Our Process
How glazed creosote is removed in Astor Farms
Unseasoned wood and heavier creosote
EPA guidance explains that burning unseasoned wood takes a lot of energy just to drive the water out of the logs. That produces more smoke, and the extra smoke deposits more creosote as it moves up the chimney.
EPA describes well-seasoned wood as darker and lighter in weight, sounding hollow when two pieces are knocked together, and suggests checking it with a wood moisture meter. After removing the glaze from your Astor Farms chimney, we talk through the firewood you burn and how to tell when it is ready. Wood that hisses, steams or smokes heavily as it burns is a common sign that it is still wet.
Why removal products stay in trained hands
The products that loosen glaze are strong. The PCR data sheet warns that it causes severe skin burns and eye damage and may cause respiratory irritation, calls for it to be mixed outdoors, and lists a respirator, eye protection, protective clothing and chemical gloves for anyone handling it.
That is a large part of why creosote removal is a professional job. Our crew mixes and applies the product with that equipment, keeps it away from people and pets and cleans every tool and container before we leave your Astor Farms home.
When a sweep recommends removal
A chimney sweep who finds glaze has done you a favor by saying so. Brushing cannot lift it, so the sweep stops and recommends a removal treatment instead of leaving you with a flue that only looks cleaned.
Been told your Astor Farms chimney has glazed creosote? Tell us what was said and when. Our specialists confirm the deposit at a free inspection and give you a written plan and price for removal. If the sweep left notes, share them, since they help us compare what was seen then with what is there now.
Creosote removal before a home sale
A buyer's inspector who notes heavy or glazed creosote may recommend further evaluation, and a sale can stall while nobody knows the scope of the work or how long it will take. Sellers also want to know whether the fireplace can be advertised as usable.
A free flue inspection confirms the deposit, and the written plan gives the method, the visits and the price. The document is written so a buyer, a seller and their agents can all follow it, and removal can be timed to fit the closing.
