All realtors know to make sure the HVAC system is working to perfection and the caulk in the bathtub is touched up, but many totally gloss over one of the most potentially dangerous parts of the home: the chimney. Over time, even well-maintained chimneys can accumulate creosote build-up on the inside. Unfortunately, home inspectors are generally looking for obvious signs of wear and damage during the chimney portion of their examination. That means that any creosote build-ups outside of the naked eye may be glossed over altogether. Naturally, that doesn’t make creosote buildup any less dangerous.

Creosote 101

Creosote is a flammable and dangerous buildup that accumulates on the inside of a residential chimney after extensive usage. Creosote is formed when small wood particles, fly ash, and gas byproducts combine in the chimney as they leave the home. If a residential chimney isn’t cleaned regularly or ventilated, creosote will surely form along the chimney walls. Over time, the creosote build-up creates a powdery deposit waiting to ignite and potentially cause a devastating chimney fire.

Creosote goes through three formation stages, each with its own removal technique. The first phase is a flaky and dark soot-like material that is simple for a chimney sweep to remove during a pre-home sale cleaning. The second stage is a hard, shiny, dark black tar-like substance on the inside. This takes a bit more work to remove, so be sure to advise your sellers to leave the cleaning to the professionals. The final, and most dangerous stage is a thick tarry coating on the inside of the chimney that has hardened. If a home inspector spots this on the inside of one of your clients’ chimneys, you won’t just potentially lose a sale, you will also need to immediately remedy the dangerous situation.

In any case, Clean Sweep is here to deliver the fix 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

Protecting Your Clients this Fall and Winter

With autumn only days away, new homeowners will be looking forward to setting the mood in their new space with a crackling fire. Be sure to give them the peace of mind they deserve by advising a chimney cleaning and inspection this autumn!

Prepare for a Transfer of Property with Clean Sweep Maryland

Call Clean Sweep Maryland today at 410-558-1111 for professional chimney sweep, slate roofing and duct cleaning services designed to keep all your listed properties clean and safe for sellers and buyers. If you have a prospective home buyer or home seller in need of chimney inspection or repairs, we are here to help.