Business Details
44 Years
experience
Expert Chimney & Fireplace Services in Bay Area, CA
Founded in 1982, The Irish Sweep has been a trusted provider of professional chimney and fireplace services in the Bay Area. Our team, led by owner Sally McKnight, brings decades of expertise in chimney cleaning, inspections, and fireplace installations, prioritizing safety and structural integrity. Certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America and holding multiple state licenses, we adhere to national standards like the National Fire Protection Association and International Residential Code.Our mission is to educate homeowners on fireplace safety while delivering reliable, transparent service. With a three-year warranty on repairs and installations, we ensure customer satisfaction through meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to exceeding industry benchmarks.
Services
Chimney Cleaning
Fireplace Inspections
Wood Burning Inserts
Masonry Repairs
Dryer Vent Cleaning
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of experience in chimney safety and fireplace maintenance.
- Our team holds certifications from the Chimney Safety Institute of America.
- We provide transparent assessments without unnecessary repairs or upselling.
- We adhere to national standards including NFPA and International Residential Code.
- We protect our work with liability insurance and a three-year warranty.
Associations and certifications
- Chimney Safety Institute of America
- California State Contractors License #564792
- C29 Masonry License
- C61/D34 Specialty License
What people say
Thorough inspections
Spotless cleanup
Competitive pricing
Expertise since 1982
Timely service
Services
Chimney Cleaning
Regular chimney cleaning removes creosote buildup, ash, and debris to prevent fire hazards and carbon monoxide risks. Our technicians use advanced tools to ensure thorough cleaning while protecting your home from dust. Proper maintenance extends chimney lifespan and ensures safe fireplace operation.
Fireplace Inspections
Professional inspections assess chimney structural integrity, liner condition, and seismic safety. We use camera technology to document issues and provide repair recommendations. Annual inspections meet NFPA and CSIA safety standards for optimal fireplace performance.
Wood Burning Inserts
We install energy-efficient wood burning inserts that convert open fireplaces into safer, eco-friendly heating systems. Custom fitting ensures proper ventilation and aesthetic integration. Inserts reduce emissions while maximizing heat retention for improved home comfort.
Masonry Repairs
Our licensed masons repair damaged chimney bricks and mortar to restore structural stability. Repointing and reinforcement prevent water intrusion and earthquake-related hazards. Timely repairs avoid costly full chimney replacements while maintaining fireplace functionality.
Dryer Vent Cleaning
Cleaning dryer vents removes lint buildup that causes fire risks and reduces appliance efficiency. Our CSIA-certified technicians ensure proper airflow to extend dryer lifespan and lower energy costs for residential and commercial clients.
People
Sally McKnight
Owner
Sally McKnight has been a dedicated chimney professional since 1982. Certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America, she specializes in fireplace safety, seismic reinforcement, and energy-efficient installations. Her expertise in masonry and metalwork licenses ensures comprehensive solutions for Bay Area homeowners.
Questions
What services does The The Irish Sweep offer?
We provide chimney cleaning, fireplace inspections, wood burning insert installations, masonry repairs, and dryer vent cleaning across the Bay Area.
Are your technicians certified?
Yes, our team holds certifications from the Chimney Safety Institute of America and maintains multiple state-issued licenses for masonry and metalwork.
How often should chimneys be cleaned?
The NFPA and CSIA recommend annual inspections and cleaning to maintain safety and efficiency for all fireplace types.
Do you offer emergency services?
We provide consultations but currently do not conduct on-site visits during government-mandated stay-at-home orders.
What areas do you serve?
We operate throughout the Bay Area, including Oakland, Alameda, San Francisco, Berkeley, and surrounding communities.
What warranties do you provide?
We offer a three-year warranty on all repair and installation work, backed by liability insurance and professional certifications.
