Why chimney sweeping matters
A chimney might look like a simple part of your wood-burning setup, but it’s doing a lot of work behind the scenes — drawing smoke and gases safely out of your home, protecting your stove, and preventing dangerous soot buildup.
Over time, even when you burn clean, ultra-dry firewood like ours, residue still builds up inside your chimney. This includes soot and creosote — a flammable, tar-like by-product of wood combustion. If left unchecked, it can block airflow, damage your flue liner and even cause chimney fires.
Regular sweeping is the solution — and in most cases, a legal and insurance requirement too.
How often should you sweep your chimney?
For wood-burning appliances, the general recommendation is:
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At least once a year for occasional use
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Twice a year for regular/daily use
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More frequently if you burn wet or unseasoned wood
Because all of our logs at The Logsmith are ultra kiln dried to under 15% moisture, they reduce the risk of residue buildup — but sweeping is still essential.
According to the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps, burning properly dried wood reduces soot deposits by as much as 70%, compared to unseasoned logs.
What does a chimney sweep actually do?
A professional sweep will:
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Use brushes or rotary tools to remove soot, creosote and debris
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Check the flue lining for damage or blockages
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Remove any bird nests or obstructions
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Provide a certificate of sweeping, which may be required by insurers
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Offer advice on fuel, stove use and maintenance
Some also use camera inspections to check areas you can’t see from below — ideal if your stove is older or recently installed.
How much does chimney sweeping cost?
Most chimney sweep appointments cost between £50 and £100, depending on:
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Your location
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Chimney height and access
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Type of appliance (e.g. stove vs open fire)
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Whether extra services like camera inspection are included
A straightforward sweep typically takes under an hour — and should leave no mess behind.
What qualifications should a sweep have?
Look for a sweep certified by one of the following:
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HETAS (Heating Equipment Testing and Approval Scheme)
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The Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps
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National Association of Chimney Sweeps (NACS)
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APICS (Association of Professional Independent Chimney Sweeps)
These organisations ensure sweeps are trained, insured and follow safety best practice.
When’s the best time to book a sweep?
Late summer or early autumn is ideal. You’ll beat the seasonal rush, and your chimney will be freshly cleaned ready for heavy winter use.
If you’ve moved into a new property, just installed a new stove, or haven’t burned in months, book a sweep before your first fire.
What else can you do to protect your chimney?
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Burn ultra-dry, Ready to Burn logs – like our birch, ash or oak
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Avoid overloading your stove, which can smoulder and create more creosote
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Don’t burn waste wood, coal or plastic – they release harmful gases and clog your flue
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Keep a fireguard or spark screen on open appliances
In summary:
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Chimney sweeping keeps your stove safe and legal
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Book at least once a year — more for heavy use
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Only hire certified professionals
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Burn kiln dried wood under 20% moisture (ours is under 15%)
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Keep a sweeping certificate for insurance and records