Many chimneys must have a cleanout. This is a metal door on the flue that's at least a foot lower than the lowest combustion area. Although a fireplace can also serve as a cleanout in some areas, a wood stove needs a cleanout below the area where the stovepipe enters the flue.
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If you don't clean your chimney regularly, soot will accumulate around the flue causing an inability to draw smoke upwards. The smoke will then be directed to your room leaving black soot on the walls
Will Chimney Sweeping Make a Mess? Sweeping a chimney is a very messy job. If you're not careful, it can even cause damage to flooring and furniture. But of course, a professional Master chimney sweep
Make sure your fireplace is cool. Remove any logs in the firebox. Put away any decorative elements. Remove objects like furniture or toys that are blocking access to the fireplace.