Sweeping Magazine- December 2014

Sweeping

December 2014 VOLUME 38 #11

The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology

Good Service Is Your Best Marketing ‘Tis the Season for Good Practices

Meet a Member: Cary Freeman The Shepherdess and the Chimney Sweep

Join us February 18– 21 at the Marriott on Penn Square in Lancaster, PA for the best 4 days in the chimney and venting industry!

From the opening party to the closing banquet the National Chimney Sweep Guild National Convention is jam-packed with learning, networking, and fun!

December 2014 Volume 38 #11

Table of Contents Features P.14

14 Good Service Is Still Your Best Marketing 16 Tis the Season for Best Practices 21 Meet a Member: Cary Freeman — New!

P.16

Departments 3 President’s Report P.17

6 Editor’s Letter 8 Tech Q&A 11 Sweeps Advantage 12 Coach’s Corner 17 History Project 20 Progressive Perks

P.21 Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology (ISSN# 10416692) is published 11 times annually, by the National Chimney Sweep Guild, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168.

Annual dues to the National Chimney Sweep Guild are $479 for Voting Member Companies and $689 for Supplier Member Companies, of which $80 goes toward a subscription to Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology. Additional annual subscriptions are available for $80 by contacting the National Chimney Sweep Guild at the office of publication (NCSG, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168).

30 Dates and Events 34 Around the Tech Center 35 Classifieds 35 Darwin Awards 36 Humor

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168 DECEMBER 14 SWEEPING 1

ResourcePage

NATIONAL CHIMNEY SWEEP GUILD

Committee Chairs and Task Forces for 2014 – 2015 Bylaws

Government Affairs

NFPA 211 Representative

Jeremy Biswell (913) 236-7141 fluesbrothers@yahoo.com

Phil Mitchell (603) 659-7776 sootski@aol.com

Jim Brewer (757) 523-2400 jbrewer@magic-sweep.com

Convention Site Selection

International Relations

NFPA 31 Representative

Diane Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneygal@aol.com

John Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneyman@aol.com

John Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneyman@aol.com

Ethics

Long Range Planning

NFPA 54

Andy Raycroft (703) 836-7858 randy@rooftopchimneysweeps.com

Jeremy Biswell (913) 236-7141 fluesbrothers@yahoo.com

Jim Brewer (757) 523-2400 jbrewer@magic-sweep.com

Governance

Membership

Technical Advisory Council

Jay Walker (850) 562-4692 sweepingJ@aol.com

Bob Ferrari (530) 221-3331 bob@flueseason.com

Michael Segerstrom (908) 253-9190 chimneysweeps@optonline.net

NCSG BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2014-2015 President Jeremy Biswell (913) 236-7141 fluesbrothers@yahoo.com At-Large Director Diane Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneygal@aol.com Treasurer, Region 3 Ron Rust (803) 730-5858 tophatswp@aol.com Vice President, Region 5 Jasper Drengler (715) 304-8934 drengler01@gmail.com Region 1 Phil Mitchell (603) 659-7776 sootski@aol.com Region 2 Vacant

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COUNCIL To contact any member of the Technical Advisory Council, please call (317) 203-0088 and select the extension for the person who is best qualified to answer your question: Chris Prior Masonry Construction and Restoration and Priorfire Fireboxes (317) 203-0088 x: 2 Jim Brewer Gas Venting and NFPA 54 (317) 203-0088 x: 3 John Pilger Oil Flue Sizing, Relining or NFPA 31 (317) 203-0088 x: 4 Randy Brooks IRC, NFPA 211 or Customer Communications (317) 203-0088 x: 5 Bart Ogden Stainless Steel Lining, Video Scanning and Narrative Report Writing (317) 203-0088 x: 6

Fred Joy Installation and Venting of Pellet Stoves (317) 203-0088 x: 7

Region 6 Bob Ferrari (530) 941-5818 bob@flueseason.com

Jay Walker Dryer Vents (317) 203-0088 x: 8

Secretary Gregg Boss (636) 391-2226

Rett Rasmussen Vented and Vent Free Gas Logs and Controls (317) 203-0088 x: 9

englishsweep@att.net

Rich Martinez Dryer Vents or Masonry (317) 203-0088 x: * Rich Rua General Sweeping or Relining (317) 203-0088 x: 0

