When it comes to owning your own home, most homeowners not only take pride in it, but also take care of it. A person doesn’t buy a sports car and then forget to change the oil, rotate the tires, and wash it regularly. The same is true of your house. In order for your home to last a lifetime, it needs certain things. The plumbing may need to be repaired, the electrical box upgraded, and the chimney system cleaned. You wouldn’t hire any old amateur to repair your plumbing or rewire your breaker box, so why hire one to service your chimney?
The Chimney System
The chimney has an important job to do. It vents harmful gases and particulate pollution out of the home, and in doing so helps your fire to burn properly and keeps your family safe. It is one of the biggest most important systems in your home, and just like the rest of your house or your car, it will go quickly downhill if neglected. The best way to ensure your chimney lasts a lifetime is to schedule maintenance, repairs, installations, and construction with a certified chimney sweep only.
CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps (CCS)
The nationally recognized standard for the chimney industry is and has been the CSIA certification. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) has been the industry standard since its inception in the 1980s. The chimney industry is still widely under-regulated, so it’s important to avoid scams and amateur work. Hire the best every time when choosing CSIA certified sweeps.
Field and Classroom Trained – Your CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep (CCS) has invested time and money into this certification. He or she must:
- purchase study materials,
- attend an in-person review session,
- take the review online,
- or attend a National Chimney Sweep Training School.
Tested – After completing the classroom training, each student must pass a one-hour exam based on chimney sweeping followed by a 90-minute open-book review based on International Residential Code. This standardized method of testing means that every certified sweep has the knowledge required to get the job done.
Code of Ethics – Each CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep (CCS) must sign a Code of Ethics designed to protect homeowners from scams in the industry. If a sweep is found to be in violation of this code, he can have membership revoked.
Continuing Education – Because the chimney industry changes along with safety codes, technology, and even trends, there is a need for chimney sweeps to stay ahead of the changes. Each CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep (CCS) must re-certify every three years through examination or education credits.
Hiring the Best
You may find there are several CSIA certified chimney sweep companies in your area. It’s up to you to choose the best one for your home. Hudson Chimney is not only CSIA certified, but also holds membership in the National Chimney Sweep Guild, the Georgia Chimney Sweep Guild, and the Florida Guild of Professional Chimney Sweeps. We don’t just say we’re the best; we are the best, serving the Jacksonville, Florida area for over 30 years. Call Hudson Chimney today to find out what our certified chimney sweeps can do for you. Dial 904-282-4159 today.