Sweep a wood-burning fireplace flue and select the correct creosote removal method by creosote stage

Steps

1. Perform a visual/camera inspection of the flue before sweeping to characterize the creosote present, using industry-standard stage terminology (first-, second-, and third-degree, sometimes called flaky, tar/bubbly, and glazed) as a practical severity guide rather than a formal NFPA classification
2. For first-degree (light, flaky, sooty) creosote, remove with standard rotary or poly brushes sized to the flue
3. For second-degree (tar-like, bubbly, or crunchy) creosote, use more aggressive mechanical tools (rotary whips, chains, or scrapers) matched to the liner material to avoid damaging clay tile or metal liners
4. For third-degree (glazed, shiny, resin-like) creosote, recognize that standard brushing is generally insufficient and plan for chemical creosote modification and/or specialized mechanical removal before re-inspecting
5. Re-inspect (visually or via camera) after sweeping to confirm the flue surface and joints are clean and undamaged before returning the system to service
6. Document creosote severity, method used, and post-sweep condition in the service report for liability and NFPA 211 Level I documentation purposes