HIGH STAKE SWEEPS

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Most sweeps, however, prefer to work with a brush fitted to the end of a rod. This system allows one to work either from the rooftop or from inside the house, provided there is adequate clearance for entry of the rod (the highly flexible fiberglass lets the extension rod angle rather sharply into and up a flue).

Assuming that the brush is of the correct size for the chimney being cleaned (an eight-inch flue calls for an eight-inch metal brush . . . but, if you're using a flexible plastic brush, it might be wise to use a size larger than your flue), it is merely worked slowly through the chimney . . . either from the top down or the bottom up. As the brush progresses, it should be worked in short, up-and-down scrubbing strokes, with a pause at the end of the downward stroke to allow time for loosened debris to fall. Additional extension rods are screwed on as needed until the brush emerges from the top of the chimney or strikes the bottom.

The flex in the rods allows the brush to be worked around most slight angles and jogs in the flue, but in especially tortuous chimneys a plumber's snake may have to be employed. Most sweeps recommend steel brushes over the cheaper plastic versions and, although they generally work with 0.48-inch-diameter fiberglass rods, the homeowner should be wellserved with the less expensive 0.35-inch rods.

Brushes—round, square, and rectangular—can be ordered to fit most chimneys, but if the exact size needed is not available, the next size larger should be chosen (one-quarter to one-half inch of excess bristle length will cause no major problems).

Steps should be taken to assure that dislodged creosote, soot, ash, and dust are kept from entering the house. If an open fireplace is being cleaned from the top, its damper should be shut tightly, and if this seems insufficient, a sheet or a piece of paper can be taped over the mouth of the fireplace. A closed airtight stove will contain any clouds of dust, but if the stove has been disconnected for cleaning, the wall exit should be stuffed with paper to seal the flue from the interior of the house. (It's also advisable to wear a piece of cheesecloth—or other material—over your nose and mouth while working to reduce the chance of inhaling the carcinogenic dust.)

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