When it comes to chimney maintenance, many homeowners are on the lookout for fast and easy fixes. One popular product on the market today that promises to clean your chimney is chimney sweeping logs. For about $20 these products seem like a fast, cheap, and easy alternative to having your chimney swept. However, chimney sweeping logs should never be used as an alternative to a professional chimney cleaning.

How Are Chimney Sweeping Logs Dangerous?

Chimney sweeping logs advertise themselves as an alternative to a professional chimney sweeping. As they burn, the smoke from the logs loosens creosote in the flue; as it loosens, the creosote then falls down and into the firebox where it can be easily removed.

While this may work in theory, it often fails when put into practice. Because most chimneys do not have straight, vertical flues, the loosened creosote often winds up trapped in the bends of the flue.

…the loosened creosote often winds up trapped in the bends of the flue.

Accumulated creosote can cause a few major problems:

1. Creosote is extremely flammable. Having accumulated creosote in the bends of the flue increases the risk of chimney fire should any stray sparks and embers travel up the flue.
2. Large amounts of fallen creosote sitting in the bends of the flue can cause chimney blockages. These types of blockages can impact venting, as well as cause gas and smoke to flow back into your home instead of up the chimney.
3. Using a chimney sweeping log can make it more difficult to clean your chimney in the future. The fallen loosen creosote can accumulate in the smoke shelf above the firebox – one of the most difficult to reach and clean areas of the chimney.

Chimney Sweeping Logs Can’t Replace a Professional Sweeping

Chimney sweeping logs might seem like a cheap and easy alternative to a professional chimney sweeping, but they can actually do more harm than good.

“I usually tell people using one of those logs instead of having your chimney cleaned manually is like chewing Dentyne instead of brushing your teeth,” said Allan Bopp of Bald Eagle Enterprises. “It may help a little, but it’s a poor substitute for the real thing.”

Even if they can help to loosen creosote, chimney sweeping logs cannot replace the benefits of having a professional sweep and inspect your chimney. A certified chimney professional is able to identify any signs of chimney damage or deterioration during a cleaning; oftentimes, spotting problems early can help prevent serious damage – as well as expensive repairs.

While chimney sweeping logs work in theory, using one can cause serious problems within your chimney system. Instead, skip the chimney sweeping log altogether and let a professional chimney sweep keep your chimney clean – and your family safe.

Schedule With Us Today

Ready for some quality, professional care? Contact Lords Chimney today to schedule your next chimney sweeping!