FAQ
Questions homeowners ask
Pricing & Quotes
- How much does a chimney sweep cost?
- Our standard chimney sweep and cleaning starts at $89.99 for an open masonry fireplace in normal condition. Heavy or glazed creosote is priced after inspection and quoted before we begin.
- Is the $89.99 price for all services?
- No. It applies to a standard chimney sweep and cleaning only. Repairs, caps, crowns, flashing, masonry and rebuild work are priced from our rate table or after an on-site inspection.
- Do you charge for a repair quote?
- No. Shield Master provides a free initial inspection and evaluation before performing applicable repair, restoration, fireplace or masonry work, so you see the visible condition, the recommended solution, the scope and the price before you decide. Dedicated inspection products — real-estate transaction inspections and specialized Level 2 or Level 3 inspections — are separate priced services.
- Why can't you quote a rebuild over the phone?
- Rebuild pricing depends on course count, access, brick match and structural condition. We inspect on site, then provide a written scope.
Safety
- How do I know if I had a chimney fire?
- Signs include a loud cracking or roaring sound, dense smoke, puffy or honeycombed black flakes, cracked flue tiles, and discolored or warped metal. Stop using the fireplace and get a Level 2 inspection before burning again.
- Will you tell me my chimney is safe to use?
- We report and photograph what we observed, explain the risks in plain language, and recommend repairs. We do not issue blanket safety guarantees — no honest company can.
- Is carbon monoxide a real risk with a fireplace?
- Yes. Blocked flues, disconnected connectors and improper venting can push combustion gases into the home. Working CO detectors on every level are essential.
- What should I never burn?
- Treated or painted lumber, trash, cardboard, wrapping paper, Christmas trees and wet wood. All of them accelerate creosote or release harmful gases.
Service & Scheduling
- How often should my chimney be inspected?
- Annually, and more often if you burn frequently. An inspection catches water damage and buildup before it becomes structural.
- How long does a sweep take?
- A standard sweep is typically 45–90 minutes depending on flue length, buildup and access.
- Will you make a mess in my house?
- No. We lay drop cloths and run a sealed vacuum during the entire sweep. Cleanup is part of the job.
- What areas do you serve?
- The Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. Our service-areas page lists the cities we currently cover; call if you do not see yours.
Shield Master AI
- What does the AI chimney scan actually do?
- It reviews the photos you upload and describes possible visible conditions, then maps them to the matching service and its price from our rate table. It cannot see inside the flue and it never declares a chimney safe.
- Are my photos private?
- Yes. Uploaded photos go to private storage that only Shield Master staff can access. They are never published to our gallery without your permission.
- Does the AI make up prices?
- No. Every price it shows is pulled from our published rate table. If a service requires an on-site inspection, it says so instead of guessing.