Chimney repairs and maintenance
Stove Servicing
Our stove service can address basic remedial repairs highlighted from the sweep. These include:
- Replacing the fire rope if it's worn, snagged or compressed. This is used to create an airtight seal, and is critical for efficiency and safety.
- Cleaning the inside of the stove and the glass, so that it's easier to spot any cracks or damage.
- Cementing any minor cracks in the firebricks.
- If replacement fire bricks or glass are required, these will be quoted for separately as they differ by make and model.
If there is any work that cannot be address by our stove service, we will advice on the next steps for you.
CCTV Chimney Inspections
If you suspect your chimney or stove flue is blocked, or you have seen evidence of birds nesting, then we can do a CCTV flue inspection. This will also be recommended if any evidence of a blockage is removed during a standard sweep; e.g. if twigs, leaves or feathers are found.
The price of the CCTV inspection includes a standard sweep, so you don't pay twice. We will provide verbal feedback and very basic summary notes as part of the post-sweep certificate. If a detailed written report is required, that this will be produced at an additional cost.
Bird's Nest Removal
There are several species of UK birds that utilise cavity nesting, and a chimney pot is an ideal spot! The most common of these is the Jackdaw, but you may find Rooks, Starlings and Swallows. Unfortunately, a bird's nest is a significant fire hazard, can attract fly infestations, and block the chimney's exhaust route.
We have specialist tools to remove a bird's nest, and a CCTV inspection might also be required; either initially, or for confirmation that all material has gone. It can be difficult to assess how long a bird's nest removal will take. We charge for one hour, then per-30 minutes thereafter.
It is illegal to destroy a bird's nest that is being built or in use (Wildlife & Countryside Act, 1981). The breeding season is typically March to August, but fledglings can leave the nest as late as mid-September. Please DO NOT light a fire if you suspect any nesting activity.
Bird Guards, Pots & Chimney Caps
As part of our installation services, we can advise you of the best fixtures and fittings to suit your needs. For example, the most effective way to prevent birds from nesting is the installation of a bird guard. Alternatively you may have a problem with rain ingress, down-draughts, or want to cap-off a chimney that is no longer in use.
Our installation service starts from £145 including parts and labour, and we will provide a quote for all work. Please note, our ability to carry out the work is dependent on having safe access. Scaffolding may be required - at an additional cost - for work above two storeys, or where access is not possible or safe with traditional ladders.
Chimney Lining
A chimney liner is not a legal requirement, providing your chimney stack is free from defects and is suitable for its intended use. However, a liner has several benefits from an efficiency, safety, and environmental point of view. These include:
- Improving the efficiency of the draught by helping to raise the temperature of the flue (versus a wider, open cavity)
- Providing a direct route for harmful products of combustion to move away from your house
- Preventing condensates or tar from seeping through chimney walls causing staining inside or outside the building
- Preventing smoke from leaking into your home if your chimney stack were to lose integrity
We install high quality 316 or 904-grade steel liners and fittings. If you are getting a stove installed, we can install the liner for you and leave it ready for connection (for commission by the installer).