Absolute Chimney
and Dryer Vent
About
Matt Bonafair has been proudly working as a chimney sweep and fireplace specialist, since 1994.
First learning the trade while apprenticing under his Uncle in Harrisburg PA., Matt was then lucky enough to continue working as a full time sweep, performing the trade as he traveled.
Living in 3 different cities over the years was an opportunity for learning the various construction and repair techniques, as well as service practices, of chimney sweep professionals, on both sides of the country.
Settling in Austin TX in 2003, Matt started Absolute Chimney and has been providing quality service, and repairs to the Austin and the surrounding area ever since.
Absolute Chimney uses our years of expertise and proven methods to ensure safety for your family, and we continue learning the new methods, and technology of the industry.
We look forward to helping you with your chimney and fireplace maintenance needs.
Cheers!
Expert Services
We service the entire Austin area, and surrounding areas, including Pflugerville, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander, Georgetown, Manor, Kyle, and Buda.
Services Include
Chimney Sweep
Dryer Vent Sweep
Caps
Dampers
Stainless Steel Liners
Firebox Repairs
Refractory Panels
Complete Chimney and Flue Replacement
Crown Rebuilds
Gas Log Installation
Direct Vent Fireplace Repairs and Parts
Custom Parts
FAQs
How often should I have my chimney swept?
A good rule of thumb, is after burning a cord of wood
Will my house get dirty when the chimney is swept?
No, we use a high powered vacuum, with a specially designed filter made for collecting fine soot particles.
I've never used my fireplace, is it safe to use?
If you have just purchased a home, it is a good idea to have the chimney inspected by a professional. The chimney may have a dangerous creosote build up, or damage that could lead to a chimney fire.
Can animals get in my chimney, if I don't have a cap?
Absolutely! A chimney cap keeps out animals, and the rain. Both can lead to costly chimney repair.
Chimney Terms
Creosote
Smoke and gas are released by the initial fire in your fireplace. Flue gas consists of steam, and vaporized but unburned carbon based by-products (vaporized creosote). As gases exits the fireplace, it drafts upward into the relatively cool flue where condensation occurs. Like hot breath on a cold surface, the cool surface temperature of the flue causes the carbon particles in the warm vapor to solidify. The actual cause of creosote condensation, is the surface temperature of the flue in which the flue gas comes in contact. This resulting carbon based condensation which materializes inside the flue is creosote. It can be the fine black dust called 1st stage creosote, 2nd stage , which is porous and crunchy, 3rd stage which is tar-like ( drippy and sticky until it hardens into a shiny glaze)
All forms of creosote can occur in one chimney system. Whatever form it takes, creosote is highly combustible. If it builds up in sufficient quantities – and ignites inside the chimney flue and the end result is a chimney fire.
For More Info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Creosote
Firebox
This is where you actually start your fire.
A firebox, could be made from fire brick, steel, or be a prefabricated manufactured firebox, with “refractory panel” sides.
Chimney Flue
This is the “exhaust pipe” located inside your chimney chase.
A chimney flue can be made from terra cotta tile or stainless steel pipe. In cases of older homes, builders would parge the brick walls with mortar, to make a smooth surface.
Damper
The damper door is a cast iron, or steel plate, with an axle, that can be opened and closed. It is used to block off the firebox from the flue, when the fireplace is not in use. This helps in keeping heat and AC in your home.
Chimney Cap
The chimney cap is a steel lid, usually with a spark arresting screen around it. It allows smoke out of the flue, but keeps birds and rain out.
Custom Parts
We can build custom parts including caps and dampers to fit any chimney and fireplace.
