Sweep Day
Before the sweep arrives, it is helpful but not essential if, the flue to be swept has not been used for at least 24 hours and the appliance has been emptied of all ash, logs, fuel etc. We needs space to work,
so ensure the area in front of the fireplace is clear and move away any
hearth furniture and companion sets.
On arrival we will carry out a chimney inspection externally, upon entering your property will carry out a fireplace inspection and then an internal chimney inspection.
we treat your home with respect by protecting your home and its contents by sealing up the opening to the fireplace so that all dust is contained. We also use an industrial Vacuum cleaner to eliminate any mess. we will then decide on which tools to sweep the chimney with and carry out a full chimney sweep Upon completion we may carry out a CCTV inspection. A smoke check is carried out to ensure the chimney is functioning correctly.
A Chimney Sweep completed, with no mess or dust and Chimney Safety Certificate issued recognised by all leading insurance companies.
CCTV Inspections
Removal of vermin such as birds & squirrels
Which Wood Should I Burn?
As Chimney Sweeps we often get asked “Which wood Should I burn in my Stove?”
It’s not such a silly question all wood burns so on the face of it the answer should be any, obviously right?
It would be fair to say that all wood burns, but some depending on the density burn at different speeds or slower than others this can be a benefit, however, it doesn’t always mean it’s good.
Slow burning wood may also burn at a low temperature, and that might appear your stove isn’t drawing sufficiently. Faster burning woods as a general rule produces better heat output with a strong flame.
Fast burning woods burn as it suggests at a fast rate, this will result in you burning more, whilst a noticeable difference in the heat output will benefit the home, but you will burn more wood with costs associated.
So, as you can see the answer to the question is not so simple, for that reason we would recommend mixing both types. Listed below is a brief outline of the common types available.
All wood should be seasoned for at least 24 months and never burn wood with a moisture content above 20%
Preferably do not purchase wood in a plastic bag or from a gararge where wood is stored open to the elements.
Apple: burns slowly, but with a good flame, and moderate heat output.
Ash: fast burning with good heat output.
Beech: burns in a similar fashion to Ash.
Birch: burns quickly and produces a strong heat output
Horse Chestnut: has a strong flame and good heat output
Chestnut: A moderate fuel that produces a small flame and weak heat output.
Oak: is a hard wood which burns very slowly with low moderate output.
Cedar: good heat output burns well
Sycamore: burns with a good flame, with moderate heat.
Rowan: A good firewood that burns hot and slow.
Plum: provides good heat with a nice aromatic sent.
Pine: species generally: burns with a splendid flame, good heat output, but spit.
Pear: burns with good heat, good scent and no spitting.
Maple: A good all round firewood.
Hawthorn: good firewood, burns hot and slow.