I used to think a stiff brush was the only way to clean a flue

For years, I'd just shove a big wire brush up there and scrub until my arms hurt. Then, about six months ago, I saw a guy at a job in Asheville using a flexible rod system with a whip head. He said it got the corners better and was easier on the masonry. I tried it on my next job and it cut my time by almost half. Anyone else switch up their main cleaning method and have it work out like that?

3 comments

3 Comments

bailey.jennifer2d ago

That flexible rod system is a total game changer for older chimneys. The whip head gets into the mortar joints and those weird angles a stiff brush just glides right over. It feels like you're actually cleaning the whole flue, not just the easy middle part. My only tip is to go slow on the first pass to feel for any loose tiles or big cracks. Once you get the rhythm down, it's so much smoother on your shoulders too.

ward.anna2d ago

Slow and steady wins the race for sure. Rushing just leaves creosote in the joints and you have to go back anyway. Finding those hidden cracks on the first gentle pass saves a ton of headache later. It turns a tough job into something you can actually finish right the first time. That shoulder relief is a huge bonus nobody talks about enough.

jessem592d ago

Nice. How many passes do you usually end up doing with that whip head?