As a Indianapolis, IN,  homeowner, you know the importance of preparation. The last house project you did by yourself, whether it was touching up the paint on the trim of your house or adding a new garden in your backyard, took a little planning and preparation. The early steps of any project can make all the difference. When you hire a certified chimney sweep, you shouldn’t have to do much. However, there are some simple steps you can take that will ensure the chimney sweep can do his or her job without running into issues.

Clear the Area Around Your Fireplace and Mantel

The chimney technician needs a little room to work. Those two leather chairs you keep next to the fireplace look fantastic and provide a comfy place to settle in and read a book, but you should move them back and out of the way for a chimney sweep. The same goes for the pictures and other memorabilia you keep on the mantel. Moving those things out of the way will ensure your prized possessions stay undamaged and clean.

Cover Nearby Furnishings

At Brick + Ember Outfitters (B+E), we try our best to keep your home as clean as possible. We use drop cloths and a dual HEPA filter vacuum to protect your home when sweeping a chimney. However, if you have delicate furniture or other belongings near your fireplace, it’s never a bad idea to cover them for an added layer of protection. A simple sheet will do the trick.

Clear the Area Around the Exterior of the Chimney

The exterior of the chimney won’t take much preparation. If you maintain your yard and home, it should be easy to access for an inspection. The goal is to make it as easy as possible for the chimney sweep to do a thorough inspection of the base, brick, mortar, flashing, and cap of your chimney. If there’s outdoor furniture, a garden hose reel, or some other kind of obstruction that can be easily moved, move it to a safe and secure place.

At B+E, we want our Indianapolis neighbors to have safe, functional and efficient chimneys. We believe an annual sweep and inspection is the best way to ensure your chimney is in top condition. We don’t think this service should break the bank. That’s why we offer high-quality sweeps and inspections for just $89—significantly lower than many of our competitors. If you’ve paid more in the past, call Brick + Ember Outfitters to schedule an appointment today.