Be advised that advice given by NCSG’s Technical Advisory Council (TAC) reflects best practices of the chimney sweeping industry. However, we are unable to account for any particular type of situation since regional variations in construction practices and additional environmental, physical and geographical factors necessarily vary the level of service appropriate for a particular fireplace and/or chimney. Additionally, local laws and ordinances may govern and/or supersede the information and any recommendations provided. Final determinations are the responsibility of a local professional with firsthand knowledge of the situation, and the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Neither NCSG nor any member of TAC will be held liable for any damages whatsoever resulting from the use of or reliance on information provided by anyone associated with TAC. By your use of this member benefit you acknowledge acceptance of these terms.

ADVERTISING RATES for Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney & Venting Technology may be obtained by contacting Malisa Minetree at (317) 815-4688 or sweepingads@me.com

NCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases and articles to editor Darcy Marlett at dmarlett@ncsg.org.

Submissions should contain items of interest or importance to the chimney and venting industry. Submissions should not contain direct solicitations, prices, or a call to action on the part of our readers. Submissions may contain images or artwork attached in a .jpg format.

In all cases, NCSG reserves the right to edit submissions to fit space limitations, keep the release and publish at a later date, or refuse to publish the release for any reason. Neither publishing, nor refusing to publish the submission should be considered a statement of NCSG’s opinion regarding the release.

NCSG further reserves the right to reject at any time any advertising determined not to be in keeping with the publication’s standards. Acceptance of advertising by Sweeping magazine does not necessarily constitute endorsement of products or services advertised. NCSG does not make any effort to review or substantiate claims made by advertisers. © 2014 National Chimney Sweep Guild, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168. (317) 837-1500

2 SWEEPING DECEMBER 14

Region 4 Kevon Binder Jr. (517) 423-2832 kevon@drflue.com

At-Large Director Fred Joy (785) 986-6432 joyfredm@live.com Supplier Representative Edmund Poplawski (570) 504-7107 epoplawski@olympiachimney.com

STAFF 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168 (317) 837-1500 Fax: (317) 837-5365 Frances Kelly Excecutive Director fkelly@ncsg.org Megan McMahon Director of Finance mmcmahon@ncsg.org Debbie Cornelius Membership Development Coordinator dcornelius@ncsg.org Donna Lee Kasmer CSIA Certification Coordinator dkasmer@csia.org Claire Rutledge Program Coordinator crutledge@ncsg.org

Darcy Marlett Director of Communications and Marketing dmarlett@ncsg.org Tom Spalding CSIA Director of Communications and Marketing tspalding@csia.org Ashley Edridge Director of Education ashley@csia.org Sara Sichting Office Manager ssichting@ncsg.org

JEREMY BISWELL NCSG PRESIDENT

President’s Report

It has been a stellar year so far…

H

ere I sit on the couch with my wife writing this Sweeping president’s letter. I am reflecting on what a great year we have had this year. I am also glad to hear the same from our NCSG membership.

While working on the never ending pile of work on my desk the other day, our neighbor from across the street came walking through my shop door. Wes is 87 years old and is the longtime owner of one of the nation’s first digital drive-in theatre. The very drive in I have been turning left in front of for the past ten years to get to my shop. After owning our shop for 10 years, this is the first time I can remember Wes walking through my front door.

I instantly dropped my work to greet Wes and make sure all is well. Wes said all is peachy, he was just a bit bored (summer is the drive-ins busy season). The office girls were getting ready for lunch, so I asked Wes if he’d eaten lunch or would at least like a cup of coffee. Wes informed me that he was there to invite me to lunch!

Now, when an 87 year old local icon asks you to lunch, you snag that opportunity. I pushed my work aside and grabbed my jacket. Wes insisted we take his car and off we went.

said he had been eating lunch here for more years than he can remember. Usually he has the hamburger, but he’s been pleased with the hot roast beef sandwich lately. “They only offer it at lunch” Wes said.

I began to ask Wes about his life and business. Wes has been part of the Boulevard drive in for over 60 years. Most of that time, he has ran the drive in with a mixture of staff and family. Over the last few years, his grandson has partnered with him, so that has helped the business stay strong and evolve even more.

