The easiest creosote to remove is the feather-light dull gray, brown or black soot. The next form is ... Have the necessary tools for this chimney cleaning DIY project lined up before you start ...

Signs your chimney needs cleaning to prevent a fire include: Strong smoky odors, even when the fireplace is not in use Excessive soot buildup inside or around the chimney Difficulty starting or ...

Call a certified chimney sweep. If you decide you can handle ... flue and use the poker to scratch the surface. If the soot has a matte black finish and the scratch is 1/8 in.