Business Details
44 Years
experience
Expert Chimney & Fireplace Services in Bay Area
At The Irish Sweep, we have dedicated ourselves to chimney and fireplace excellence since 1982. Our founder, Sally McKnight, brings over four decades of hands-on experience in fireplace safety and chimney maintenance, establishing us as trusted Bay Area specialists. We combine advanced techniques like camera inspections with time-tested craftsmanship to deliver comprehensive solutions for chimney cleaning, repairs, and fireplace upgrades. Our team holds multiple industry certifications, including Chimney Safety Institute of America credentials and California State Contractor licenses, ensuring every service meets rigorous safety standards.We prioritize client education, transparent communication, and seismic safety expertise tailored to Northern California's unique requirements. With a three-year warranty on all installations and repairs, we stand behind our work while maintaining strict adherence to national fire protection codes and insurance requirements.
Services
Chimney Cleaning
Camera Inspections
Masonry Repairs
Fireplace Inserts
Dryer Vent Cleaning
Chimney Removal
Dampers Installation
Flue Caps
Wood Burning Inserts
Seismic Reinforcement
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of Bay Area chimney expertise
- CSIA-certified technicians with multiple industry licenses
- Three-year warranty on all repair work
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Specialized seismic safety assessments
Associations and certifications
- Chimney Safety Institute of America
- California State Contractors License #564792
- C29 Masonry License
- C61/D34 Specialty License
- National Fire Protection Association
- International Residential Code
What people say
Prompt service
Expertise
Thorough inspections
Competitive pricing
Reliable professionals
Services
Chimney Cleaning
Our professional chimney cleaning service removes dangerous creosote buildup and debris from residential chimney systems. Using advanced equipment and techniques, we ensure proper ventilation while preventing fire hazards and carbon monoxide risks. Our CSIA-certified technicians follow strict safety protocols to maintain optimal fireplace performance and indoor air quality for Bay Area homeowners.
Camera Inspections
We utilize high-resolution camera technology to conduct comprehensive chimney inspections. This non-invasive method allows us to identify structural issues, liner damage, and blockages with precision. Our detailed visual assessments help homeowners understand their chimney's condition while providing documentation for insurance or resale purposes in earthquake-prone Northern California.
Fireplace Inserts
Our team specializes in installing energy-efficient wood-burning fireplace inserts that enhance heating performance while maintaining aesthetic appeal. We offer custom solutions for unique fireplace configurations, including proper sizing, venting, and seismic reinforcement to meet California building codes and safety standards for residential heating systems.
Masonry Repairs
We provide comprehensive masonry repair services addressing cracked bricks, deteriorated mortar, and structural damage in chimney systems. Our licensed technicians use traditional techniques combined with modern materials to restore chimney integrity while preventing water intrusion and ensuring long-term durability in Bay Area climates.
Dryer Vent Cleaning
Our dryer vent cleaning service removes lint buildup and debris from residential dryer exhaust systems. This essential maintenance prevents fire hazards, improves appliance efficiency, and extends equipment lifespan. We use specialized tools to thoroughly clean vents while minimizing disruption to homeowners' living spaces.
People
Sally McKnight
Owner
Sally McKnight has been a dedicated chimney professional since 1982, earning recognition for her expertise in fireplace and chimney systems. Certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America, she combines technical knowledge with practical experience to lead The Irish Sweep's team of licensed technicians in delivering comprehensive chimney services.
Questions
What chimney services do you offer?
We provide comprehensive chimney services including cleaning, inspections, masonry repairs, fireplace insert installations, dryer vent cleaning, and seismic reinforcement. Our CSIA-certified technicians handle all aspects of chimney maintenance and safety.
Are your technicians certified?
Yes, our team holds multiple certifications including Chimney Safety Institute of America credentials and California State Contractor licenses for masonry and metal work.
Do you offer emergency services?
While we don't provide 24/7 emergency services, we prioritize urgent requests and offer prompt scheduling for critical chimney issues affecting home safety.
What areas do you serve?
We serve the entire Bay Area including Oakland, Alameda, Berkeley, San Francisco, San Lorenzo, Richmond, and El Cerrito.
Do you provide warranties?
Yes, we offer a three-year warranty on all repair and installation work, demonstrating our confidence in the quality of our services.
How often should chimneys be cleaned?
The National Fire Protection Association recommends annual inspections and cleaning as needed, though usage frequency and fuel type may affect maintenance schedules.