When I asked him how he has managed to stay in business that long, he responded you have to love what you do and have

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Our dining experience took place at the small diner down the boulevard called Dagwoods. From the moment we walked through the door, Wes was greeted with smiles and hellos. Instead of sitting down at an empty table, we sat at one of the larger tables with a random array of characters from all walks of life.

Everyone smiled and shook my hand.

The waitress took my drink order and asked what I would like to eat. I asked Wes if he would like to order first and the waitress snickered and said that there is no need for that, she knows what to get him. I told her I’ll have what Wes is having.

I joked and asked Wes if he eats here regularly, he DECEMBER 14 SWEEPING 3

passion for your trade. I thought, “Wow, 60 years running a business makes Wes the most passionate man I have ever met”.

It’s Wes’s passion that’s helped the Boulevard drive-in thrive while others around the country continue to dry up. He’s a stickler for details and is adamant that his drive-in retain the charm that made them so popular in the 50s and 60s.

Once we had cleaned our plates of hot roast beef and mashed potatoes, Wes returned me to my shop and invited me to stop by and watch the Chiefs football game for free at the drive in on the big screen. “Tell everyone, bring your friends”, he said as he made the short trip back across the street.

So what did I learn from lunch?

1. Never turn down a lunch invite, especially one from a 60 year business owner.

2. Be known in your area and visit places you can network at occasionally 3. Evolution is one key for longevity in business.

4. Be passionate about your chosen trade.

“We want to keep it like the original drive-in, and we keep every one of the speakers working perfectly all the time, so every week we have to check every speaker and repair them as necessary,” he said.

Wes suggested staying savvy enough to keep up with the times and evolving technology. The Boulevard was the first drive-in to go digital with a 4-K resolution projector. I remember taking my wife Brandi to the drive in years and years ago and being impressed by the cleanliness, the snacks, the friendly people, and the digital picture on the outdoor big screen.

Be safe, Jeremy Biswell, NCSG president

After talking about drive-ins, Wes and the others at our table started quizzing me about the chimney business and their chimney issues over the years. I taught quite a few people about their fireplaces and gained quite a few new referrals and customers. We even determined that Wes needed his gas logs serviced.

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“Thanks again for both you and Dan following up with me about the training I received at your facility. Dan and Steve were great teachers and they were both very knowledgeable about the products that you sell. We looked at many different resurfacing products that are out in the market, and I did not find anything that I was excited about until I heard about your product FireGuard. It hands down blows the competition away. The ease of use, corporate technical support and the unbelievable quality of the product itself truly sets it apart form the rest! It is a game changer for our business. Please keep up the good work and I look forward to working with you and your staff for a long time.”

Tommy Nelms Sweeps & Ladders

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Editor’s Letter

H

appy Holidays!

It’s hard to believe we have already reached December. This issue marks the end of my first year as editor of Sweeping Magazine. It has been wonderful to work with so many members to produce this magazine for the past twelve months.

Whether you write a technical feature or send in a Darwin Awards all contributions are more than appreciated. We couldn’t do the magazine without help from our wonderful members!

Be sure to read President Jeremy Biswell’s letter at the top of the issue about what he learned by having lunch with a local Kansas City legend. On the technical side Tech Director Mike Segerstrom’s Tech Q and A provides an in-depth look this month. This month’s The Coach’s Corner offers a look into

6 SWEEPING DECEMBER 14

DARCY MARLETT EDITOR

running a “LEAN” operation. Over at The History Project Claire Rutledge is featuring Hans Christen Anderson’s The Shepherdess and the Chimney Sweep.

Another issue highlight is this month’s Meet a Member. Cary Freeman of Fairbanks, Alaska offers a unique perspective on chimney sweeping that all our members from the lower 48 are sure to enjoy. Along with Fairbanks, Freeman services North Pole, Alaska as well!

While going through the magazine you will also want to stop at page 22 to check out what this year’s convention has to offer and to register! I can’t wait to see you all in Lancaster, PA. Cheers,

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Technical Q&A

BY MICHAEL SEGERSTROM, NCSG TECHNICAL ADVISORY CHAIR

Q

I am relining a flue with a stainless steel liner for a client because the existing clay liner is now over sized for the new appliance. Do I really need to perform an internal camera inspection of this flue if I already know that I’m fixing it?

