Chimney Sweep Information

James the Sweep’s info ‘hub’ gives all you need to know about every aspect of the chimney sweeping trade. You can read about the history of the profession and even get advice about sweeping your own chimney. It’s also a FREE resource for you to use – and I welcome any suggestions or comments. Contact me by phone (01892 548399), email (info@jamesthesweep.co.uk) or use the chimney sweep enquiry form.

Frequently asked questions

Do you have questions about your chimney, or your fireplace or stove? Customers often have similar queries so James the Sweep has put together a general Q&A to help you. Click here to view the most commonly asked questions I’ve heard about chimneys and the sweeping process. And if your question is specific, get in touch to receive free advice!

The history of chimney sweeping

The history of sweeping chimneys is a narrative, which is both fascinating and rich. Take a tea break in the midst of your busy day, sit back, and let me take you through the absorbing story about this wonderful industry, born after the invention of the humble chimney.

Child sweeps: a poignant tale

Youngsters were tragically used to sweep chimneys for at least 200 years in Britain before the law changed. It beggars belief. Find out more about child chimney sweeps in the Victorian era.

Burn wood, not cash! Buying a wood burning stove

Find comprehensive info about wood burning stoves: How to get the most out of them, both practically and financially.

Keep a wood stove burning safely

Here are tips on top methods to maintain your wood stove for creating safe fires, and to get the best use for your household.

Choosing the right wood to burn

Any old material which burns is suitable for an indoor fire, right? No! Please don’t do that! Find details on different wood types for your stove or open fire. This info is likely to save you money and help you create tailor-made fires in the comfort of your own home.

Buying fuel for your woodburning stove

Should you buy Green Logs, Kiln Dried, or burn old Pallets? All you need to know about cost effective purchases for your woodburning stove.

Maximising wood burning efficiency

This is all about getting the most for your money, which helps your household’s finances. It’s a helpful guide on how to burn wood efficiently and avoid burning through your cash instead.

Being environmentally friendly

Protecting the environment is a major concern and rightly so. Here you’ll find information about being ‘green’ when using your chimney set-up.

All about chimney lining

Information about why you would line a chimney flue and how to choose the right chimney lining.

Safety: Preventing chimney fires and information about carbon monoxide

Keeping safe is a priority – here’s essential info about taking precautions with your fire. Please read and contact me with any questions.

Chimney cowls

Cowls are a great tool to encourage the safe emission of smoke and dangerous gas via the chimney, preventing downdraught. Here’s the lowdown on cowls – some points may be new to you!

DIY chimney sweep costume

Soot-up by using my easy-to-read guide about how to easily make a traditional chimney sweep costume for yourself!

How to clean your own chimney

For the safety for your family, always use a professional chimney sweep to clean your chimney. However, if you’d like to know, here is a basic how-to guide about how a simple sweep is carried out!

Chimney sweep brushes

If you do decide to sweep your own chimney (not recommended), here are pointers about the best brushes to buy.

Chimney sweep training and courses

Does the idea of becoming a chimney sweep appeal to you? It’s the very best of occupations! Here is a list of all the training options currently available in the UK.