FAQ's - Frequently asked questions
What is your history?
Countryman Chimney Services provides chimney sweeping and chimney cleaning services to clients throughout the local area. The company, which is located in Brightwell (Ipswich), began trading in 2005 and has many years of experience in the chimney sweeping and maintenance business.
The firm provides local people with a professional chimney sweeping and maintenance service and has all the latest equipment for a clean and safe sweep. The friendly owner helps customers to get the most from there stove or fire. The service is designed to leave your chimney clean and above all safe to use every time. (Importantly - the owner loves his work)
What can you supply?
The company supplies a comprehensive range of pots, antidowndraught cowls and bird guards, including fitting. Sourced from the UK, the products are designed for safety and efficiency and can stop birds, squirrels, leaves and other debris. The products are available upon request.
Do you do a basic safety check?
Yes we do. It covers the basic condition of chimney and flue and checks for any blockages.
How do I know if my chimney needs sweeping?
The most common early symptom is bits of soot dropping into the fireplace, or a strong smell coming from the fireplace, or smoke coming into the room (a potential killer). Others include problems with the 'burn of the fire.
How often should I have my chimney swept?
If you use your fire occasionally then annually is usually sufficient, however if you are a regular user, and especially if you burn wood you should have your chimney swept at the start of the burning season AND halfway through.
So should I have my chimney swept regularly?
If you are a very heavy user of wood you could need to have your chimney swept every 3 months. Generally once a year is sufficient for most other fuels, the exception being bituminous coal, which generally requires twice a year.
What should I use for fuel?
If you're in a smokeless zone then you will be restricted to burning smokeless fuels. If you do not live in a smokeless zone then it is up to you what you burn. House coal is very good, as is wood but, if you are using wood please make use it has been seasoned for at least a year outside to remove residues which, if left, could result in a build up of creosote in the flue and eventually lead to a chimney fire.
How can I stop birds nesting in the chimney?
Have a proper guard fitted. We can recommend the most suitable for your situation. Do not simply attach chicken wire as the birds will eventually pull it off. A proper cowl allows the sweeps brush to exit the chimney pot.
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