Electrical conduit in the flue

A

Yes. There are several reasons why, and we will take a look at each.

The first reason we will discuss is the NFPA 211, and the Levels of Inspection found in Chapter 15. Whether we are certified or not, these Levels of Inspection have become the “Standard of Care”, or “Industry Standard”. It’s not possible to cover all of the NFPA 211 inspection requirements here, but we will look at one. In the level 2 Inspection section of Chapter 15, the 211 states that “internal surfaces of all flue liners” will be examined by “video scanning or other means”, “prior to relining or replacement of flue lining”. If there is only 6 feet of clay liner, we can probably evaluate all of the internal surfaces of the liner without an internal camera inspection. But if the chimney flue height is more than that, and especially if the flue contains offsets, performing an internal camera inspection is likely the only way to meet that Level 2 Inspection requirement. We may not see anything that affects relining, but we are following the requirements of the industry standard. And by following the industry standard, we are not only providing a better service to our clients, but we are helping to protect ourselves and our companies if we ever find ourselves in a legal situation.

like excess mortar at the joints, clay tile liners can sometimes be severely misaligned at the joints, especially in offset areas. This can also result in stopping our liner from passing through, or even getting it stuck!

Excess mortar seems obvious, but there are many things that can be less obvious. Often these things can be latent or original construction defects that were never known about until we scanned the flue. One good example is combustible materials being incorporated in the chimney construction, and exposed

Next let’s look at some of things we may find, during this internal camera inspection, which could affect flue relining.

One of the common things that we could see in a clay tile lined flue, is excess mortar at the joints. If this is in an offset area, we may not have seen it with a visual evaluation from the top and the bottom. Then the only time we would know about it, is when the stainless steel liner is halfway down and won’t go any further, or even gets stuck. If we would have scanned the flue first, we would have seen it, taken the steps to remove it, and saved ourselves what can sometimes be big headaches! And Charred kitchen cabinet

8 SWEEPING DECEMBER 14

away from an already highly combustible kitchen cabinet!

Scanning the flue first gives us the opportunity to catch these things, and address them beforehand. In the case of a thimble, installing a stainless steel liner could have taken a bad situation, and made it even worse!

In addition to knowing about hidden or not so obvious defects in advance, it can also make communicating with

Gas pipe in the flue

in the flue passageway. Though rare, it does happen. If we install a liner and it is in contact with these combustible materials, relining the flue could actually result in a fire! In some cases it may be possible to remove these combustible materials, but in other cases they are so incorporated into the chimney structure, that they are not suitable for removal. In those cases, relining the chimney flue is not an option.

Other things that can show up in a flue passageway include gas piping and electrical wiring. If we don’t see these things and address them beforehand, installing the liner could cause problems and even result in hazardous conditions if damage to the wiring or gas piping occurs.

Again, these types of things are rare, but they are out there, and we need to spot them first, before we reline the flue.

Another hidden defect that can be more common in older homes, is an unsealed or improperly sealed thimble or breach, usually found on the first floor. Sweeps have seen these thimbles/breaches partially sealed, sealed with combustible materials, are not sealed at all. In one case, the thimble was sealed in the kitchen, by the side wall of a combustible kitchen cabinet! Installing a metal liner in this flue, would have resulted in a metal pipe that gets hot, being only inches

Excess mortar in the flue

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the Client more comfortable. None of us likes to have to go to our client and explain that we ran in to an unexpected problem!

None of us wants to have to explain that it’s going to cost more, or absorb the extra cost ourselves, because we didn’t tell them in advance. It’s much easier if we tell our clients ahead of time, that we may have to remove excess mortar or properly seal a thimble, and here are the additional costs if necessary.

Another thing to look at is appliance manufacturer requirements.

Whether it’s a wood stove or a boiler or furnace, many appliances manufacturers are starting to specifically require completion of a level 2 inspection prior to installation of their appliance. One of the Northeast’s bestselling wood stove inserts, that is actually made in Europe, states in the manual that the chimney “must meet NFPA 211 Level 2 inspection requirements”. And as stated before, a Level 2 Inspection will require an internal camera inspection of the flue.

