Chimney sweep and cleaning in Westland

Fireplaces across Westland

The brick ranches off Ford Road and Wayne Road mostly have a wood-burning masonry fireplace, and many still get used every winter. Some have had a gas log set put in. The houses built after the city formed in 1966 are more likely to have a factory-built fireplace with a metal flue. Each type gets soot and creosote on the flue walls if you burn wood in it, and damp or unseasoned wood leaves more than dry. Our guide on how often to clean a chimney has a simple way to tell when yours is due.

If you have a wood stove or an insert, call before you book so we can tell you what to expect.

The trees along Hines Park

Hines Park runs along the Middle Rouge through the north end of the city, with Tonquish Creek close by. Houses on the streets near the park have big trees over the roof. In the fall, leaves land on the chimney top. In spring, birds and squirrels look for a place to nest, and an open flue is an easy pick. A cap with mesh sides keeps them out, and we can quote one on the same visit if your chimney needs it.

Chimney swifts nest in masonry chimneys from May to August, and they're federally protected. If we find an active nest, we leave it alone and come back after the birds have gone. Our page on chimney swifts explains what to listen for.

What $349 covers

The cleaning is $349, with an inspection on the same visit. We cover the area around the fireplace, sweep the flue, check the chimney inside and out, and clean up before we leave. A camera through the flue is $75 more. If something needs fixing, you get photos and a written price, and nothing is done until you approve it. If you're buying or selling, the Level 2 chimney inspection is the better fit.

Timing

Book before the first cold weekend of fall. The schedule fills fast once people start lighting fires. If the inspection turns up a cracked crown or a rusted chase cover, booking early leaves time to get it fixed before the snow.