Frequently Asked Questions

What if I’m worried about the cost of chimney repair or maintenance services?

We understand that home repairs can strain any budget. That’s why we always start with an honest inspection and a clear explanation of what needs attention now and what can safely wait. Routine maintenance is also the best way to avoid large surprise repairs, because small problems are far cheaper to fix when they’re caught early. Give us a call at 240-801-5626, and we’ll walk you through your options.

What do I need to know about chimney swifts?

Chimney swifts are small migratory birds that like to nest inside uncapped chimneys. Their nests and debris are flammable and can block your flue. These birds are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, so once they’ve nested, they can’t be removed until they leave for the season, usually in early fall. The best prevention is to have your chimney cleaned after they leave and fitted with a properly sized chimney cap so they can’t get back in next spring.

What type of firewood should I use in my fireplace or stove?

Dense hardwoods such as oak, maple, ash, hickory, and cherry burn hotter and longer than softwoods like pine. Even more important than the species is that the wood is properly seasoned, meaning dried to about 20% moisture or less. Wet or “green” wood produces more smoke, burns poorly, and builds up creosote quickly, which raises the risk of a chimney fire. Let freshly cut wood dry for at least 6 to 12 months, stacked off the ground, covered on top, and open to airflow. Seasoned wood is lighter, has cracks in the ends, and makes a hollow clunk when two pieces are knocked together.

How often should my chimney be inspected and cleaned?

The National Fire Protection Association’s chimney standard (NFPA 211) and the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) both recommend a chimney inspection once a year, no matter how often you use your fireplace. How often it needs cleaning depends on what you burn and how much. Every sweep from Traditions includes a thorough Level II inspection, so you’ll know exactly where your system stands each year.

Do gas fireplaces need to be swept?

Yes. Gas fireplaces don’t produce the heavy creosote that wood does, but their vents can still collect soot, debris, and nests from birds or other animals. A blocked or damaged vent can reduce efficiency and, more seriously, allow carbon monoxide into your home. That’s why gas fireplaces should be inspected and serviced once a year, just like wood-burning ones.

What are the signs my chimney needs to be cleaned or repaired?

Common warning signs include:

• Smoke coming back into the room when you use the fireplace
• A strong smoky or musty smell, especially in warm or humid weather
• Black, flaky, or tar-like buildup inside the firebox or flue
• Cracked or crumbling bricks, or missing mortar
• A rusted, damaged, or missing chimney cap
• Water stains or dampness near the fireplace

If you notice any of these, schedule an inspection before your next fire.

Do I still need my chimney inspected if I don’t use my fireplace often?

Yes. A chimney that sits unused can still develop problems: water damage, cracked liners, animal nests, and debris blockages don’t depend on how often you light a fire. An annual inspection makes sure your system is safe whenever you do decide to use it, and it catches small issues before they become expensive repairs.

Can I use my fireplace if the chimney is cracked or damaged?

No. Cracks in the masonry or flue liner can let heat, sparks, smoke, and carbon monoxide escape into your walls or living space, putting your home and family at risk. Maryland’s freeze-and-thaw cycles also tend to make small cracks grow quickly. If you suspect damage, stop using the fireplace and have it inspected before your next fire.

Do I need a chimney cap, and what does it do?

Yes, we recommend one for nearly every chimney. A chimney cap keeps rain, snow, leaves, birds, and animals out of your flue. Its spark-arresting screen also helps keep embers from landing on your roof, and it can reduce downdrafts. Water is one of the biggest causes of chimney damage, so a well-fitted cap is one of the most cost-effective protections you can buy.

Can you repair or replace chimney liners?

Yes. The liner is what safely contains heat and channels smoke and gases out of your home. A cracked, deteriorated, or missing liner raises the risk of house fires and carbon monoxide leaks. After inspecting your flue, we’ll recommend whether a repair or a full relining is the right fix, and we’ll explain why.

How much does a chimney sweep cost?

The price depends on the type of fireplace or stove, the condition of your chimney, and what services you need. Every Traditions sweep includes a Level II inspection, so you get a complete picture of your system’s condition along with the cleaning. Call us at 240-801-5626 for a quote. We’re always upfront about costs before any work begins.

How often should I schedule dryer vent cleaning?

We recommend cleaning your dryer vent once a year. Lint builds up inside the vent over time and restricts airflow. That makes your dryer work harder, run longer, and use more energy, and it creates a real fire hazard. The U.S. Fire Administration lists failure to clean as a leading cause of home dryer fires. Large households, homes that do laundry daily, and homes with long or winding vent runs may need cleaning more often.

How long does a fireplace or dryer vent service appointment take?

Most appointments take about one to two hours. The exact time depends on the type and condition of your system, how easy it is to access, and whether any repairs are needed. We’ll give you an estimated time frame before we start and work efficiently without cutting corners.

Will fireplace cleaning leave a mess in my home?

No. We take care to protect your home throughout the job. Our technicians lay down drop cloths and use HEPA-filtered vacuums to contain soot and dust while we work. When we’re finished, we clean up the work area, so the only difference you’ll notice is a clean, safe fireplace.

What happens during a professional fireplace cleaning?

First, we protect the area around your fireplace. Then we use specialized brushes and vacuums to remove soot and creosote from the firebox, smoke chamber, damper, and flue. Every Traditions sweep includes a Level II inspection, which means we also check your system thoroughly, including with a camera inside the flue, for cracks, deterioration, blockages, and other hazards. Afterward, we walk you through what we found and give you an honest assessment of anything that needs attention.

Are Traditions Chimney Sweeps technicians certified?

Yes. Traditions Chimney Sweeps is certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), the industry’s leading standard for chimney safety knowledge and practice. Our company is owned and operated by career firefighters, so we’ve seen firsthand what happens when chimneys and dryer vents aren’t maintained. That experience shapes every inspection we do.