So technically, if we don’t do this, we wouldn’t be installing that wood stove according to its installation instructions.

Another thing to consider is that a Level 2 Inspection requires us to look at “all enclosed flues”. So if we are relining for a wood stove and there is a 2nd flue in the chimney, typically for heating equipment (boiler, furnace, water heater), Level 2 Inspection standards require us to scan that flue too. Or vice versa, if we are relining for a furnace, we would have to also look at the fireplace and its flue. Some of us may see that as an inconvenience or even something that may put off our client. “Why do you have to look at my fireplace? I thought you were relining my furnace flue?”

But for many of us, this becomes an opportunity. By following the inspection standards that have become our standard of care, we have the opportunity to perform a better and more complete service, an opportunity to discover otherwise undetected hazards, and of course, an opportunity to increase our profits.

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DECEMBER 14 SWEEPING 11

The

Coach’s Corner

BY JERRY ISENHOUR

LEAN on This Idea

I

really enjoy a good steak. I know the value of fat being in the meat, it is where the flavor comes from. The perfect marbling makes for the premier cut of beef. A Prime Rib, a Porterhouse or a Rib Eye, all of these provide a tender, juicy and flavorful meal.

While I recognize the role that fat provides for flavor to a fine piece of meat, I also understand why fat in the business model is not so savory! Fat in the business model is something called waste. That’s why in business we are always looking for LEAN. Frankly, it took me a few years to really grasp the importance of running Lean. But now I have witnessed firsthand the real gains that business owners are making who run businesses that adhere to Lean principals.

12 SWEEPING DECEMBER 14

Business is business, and we all must look at the business processes that best delivers the goals we have set. This is true in every facet of the business, from operations, marketing, accounting, sales, and service or installation, right down to how we sweep the floor. (Hey, believe me, in a Lean operation you know exactly where the broom and dustpan is.) Lean principals will make each and every moment we spend in the operation of our businesses deliver a new level of value to our company and to our customers.

Wasted time, wasted space, wasted resources, wasted money is rampant in too many businesses I’ve observed over the past many years. In fact, I have often observed that waste is by far the highest paid member of the company and likely one of the biggest business expenses. The majority of waste is unseen

by the business manager. It becomes too familiar, like the wall paper, it blends into our operation like an old friend, and we just stop seeing it.

Looking at your business from 20,000 feet is a difficult but necessary requirement, you have to stop and take an in-depth review. To look over all the areas and truly focus on threats to the business durability and profits is essential. But even from that altitude, waste can be difficult to detect, because of the subtle way it slides itself into our comfortable daily routine.

My first experience of seeing a company tackle waste was several years ago when I stopped to visit a good friend in the business. I stopped to view his new location, his new office and warehouse. (I even reported on it in an article in Sweeping at the time.) I saw a business that was set up in a way I had never seen a chimney service business operate. He told me about how instituting Lean processes had started him on a new culture within his company.

Lean was not only the initial organization of the warehouse and even the trucks, rather it was a voyage into the ongoing and never ending process of monitoring and measurement.

It involved a system where the business was on a mission each and every day of going through a process of continuous improvement. The goal was simple; make things just a little bit better every day.

Others in the industry have had the same Lean expert visit their businesses, and he has done a great job of beginning the Five S process of Lean:

• SORT • STRAIGHTEN • SHINE • STANDARDIZE • SUSTAIN Naturally, the real hard part is the fifth part of Lean, that is to SUSTAIN the process.

I remember being at a client’s location a couple of years later doing a class while the Lean expert “leaned” out the trucks.

At the end I asked the client how he felt about the amount of money just spent to clean out the trucks, his reply was the reply I was looking for when he said; “We were not cleaning out trucks, we were building the culture”! However as any student of Lean knows the voyage is on-going and never ending, this is the true hard part, the part called sustain.

Recently, in preparation for a webinar, I returned to the site of my 2011 eye opening experience to video tape several of the meetings conducted and to stay tuned to the Lean process. I turned this into several webinars that I shared with my clients showing them how morning meetings and managers meetings properly conducted could collect so much of the fat of the business and turn this into true profit.

The icing on the cake is the dedication I see among the employees of those who have bought intoLean Thinking.

