Chimney flashing maintenance
Inspecting your chimney at least once a year is crucial. The build-up of soot, blocks caused by birds, nests and other debris are common problems of a chimney that affect smoke elimination efficiency.
Know your chimney
Not all chimneys need the same cleaning.
Inspection
You must look for any flaws of the chimney when inspecting it. The build-up of creosote and soot must be cleaned and any leaks and gaps in the chimney bricks must be fixed.
Chimney access
Access to the chimney is given either by a door, that is usually at the base of the chimney or by removing a section of the stovepipe so that you can access the chimney flue easier. Using a mirror to look up the chimney is the easiest way of inspection, but is the least effective.