When you get your chimney serviced this fall, be sure you hire an on-the-level sweep—and not one who'll diagnose huge, expensive-to-repair problems, regardless of whether they exist. Here's what ...

Removing ordinary chimney soot is pretty simple. But if you have heavy creosote buildup, youll have to call in a pro. Well show you how to inspect yours to see if it qualifies as a DIY job. If it ...

The chimney sweep's suggestion is indeed appropriate - for new construction. It's the way the chimney should have been built in the first place. But we can't see how you'll be able to pull it off ...

Chimney fires can be caused by a buildup of a tar-like substance called creosote. Here's how to make sure your chimney is clean, inspected and up-to-date.

Order some wood and get your chimney swept. Chimney sweep, Jason Press, has 30 years of experience and explains how often you should get it done. And what can go wrong if you leave it too long.

• Keep the area near the chimney clear. If you have trees that hang over the house near the chimney, make sure branches and leaves are at least 15 feet away. • Cap your chimney.

Repairing simple cracks or leaks on a chimney runs $160-$750, and completing them as needed can add decades to your chimney's life. However, even the best chimney needs to be replaced after enough ...

How to Check for Creosote The first thing to do when checking for creosote is to make sure there's no downdraft from the chimney. If you do feel any downward airflow, open a door or window on the ...