Your annual chimney sweep and inspection keep your chimney in its best condition, so you can enjoy the fireplace in your Indianapolis home year and after year. As you look for the best chimney sweep in the area, you may be wondering what exactly a chimney sweep is and what skills they require. In the 1800s, a chimney sweep was defined as the person that cleans soot from the chimney. While this is still part of the job, the process is much more involved in modern days. Here are the most important skills and capabilities to look for in a chimney sweep. 

Required Skills

Chimney sweeping is a difficult, demanding task. To successfully sweep your chimney, a person must have

  • Physical strength 
  • Stamina
  • Ability to work with power tools
  • A clean driving license
  • The ability to work at heights
  • Camera surveying skills
  • Fault observation and documentation
  • Customer relations
  • Withstand confined spaces
  • Technologically savvy to use inspecting tools. 
  • Willingness to work long hours during the busy season. 

 

Knowledge 

Sweeping a chimney may sound simple, but it requires some detailed knowledge to do safely and effectively. The necessary knowledge of a chimney sweep is:

  • Combustion chemistry of creosote formation
  • Gaseous fluid dynamics (how a chimney works)
  • Carbon monoxide hazards
  • Building practices
  • Ventilation requirements
  • Smoke testing
  • The sweeping process, tool selection, and tool operation. 
  • Protective equipment. 
  • Fire precautions. 
  • Soot storage and disposal. 
  • Safety protocol.

 

Personality Qualities

Not just anyone makes a good chimney sweep. The skills and knowledge are a foundation, but the right character is also very important. The qualities of a great chimney sweep include:

  • Honesty and integrity 
  • Reliability 
  • Punctuality 
  • Determination
  • Patience
  • Tenacity 
  • Eagerness to learn 
  • Courteousness 

Look no further than the Brick + Ember Outfitters of Indianapolis to find a chimney sweep with all fo the idea skills, knowledge, and qualities you need. Each and every one of our chimney sweep technicians are CSIA certified and possess all of the skills and knowledge required for an accurate chimney sweep and inspection. Our entire team is committed to helping you protect your chimney and enjoy your fireplace for years to come. For an affordable, quality chimney sweep in the greater Indianapolis area, contact Brick + Ember Outfitters at 317-500-1250 or OFFICE@BRICKANDEMBER.COM.