Hoover, AL Chimney Sweep & Fireplace Repair: Call Birmingham Chimney Services

Do Chimney Companies Remove Bird Nests & Other Blockages During a Sweeping?

Chimney sweeping isn’t only about cleaning out corrosive and flammable soot and creosote. It’s also about making sure your venting system is as clear as possible so that smoke and gases can safely travel up and out. One of the more common issues technicians run into during a sweep is animal nests, especially from birds, squirrels, or raccoons, as well as blockages from leaves, twigs, and other debris.

Why nests and blockages are a problem:

• They restrict airflow. A nest blocks the flue, which prevents smoke and gases from venting out effectively. This can lead to smoke spilling back into your living space.
• They increase the risk of carbon monoxide exposure. Blockages can cause fumes to re-enter the home, which is dangerous since carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and highly toxic.
• They increase the risk of fire hazards. Nests made of dry twigs, grass, or feathers are flammable. If sparks reach them, they could ignite and spread.
• They invite foul odors and pests. Decaying material or trapped animals can create unpleasant odors and attract insects.

Before the sweeping begins, our techs will perform a chimney inspection to see what’s inside the flue. If a nest or blockage is found, tools such as rods, brushes, and vacuums are used to carefully remove it.

There will obviously be some special considerations for live animals… In some cases, especially with federally protected birds (like chimney swifts), the nest cannot be disturbed while active. In these cases, we’ll recommend scheduling removal once the nesting season ends, then installing a cap to prevent re-entry.

Your Hoover, AL Chimney Sweep: We Can Travel To You Soon

As one of the larger suburbs of Birmingham, Hoover is a spot where you can find just about anything you need – whether that’s a knick-knack from a nearby shop or some quality time in nature. Its proximity to Birmingham and major roads (like I-65, I-459, and US-31) make it easy to enjoy modern amenities whenever you want, while having a more scenic and spacious area to actually call home.

Riverchase Galleria is a major hub in the area, acting as kind of a regional mall, with many stores, restaurants, and hotels in the area. Or enjoy nature at Moss Rock Preserve, which features trails, rock formations, streams, and even waterfalls. Need a day of family fun? Be sure to check out the Hoover Met Complex.

Other well-loved spots include Aldridge Gardens, a 30-acre garden with a lake, hydrangeas, and trails, and Shades Mountain, which is home to more rugged terrain.

Because of the combination of natural beauty, convenience, and amenities, Hoover has been one of the faster growing cities in the state. Whether you’re new to the area, have been here for years, or live in a surrounding community, like Lake Cyrus, Shades Mountain, Meadowbrook, Vestavia Hills, Pelham, or Helena, we’re here to help you out with any and all of your chimney and fireplace needs.

Can Chimney Sweeping Extend the Life of My Fireplace System?

Absolutely – routine sweeping can make a noticeable difference in how long your system lasts. Chimney systems are exposed to heat, moisture, smoke, and outside weather, so they naturally face wear and tear over time, and regular sweeping and inspection services can help to combat this. How so?

• Chimney sweeping removes harmful deposits. Creosote and soot are naturally acidic, and left in place, they can eat away at mortar joints or metal liners. Regular removal slows this process, helping masonry components and chimney liners last longer.
• Chimney sweeping prevents moisture damage. Moisture mixed with soot creates a corrosive substance. Clearing deposits during sweeping makes it less likely for acidic water to sit on surfaces.
• Chimney sweeping protects structural integrity. Removing blockages reduces the chance of smoke or heat being trapped inside, which can crack flue tiles. Not to mention, spotting spalling bricks, loose mortar, or rust early means repairs can be made before damage spreads.
• Chimney sweeping helps chimney components last longer. In a clean chimney, dampers stay cleaner and operate more smoothly, and the caps, crowns, and flashing can be inspected during a sweep, as well, preventing small issues from becoming major leaks.

All of this results in financial benefits, as well – think lower repair bills (since problems are caught in their early stages), fewer replacements of costly parts like liners or fireboxes, and more efficient system operation (meaning less fuel is wasted).

Chimney sweeping won’t stop natural aging altogether, but it’s one of the best steps a homeowner can take to help the fireplace system last as long as possible.

Is Chimney Sweeping Messy? How Do Sweeps Keep a Home Clean?

It’s natural to picture chimney sweeping as a dusty, dirty job, as soot, ash, and creosote are messy by nature. However, professional sweeps today use specialized equipment and techniques to keep the process as clean and non-intrusive as possible.

We’re well aware that soot can stain carpets, furniture, and walls, and fine ash particles can spread through the air if not contained. But, thankfully, modern sweeping practices ensure a cleaner home. We use things like:

• Protective coverings. Drop cloths and floor runners are placed around the work area to protect furniture and flooring.
• HEPA-filtered vacuums. These high-powered vacuums capture fine soot particles as the flue is brushed, keeping them from spreading into the air.
• Sealed containment. Specialized dust-control devices can create a sealed connection at the fireplace opening, ensuring debris goes straight into containment.
• Proper brushing techniques. We know how to carefully guide our brushes through the flue to minimize the disruption of soot.
• Clean entry/exit procedures. Tools and coverings are removed in a way that keeps debris contained.

Clearly, we’ll go to great lengths to ensure your home stays in tip-top shape. That said, to further ensure no valuables are ruined, we recommend moving any delicate items and furniture well away from the fireplace area before we arrive. A 6-foot clearance area around the fireplace is ideal.

With the right equipment and careful preparation, chimney sweeping doesn’t need to be messy. Professionals focus on keeping your home as clean and comfortable as possible while ensuring the system is ready for safe use.

For Chimney & Fireplace Services, Reach Out

Don’t wait until smoke, odors, or masonry damage disrupt your comfort. Birmingham Chimney Services provides Hoover homeowners with chimney sweeping, fireplace repairs, gas log service, and more, all backed by training, certifications, and a commitment to treating every customer like a neighbor.

Call us today to schedule your appointment.