A clean chimney is the difference between a fireplace and a fire hazard.

Most chimneys should be swept at least once a year, per CSIA and NFPA guidelines. If you burn frequently or notice creosote buildup reaching roughly 1/8 inch on the flue walls, schedule a cleaning sooner — that level of buildup becomes a fire risk.

Cost varies by the size of the chimney, how long it has been since the last cleaning, and how much creosote has accumulated. We quote exactly what you pay — no surprises added at the door.

A standard chimney sweep typically takes up to 90 minutes. During the visit, we protect your home with drop cloths, use targeted dust control during cleaning, and perform a thorough inspection of your chimney system. We also provide a clear before-and-after review so you understand exactly what was removed and the condition of your chimney before we leave.

Key warning signs include a strong smoky or oily smell near the fireplace, smoke entering the room when a fire is burning, a black or oily residue on the damper or firebox walls, and poor draft. If you see or smell any of these, book an inspection before your next fire.

A Level 1 inspection covers accessible areas with no special equipment — the minimum for a chimney in routine use. Level 2 includes a video scan of the flue interior; it is required when buying or selling a home or after any unusual event. Level 3 involves opening up the structure and is reserved for serious damage or hazards. ARC performs Level 2 video inspections as a standard part of every sweep.

Yes. We humanely remove birds, squirrels, raccoons, and other wildlife from chimneys and follow every removal with an exclusion install — a cap or custom barrier — so animals cannot re-enter.

Every ARC technician is CSIA Certified, and the company holds NFI Hearth Specialist credentials, full liability insurance and licensing in all five states we serve, and a BBB A+ rating. Every tech arrives in uniform with an ID badge.

We serve customers across Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi — dozens of cities across five states, including Atlanta, Pensacola, Mobile, New Orleans, and Biloxi. See the Service Areas section of this page for the full city list.

Creosote is a combustible residue that forms when wood smoke cools against the flue walls. It builds up in three stages: a loose, brushable deposit (Stage 1); a harder, tar-like coating (Stage 2); and a glazed, extremely flammable crust (Stage 3). Stage 3 creosote is the leading cause of chimney fires. Annual sweeping keeps buildup from progressing past Stage 1.

Masonry chimneys are porous, and water intrusion is the most common cause of long-term chimney damage — cracked mortar, spalled bricks, and interior leaks. Waterproofing with a vapor-permeable sealant system stops water from entering while still allowing the chimney to breathe. It is especially important in climates with heavy rain or freeze-thaw cycles, which describes most of our five-state service area.