• We sweep chimneys and service gas fireplaces all year long. April – August is the best time for annual maintenance and repairs.
• From October through January, Louisiana Fireplace could be booked up 4-6 weeks out.
• As a courtesy, we will remind you of the appointment by a call or at text at least 24 hours before your appointment.
• Louisiana Fireplace technicians will arrive within two hours of the approximate appointment time.
• If you have a woodburning fireplace, please do not light a fire for about 36 hours before we are scheduled to come. We need it cold to sweep and service it.
• We cannot tell you if your fireplace is functional until we see it in person. The only way to know if the fireplace is functional is to schedule a certified sweep to inspect it annually. If you do not use your chimney/fireplace each year, we recommend an inspection before you burn again.

Our Chimney Sweeps are CSIA Certified. That means that our sweeps are trained by the Pros to be a Pro. We also love our fireplaces. Sitting near the fire in our homes is relaxing. It is our happy place. It is our desire that you love and enjoy your fireplace too.

With all the charm and warmth that a fireplace* can bring, it also needs regular attention and maintenance. Louisiana Fireplace wants to help you understand what your fireplace needs so that you can enjoy it for many years to come.

*For the purposes of the FAQ below, all open fireplaces with or without doors, prefabricated fireplaces, inserts, and stoves that burn wood are referred to as a fireplace. Pipe chimneys and brick chimneys are referred to as chimneys.

When should I call a chimney sweep?

A fireplace should be inspected annually or if you note something different in your fireplace.

For more information: https://www.csia.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/When-you-should-call-a-chimney-sweep.pdf

Why do I need an annual chimney/fireplace inspection?

There can be a lot going on in the chimney/fireplace that you cannot see. Let a professional look and make sure your fireplace is usable.

For more information: https://www.csia.org/homeowner-resources/what-is-a-chimney-inspection-why-do-you-need-one-every-year/

Should I have the chimney/fireplace inspected in a home that I am considering purchasing?

You should know if your fireplace is functional before you make the final decision to buy. A Real Estate Level II inspection looks beyond the basics to tell you more about the chimney/fireplace in the home you are purchasing.

For more information: https://www.csia.org/homeowner-resources/buying-a-house-why-do-you-need-a-real-estate-inspection/

What can I expect during an Inspection and Sweep?

You can expect a 33-point visual inspection and a sweeping when needed. Regularly maintained chimney/fireplaces do not necessarily need to be swept with every annual inspection. You can expect Louisiana Fireplace to leave keep the area around your fireplace just as we found it.

For more information: https://www.csia.org/homeowner-resources/what-can-you-expect-during-a-chimney-sweep-inspection/

What can I do to maintain my chimney/fireplace?

– Have your chimney/fireplace inspected annually.

– Keep your chimney/fireplace dry.

– Repair as needed and when recommended.

– Be mindful of what type of wood you are burning.

– Remove soot and smoke stains so that your fireplace is a happy focal point in your home.

For more information: https://www.csia.org/homeowner-resources/things-you-can-do-to-help-your-chimney-fireplace/

How do I know if my chimney/fireplace is okay to use?

Schedule an annual inspection. Repair issues when recommended. Understand that a buildup of creosote can be dangerous.

For more information: https://www.csia.org/homeowner-resources/the-ultimate-guide-to-using-your-fireplace/

What can I burn in my fireplace?

Burn seasoned wood. Use a moisture meter to determine if wood is properly seasoned. Do not burn anything else like paper or trash in your fireplace.

For more information: https://www.csia.org/homeowner-resources/the-ultimate-guide-to-firewood-what-you-can-cant-burn-in-your-fireplace/

Does a fireplace produce carbon monoxide?

Yes! Carbon Monoxide is because of the incomplete burning of fuel. Carbon monoxide is called the “silent killer.” It is the second leading cause of poisoning in the home.

For more information: https://www.csia.org/homeowner-resources/carbon-monoxide-your-home-what-you-need-to-know/

What should I know about a chimney fire?

A chimney fire is most often caused by buildup in the chimney due to a “dirty chimney.” Chimney fires can be dangerous. If your chimney is on fire, call 911 immediately. After a chimney fire, needed repairs may not be obvious but should be made before further use.

For more information: https://www.csia.org/homeowner-resources/the-facts-about-chimney-fires-your-questions-answered/

Why is my fireplace smoking?

A fireplace can smoke for any number of reasons:

– green/wet wood, the flue is not properly warmed

– the fire is too big for your fireplace, the liner is the wrong size for your chimney

– the chimney is blocked

– the chimney is not tall enough

– the stack effect, wind-loading, or interior competing mechanical devices

For more information: https://www.csia.org/homeowner-resources/why-is-my-fireplace-smoking/

What are common fireplace issues that can be repaired?

Birds, smells, clogged chimneys, chimney fires, leaking chimneys – while there is so much to love about a fireplace, we can help you know when to seek repairs.

For more information: https://www.csia.org/homeowner-resources/what-to-do-when/

My chimney leaks when it rains, what should I do?

Chimney leaks can be caused by missing or damaged chimney cap, receding mortar joints, or a poorly installed or damaged flashing. Each possibility has a different solution. Most leaks can be repaired. Proper maintenance can help avoid some leaks.

For more information: https://www.csia.org/homeowner-resources/chimney-leaks-what-to-do-if-you-have-one-how-to-prevent-them/

Chimney Sweeps clean Dryer Vents too!

Your dryer runs more efficiently when the vent is clear. Chimney sweeps also sweep dryer vents.

For more information: https://www.csia.org/homeowner-resources/clothes-dryer-safety-tips/

What should I know about my outdoor fireplace or firepit?

Outdoor fireplace places need to be maintained just like an indoor fireplace. Firepits need to be kept a safe distance from your home and on the proper flooring. Starting a fire in a firepit or outdoor fireplace needs to be done with care.

For more information: https://www.csia.org/homeowner-resources/fire-pit-safety-tips/