Professional Chimney Sweep Services

Since 1968, Custom Fireside has been serving Sacramento with a dedicated team of factory trained technicians certified by the National Fireplace Institute (NFI) and the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). We are dedicated to keeping your chimneys clean, safe, and ready for your fireplace use.  Call us today to schedule your professional chimney sweep service to get your chimney clean, safe, and ready to use. 

  • Chimney Sweep

    Chimney sweeping is a professional service that cleans soot, creosote,
    and debris from chimneys and flues, inspects for damage or blockages,
    and ensures safe draft and ventilation to reduce fire and carbon
    monoxide risks. Recommended annually.

    $230

  • Level 2 Chimney Inspection

    Detailed evaluation performed when changes are made or when damage, or persistent problems occur; it includes all Inspection of accessible portions of the chimney, attic, crawl spaces, and exterior, often using video scanning to identify defects, creosote, blockages, or structural issues. Written Report included. Realtor discounts available.

    $300

  • Level 2 Chimney Inspection with Sweep

    Full Level 2 Inspection with chimney sweep to clean your chimney and provide a comprehensive inspection of your fireplace and chimney with written report

    $450

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  • Factory-Trained Expertise

    Our technicians are rigorously
    trained to factory standards.

  • NFI-Certified Specialists

    Certified in gas, wood, and pellet appliances
    by the National Fireplace Institute.

  • Comprehensive Warranty

    All products are backed by full on-site
    warranty service at no additional cost.

Chimney Repair & Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your chimney keeps you and your family safe. Chimney sweeps done by qualified professionals remove flammable creosote and clears blockages to ensure airflow. Additionally, identifying structural damage early can prevent more expensive repairs. Even if you do not regularly have fires, your heating system may use the chimney as well. The National Fire Protection Association Here recommends having your chimney inspected at least once a year.

Areas we service

Custom Fireside serves Sacramento and nearby communities including Roseville, Rocklin, Citrus Heights, Carmichael, Elk Grove, Folsom, Rancho Cordova, Davis, Woodland, Lodi, Stockton, Vacaville, Fairfield, Auburn, Placerville, Grass Valley, Yuba City, Nevada City, Jackson, and surrounding Northern California towns—reliable chimney & fireplace services, certified technicians, same-week service, free estimates.

FAQ

How often should I have my chimney cleaned?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 211) recommends chimney inspections at least once per year and chimney cleanings as needed based on use. Homeowners who burn wood regularly should schedule a professional chimney sweep every year to prevent dangerous creosote buildup and reduce the risk of chimney fires.

When is the best time of year to schedule a chimney sweep?

The best time to schedule a chimney sweep is in the summer or early fall, before the heating season begins. Booking your chimney cleaning in August or September ensures your fireplace is safe and ready to use when the temperatures drop, and helps you avoid the busy fall scheduling rush.

How do I start a wood fire?

1. Place firestarters, fatwood or crumpled newspaper (3 or 4 sheets balled up fairly tightly) on the floor or grate of your stove.

2. Crisscross the kindling so there is plenty of air space in between each piece. Wood that is packed too tight will not burn properly.

3. Place at least two half cut logs on top of the kindling front to back with about a 1″ air gap between the two.

4. Put a piece of paper across the top of the larger logs.

5. Make sure your damper is completely open and light the paper on top first. This will help produce proper air draft venting up the chimney on colder mornings.

6. Once that has lit, begin to light the lower paper/firestarters.

7. Close the door enough so that there is at least a 1″ gap still open and maintain a fully open damper for at least 20 minutes. This will allow the fire to begin burning the wood and spread.

8. Once most of the initial wood begins to glow red and become coals, you can now add more wood and close the door.

9. Wait until the stove box reads at least 300 degrees before you decrease the damper. This will bring the stove up to efficient burning. (Any temperature under 300 degrees can cause heavier creosote buildup)

How do I know if my chimney needs cleaning?

Common signs that your chimney needs professional cleaning include a smoky or burning odor coming from your fireplace, smoke entering your living space, visible black soot or creosote on the damper or firebox walls, reduced draft, or if it's been over a year since your last chimney sweep. Don't wait for a chimney fire — schedule an inspection today.

What is creosote and why is it dangerous?

Creosote is a highly flammable, tar-like substance that forms when wood smoke cools inside your chimney flue. Over time, creosote deposits build up on the flue lining and become a leading cause of chimney fires. Annual chimney sweeping removes creosote buildup before it reaches dangerous levels, protecting your home and family from fire risk.

Can a dirty chimney cause a house fire?

Yes — a dirty chimney is one of the leading causes of house fires in the United States. Creosote buildup inside the flue can ignite and cause a chimney fire that can quickly spread to your roof and home structure. Regular professional chimney cleaning and inspections are the most effective way to prevent chimney fires.

Do I need a chimney cap, and why?

Yes — a chimney cap is one of the most important and cost-effective chimney accessories you can install. It keeps rain, snow, birds, squirrels, and debris out of your flue, prevents downdrafts, and reduces moisture damage to your chimney liner and masonry. Our chimney cap installation service is quick, affordable, and can extend the life of your chimney significantly.

Will the chimney sweep make a mess in my home?

No. Our professional chimney sweeps use heavy-duty drop cloths and industrial HEPA vacuums to fully contain soot, ash, and debris during the cleaning process. We treat your home with care and always leave your fireplace area as clean as we found it — often cleaner.



Do I need to be home during the chimney sweep appointment?

Yes, we require an adult (18+) to be present during your chimney service appointment. This allows our technician to walk you through any findings, answer your questions, and ensure you're fully informed about the condition of your chimney and fireplace system.

What should I do to prepare for a chimney sweep?

To prepare for your chimney sweep appointment, please ensure there is clear access to your fireplace and hearth, remove any fragile décor from the mantel or surrounding area, and secure pets in another room. There's no need to clean out the firebox beforehand — we handle everything.

How do I know if the chimney sweep job was done properly?

After every chimney service, your technician will walk you through exactly what was done and share any findings from the inspection. We provide a written service report and photos upon request, giving you a clear and documented record of the work performed on your chimney.

Do you service gas fireplaces?

Yes. Gas fireplaces and gas fireplace inserts require annual inspection and maintenance just like wood-burning fireplaces. Our technicians inspect the venting system, check for blockages or damage, and ensure your gas fireplace is operating safely and efficiently.



Can you sweep wood stoves and fireplace inserts?

Absolutely. Wood stoves and fireplace inserts are among the most common appliances we service. They require regular professional cleaning and inspection to prevent creosote buildup and ensure proper draft. We have specialized tools and training to service all major wood stove and insert brands.



Do you work on pellet stoves?

Yes. Pellet stoves have unique exhaust and venting systems that require annual professional cleaning and inspection. Our technicians are trained and equipped to service pellet stoves, keeping them running efficiently and safely throughout the heating season.



What is a hearth pad and why do I need it?

Floor protection requirements are different for each stove. Basically, it is to protect combustible flooring from hot sparks and embers. Other hearth pads protect from heat\transfer by means of conduction or radiation.