The tradition of Chimney Sweeps kissing the bride and shaking the groom's hand for good luck started about 200 years ago after a London chimney sweep saved the life of King George III.

This means there's no risk of any dust or soot making its way into the room, but you should also expect clean sheets to be placed over any soft furnishings which can't be moved. The vacuums used by chimney sweep teams are designed specifically for the fine dust particles which usually escape during a sweep.

Chimney Inspection and Cleaning The chimney technician will inspect and prepare the area for proper sweeping by spreading a plastic down or drop cloth. Your expert will then use a long, heavy, metal bristle brush to scrape at the dirty chimney lining.

A chimney professional can check your chimney and may recommend the use of a chemical chimney cleaning product, if needed to facilitate future cleaning. If so, ask him or her about operating procedures that will help you burn wood in your fireplace or wood stove without forming excessive creosote.