SigMT

TEXT BY HOLLY MATKIN WORKING LIFE A Day in the Life of a URBAN AFFAIRS S MT PHOTOGRAPHER SARA YOUNG A nyone who has spent time cozied up around a wood or pellet-burning fire knows that nothing matches their enveloping warmth and nostalgia. But keeping your stove running safely and cleanly involves more than just tossing another log onto the fire. Clean Slate Chimney Service owner Chris Pearson has spent over a decade helping keep Montana residents safe from the potential hazards associated with their kitchen exhaust systems and fireplaces. "Wood and pellets make a physical effluent that needs to be removed to operate safely," Chris explains. "A chimney sweep removes that creosote buildup from the inner walls of the fireplace, as well as from the roof cap and chimney to help prevent fires and possible damage." Chris uses two layers of protection and a vacuum to stop the blackened grime from dirtying up his clients' homes while he works. He then runs a drill-operated whip throughout the system, knocking down the creosote buildup so he can whisk it away. Chris also climbs onto the roof to inspect flashings and chimney caps to ensure everything is undamaged and in good working condition. "If there's a problem, we point it out," he says, noting that the most common issue is a complete lack of a cap. "If you get any water in the masonry work, it will cause problems and deterioration over time." In addition to sweeps, Clean Slate Chimney Service provides masonry repair services and wood stove installation. Cleaning up all that black, clinging soot can be a dirty job, but it is also one Chris finds very rewarding. "We're providing a service that can potentially save property and lives," he says. "If you maintain the systems in your house or business that have the potential to do harm and stay on top of the maintenance schedule, you've done your part." Wood and pellet-burning stoves should be inspected and swept at least annually. "I'm grateful to the Great Falls community for how well- received we've been," Chris says. "We're thrilled that so many people have been choosing us." Call (406) 750-4311 to schedule an appointment with Clean Slate Chimney Service, or send them a message on their Facebook page. SiG MT 18 Chimney Sweep Protecting customers' homes and families is all in a day's work. Chris Pearson is your local fireplace and chimney safety expert.

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