining your list of Maple Grove chimney sweeps involves learning more about each company’s reputation. Read recent reviews from customers and focus on those that mention reliability, quality of work, and professionalism. Eliminate potential companies with high numbers of negative reviews, and make sure you avoid chimney sweeps with problems mentioned by multiple reviewers.


Request Estimates From Every Maple Grove Chimney Sweep

By now, you should only have two or three options left on your list. It’s time to request an estimate from each company. As you compare them, avoid picking the company that offers the cheapest bid. You want to look to see what each estimate includes to determine which company is offering the best value for your money.


Trust the Pros to Keep Your Chimney Safe and Functional

Guardian Chimney Solutions LLC provides complete chimney care to homeowners throughout Minnesota. Our services include inspections, maintenance, repairs, and restorations, and we also offer superior chimney sweep services that Maple Grove homeowners can trust. Contact us to schedule service today!

Smoke rising from a brick chimney in a Minnesota home.
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
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.
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
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.
A brick fireplace with smoke coming out of it
By Joseph Robarge September 24, 2024
Learn how to clean your chimney safely with our step-by-step guide. Or, contact Guardian Chimney Solutions for professional chimney cleaning in St. Michael, MN, today.
Show More
Share by: