Callaway
Chimney Sweeps And Inspections

With over 30 years of chimney sweeping experience, Sootmaster of Callaway is dedicated to giving you the best experience when dealing with your chimney and fireplace system.

What we do

Chimney Sweeps, Repairs, Inspections, Installations

What To Expect

Here at Sootmaster Chimney Sweeps of Callaway, Florida, your satisfaction is our priority. We have spent the last 30 years perfecting our craft and earning a great reputation with those we have had the pleasure of meeting. At Sootmaster, we hold our technicians to the highest standard of training and certification, and we use the best equipment. It is for these reasons we offer 10-year warranties on most of our services. To find out which services or to schedule a warranty appointment, call us at (850) 712-3470.

 

Why Choose Us

As we have mentioned before, you are the number one priority here at Sootmaster of Callaway. We value your experience with us more than anything, which is why we have the most respectful and knowledgeable team. Because we do not want to be the cause of any problems for you, we do our best to give you fair pricing for the quality we provide. We promise to provide the best quality service and customer interaction because we have the best people for it. Give us a call at (850) 712-3470 and we would love to speak to you more and see what we can do for you!

Sweeps & Inspections

Sootmaster Chimney Sweeps of Callaway Florida offers professional chimney sweeping services as well as quality inspections. Learn more about our sweeps and inspections, and trust in the Sootmaster.

Waterproofing & Repairs

Sootmaster of Callaway offers excellent waterproofing services and general masonry and prefab repairs. Call Sootmaster to schedule an appointment with our professionally trained technicians.

Custom Installations

Do you have a fireplace? Do you want one? Sootmaster also offers professional chimney and fireplace installation. Whether it be a masonry system (brick), or prefabricated (metal), Sootmaster has you covered.

Where Is That Odor Coming From?

Imagine you and your family are sitting in the living room watching movies on the television above the fireplace and mantel. Next thing you know, there is a strange smell appears in the air. Little does anyone know that it is coming from the fireplace? Odds are that your home has Stinky Fireplace Syndrome. This scent normally is worse in the late spring when the moisture/humidity is high and the climate control system is turned on. This smell can linger in a home. It may appear that all hope is lost, well there is a solution. Before we dive into that, let’s discuss some causes of the chimney odor. Odor Causes There is an abundant assortment of things that cause chimney odors. The most recognized reasons for the smokestack smells are: Negative Air Pressure: air that moves through your chimney; this brings in fireplace smells and chimney odors Excess Creosote & Soot: this odor is often described as a heavy smoky smell Moisture: unless the fireplace is totally closed and...

What the Best Type of Chimney?

There are many types of chimneys that I have yet to talk about and their differences. Three of which people may typically think of when thinking of fireplace, masonry chimneys, metal chimneys, and prefabricated chimneys. However, stove chimneys are their breed, and within each of the categories are subcategories. At its base, all a chimney is a tube up from the box to let out dangerous and possibly harmful fumes. This tube can be called the flue, and the place where the fire is lit is the firebox/fireplace or stove/oven/kiln. The bit extended from the bottom of said part is the hearth when applicable. That’s what Hestia is the Goddess of, as the hearth is often symbolic of the entire home. Masonry Chimneys Masonry chimneys are the most complex and, in some eyes, “the standard chimney,” with the flue being hooked after it passes the lintel. The first thing that may be seen is the chimney damper (Click here to learn more), provided it is a throat damper. Should it be a...

The Birth of the Chimney

Many things reach back further than one may initially think. Respirators, for instance, can trace their lineage back to the first century A.D. Pliny the Elder coming up with the idea to guard roman miners against inhaling load oxide dust by using animal bladders. Chimneys as well trace their lineage to the Romans, as one might expect, for stoves. Industrial Chimneys – The Smokestack The model of chimney used by the Romans was industrial. Used for bread baking, Often we don’t worry about this sort in blogs as they are more for factories, manufacturing plants, etc. Often we think chimney’s purpose is to remove the harmful gasses and smoke produced by machines, fire, and other such things we cannot or should not breathe. This assumption is entirely accurate. However, the thing that makes an industrial chimney industrial is its build and more specific purpose. These chimneys are expected to be constantly working, releasing loads of fumes nearly all the time. Their...

How to Select the Best Chimney Cleaner

It is always a good idea to get your chimney cleaned professionally, rather than do it yourself. Not only do you save time, but you are also assured of a good job done. The best chimney cleaners would have the right credentials in terms of qualification, experience, and testimonials. Best Chimney Cleaner Checklist If you are wondering how to select the best chimney cleaner, here’s what you need to know. The chimney sweep must be experienced in his/her craft. The best chimney cleaners in the business ought to have liability insurance cover. This would ensure that you would get compensated for any inadvertent damage or injury caused while the chimney cleaning is being carried out. It would be a good idea to do a reference check on the person claiming to be among the best chimney cleaners. Ask them for referrals from customers in your town who have been happy with their services. It won’t be prudent on your part to hire anyone who claims to be a well-regarded chimney sweep professional...

How To tell When Your Chimney Needs a Chimney Sweep

There may not be a standard time-frame applicable across chimneys concerning when and how often these need sweeping, but the fact of the matter is that it does need to be done in a timely fashion. Not doing so could result in a house fire. Besides, the heating will not be to your satisfaction. A timely chimney sweep saves loads of trouble and expenses later on. As they say, a stitch in time saves nine! When do you know that it is time for a chimney sweep? One might imagine that one could have some ground rules about determining that it is time for a chimney sweep regarding the number of times a chimney has been used, but things don’t really pan out like that and the reason for that is creosote. Now there is no telling when it will form as it occurs on account of improper burning of wood. If the oxygen supply inside the flue is inadequate, it could lead to a fire which emits a lot of smoke, causing unburned tar vapors to get deposited inside the fireplace flue. This is a dangerous...

How to Find a Chimney Cleaning Service Provider That is Reputable

Having a fireplace and chimney is more than just aesthetics. It comes with some level of responsibility. Unfortunately, a number of homeowners with these structures often do not take such responsibilities seriously until it is often too late or when it is absolutely necessary. It is very important to ensure frequent inspection and maintenance of your fireplace and chimney not only as a safety measure but also because this can spare you future frustrations and expenses of an overhaul or expensive fixes due to extensive damages. Many homeowners looking for chimney cleaning services often face the challenge of identifying a reputable chimney service provider that is professional. Settling on the best chimney sweep is very crucial in your quest for chimney care. Many sweeping companies have sprouted because it does not take much to start one so you must be very careful whom you settle for. Here are a few tips to guide your choice of chimney cleaning service provider. Personable and Easy...

What are Chimney Dampers and How they Save YOU Money!

A small blog on an unsung hero and part of the chimney, the chimney damper. How it’s useful for both your home and your wallet.

Why Does My Fireplace Smoke? Quick Tips For A Smoky Fireplace

  Nothing beats relaxing in front of fire on a chilly night. However, when you’ve got a smoky fireplace the experience is less than relaxing. Fireplace smoke that doesn’t flow properly up through the chimney or flue can be an indication of a serious problem and is a safety issue for your home. Fireplace smoke in the house also can permeate carpeting, furniture and other fabrics causing odors that are hard to remove. Why Does My Fireplace Smoke? The job of a chimney or flue is to facilitate an updraft that pulls the hot gasses and smoke from the fire up and away from the living space. Anytime a chimney or flue fails to pull in the smoke from a fire, the result is fireplace smoke in the house. The reasons for this failure can vary, continue reading to find why your chimney may not be working properly. Green or Wet Firewood It is very important to choose properly seasoned wood to burn in your fireplace or furnace. If your wood is green or wet it will burn slower, less hot,...

The Benefits of giving your Chimney a Chimney Cap

Chimneys are wonderful structures. Unlike fireplaces, they might not add that romantic, aesthetic oomph to a home interior but they do a far more important job. A chimney ensures you and your family’s and your home’s safety. They save you from toxic gases like carbon monoxide and even from fires. Having known this, don’t you agree that they are structures that must be cared for and protected? After all, what you give is what you get (in this case). A protected chimney results in a better functioning chimney. This is where you need a chimney cap or cover. If your chimney does not have one, have it installed. If it is damaged, have it replaced. Chimney caps are highly recommended by chimney professionals for the following key reasons. They Prevent Rainwater From Getting Into the Chimney Liner Rain is a blessing, but not when it sips inside your chimney, for if it does, it becomes a bad thing. If snow, ice, or rainwater drips inside the chimney liner, it causes it to deteriorate very...

Damages Uncovered in Chimney Inspections

Think about your chimney. Do you know the current state of all the components? Do you know where there is damage or breakdown started? What are the signs of serious damage? As the homeowner, you cannot answer these questions with any certainty. To have that certainty, you should call a professional chimney company. Chimneys, especially those connected to a wood-burning fireplace, perform a critical job. These allow interior air to get into the fireplace sustaining fire and providing a channel to draw outside air. A perfectly sound chimney will do this perfectly. If a chimney has issues or damages then it will not operate properly. A chimney that does not work properly can cause damage to your home and those living inside. Below are seven common types of damages found during a chimney inspection. Deterioration of Brick & Mortar Over years of use, the brick and mortar that comprises the chimney structure can begin to deteriorate. Some early signs include cracks and crumbling, which...

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Frequently Asked Questions

If I'm renting an apartment with a fireplace, is it my or my landlords’ responsibility to get my Fireplace cleaned?
This care responsibility should be listed in your lease. If you are not sure, call your landlord, let them know of your concern. A fireplace should be cleaned and inspected at least once a year if used regularly.
How much does a chimney sweep cost?

The smell is because of creosote deposits within the chimney, a natural byproduct of woodburning. The odor is sometimes worse during the summer when the humidity is high the air conditioning is turned on. A typical sweeping will help but usually won’t solve the smell completely. There are commercial chimney deodorants that work well, and plenty of people have good results with kitty litter or maybe baking soda set inside the fireplace. The real problem is that the air being drawn down the chimney, an indication of overall pressure problems within the house. Some make-up air should be introduced someplace else in the house. A good sealing and a top-mounted damper will reduce this air flow coming down the chimney.

What should I do about smoke coming out my fireplace?
Having smoke in your home is serious for your health and you belongings. Modern airtight homes can keep the fire from drawing enough air so It’ll draw air down the chimney and into your home. We can help troubleshoot these problems with you.
Can I clean my fireplace and chimney myself?
Trying to clean your chimney and fireplace yourself can be a very dirty, dangerous and time-consuming task. The tools our technicians use, cannot be bought at your local hardware store. A professional Chimney sweep can find damage that can cause even more problems later. A cleaning and inspection can usually be completed in under an hour, verses trying to tackle the job yourself, could take an entire weekend. Call us today, and schedule with pro.

Nice people with great company. Answered the first ring in the office, came out that weekend, and fixed my leak the same day as inspection/cleaning. overall an A+ experience.

– Phil Gillis

We are experienced

We Have Over 30 Years of Experience in The Industry

With an ever-growing team, the experience of the Sootmaster company grows as well. For Over 30 years, Sootmaster has focused on perfecting their work on chimney and fireplace systems. We have many professionally trained technicians who are prepared and eager to assist you with any problem your chimney and fireplace might present, from standard sweeps to ground-up installations, Sootmaster’s expert technicians can get the job done.

Check Your Calendar

The National Fire Protection Association recommends having your chimney professionally cleaned and inspected at least once a year. If you’ve gone a year or more without having your chimney checked out, it’s best to go ahead and make an appointment with your local chimney sweep. Experienced chimney technicians like the ones at Sootmaster will make sure your chimney is clean and working properly.

Fireplace Odors

Do you have unpleasant smells coming from your fireplace? It’s most likely due to a buildup of soot and creosote, which are byproducts of burning wood. Creosote can stick to the walls of your chimney and is the leading cause of chimney fires.

Black Spots on Fireplace Walls

Have you noticed a black, oily substance on the walls of your fireplace? This is a buildup of creosote and can be removed by a chimney technician. It is important to remove creosote to prevent chimney fires. 

Weak Fires

If it’s difficult to start a fire in your fireplace, your chimney could be clogged. Poorly burning fires can also be a result of a malfunctioning damper. Both issues restrict the amount of oxygen that reaches your fire, stopping it from burning properly. These problems can be fixed by a knowledgeable chimney technician.

Animals In Your Chimney

Animals and animal nests can restrict the flow of air in your chimney or even catch fire. If you hear noises coming from your chimney or notice nests on top of it, call your local chimney sweep to have the animals safely removed. 

5 Signs You Need Your Chimney Cleaned

Being a homeowner comes with a long to-do list. From home improvement projects to daily upkeep, there’s probably a lot on your mind when it comes to your home. However, the last thing that may come to mind is one of the most important: your chimney. Just like the rest of your home, your chimney and fireplace need regular cleaning and maintenance to work properly. Keeping your chimney clean is also the best way to prevent chimney fires. Look out for these five signs it’s time to have your chimney professionally cleaned.

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