Those employees have also dedicated themselves to build the culture of Lean. Because one of the powerful values of Lean is that this process drives the thought process of the culture into the minds and thinking of each and every member of the team.

So take a good look at your own business model, are you working your butt off to cut down trees but without the time to sharpen your axe? Think about it, it just may make a difference in how many trees hit the ground that you decide to chop in 2015 and beyond! Lean may just be a part of the process to help deliver your dreams quicker and as you have envisioned them.

About the Author: Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant, educator and coach who authors a monthly article in Sweeping as a service to the industry. For more information about Jerry and how his team can assist you individually and your business in your quest for success and your ascent to the next level, take a look at his web site www.cvccoaching.com He can be contacted at jerry@cvccoaching. com or by phone at (704) 425-0217.

You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page CVC Coaching and Youtube channel CVCCoaching.

DECEMBER 14 SWEEPING 13

BY CARTER HARKINS SPARK MARKETER

Good Service is Still Your Best Marketing

M

y wife, like me, is a bit of a storyteller. When bad things happen to her (like getting her backpack, wallet and passport stolen in a Greek train station), I watch as a little smile creeps into the corners of her mouth, because she knows that even though what’s happening is not fun at the moment, it’s going to make an amazing story. And believe me, you want to be in the room when she starts telling that story. You’ll laugh until you cry, even if you’ve heard it a hundred times like I have. It seems that each time she tells it, the night gets darker, the thief gets bigger, and the unfriendly people at the Greek American Embassy get uglier and more hateful. But then, that’s what a good story is all about, is it not?

say then, for the sake of brevity, that you need to imagine the most finely tuned crew of employees, each unfalteringly executing the job description they had been entrusted with, each taking pride in how well they did the job, and finding nearly as much delight in helping their customers as their customers found in being helped. Imagine that, then triple it, and you may be close. I have never seen such a carefully scripted, closely followed standard operating procedure, matched with a sincerity and honesty that made you feel like the most important person ever to walk into their shop. In one minute, I had completely understood why my wife would never get her oil changed anywhere else.

There is one story my wife tells that has not varied much in the telling since the first day three years ago when she came home and told me all about the oil change place across town that had the best customer service she has ever experienced, hands down. I think she has told every person she knows, including out-of-town relatives, and I think every single one of them now uses this oil change place. And they all tell their friends this selfperpetuating story in almost the exact same words my wife first used. In fact, I even decided to accompany her to the business one afternoon, just to see what all the fuss was about.

I also understood in that same moment what a powerful instrument their outstanding service was in providing their customers with the exact message that they would be going out into the world to share with everyone they knew.

What I learned about marketing that day was startling to me.

You are running a service business at a time when businesses regularly suffer due to negative online reviews, and most business owners feel powerless to stop it. But this owner of

Now, to describe this experience to other service professionals like you would be a little like preaching to the choir. Let’s just

14 SWEEPING DECEMBER 14

So it got me to thinking. What would I pay to have a tool like that? A ready-made script I could share with my customers, who would then use that script just like I had given it to them, and tell everyone they met what a great job we did in helping them?

What would I pay? The better question is, what wouldn’t I be willing to pay for marketing like that?

my wife’s favorite little oil change garage had understood the power of customer service to change that story. To tell a better story, louder, and with more authenticity, so that anyone who had a different, negative story simply wouldn’t be believed.

Priceless.

The power of customer service is the central fuel in any marketing strategy, and that fact has become something I believe in like very little else in business. Every dime and minute you spend marketing or advertising your business without spending at least an equal amount of time and money creating a culture of excellent customer service within your organization is a complete waste, in my opinion. If you don’t have a reasonable expectation that every new customer will be served in a uniform manner, resulting in nothing short of delight and happiness, then inviting that customer into your life is like playing Russian Roulette. And the customer isn’t the one who will be pulling the trigger; that would be you.

But the even more sobering realization is this: The most effective marketing will never be able to overcome even a decent level of customer service. That’s right, I basically just said that decent customer service is acting as enemy #1 of your business. I estimate that most businesses waste the majority of their marketing budgets because a radical commitment to customer service just isn’t a part of the core DNA of the business. Wasted money, trying to make a business look palatable. Lipstick on a pig. If you want your marketing to blow your mind and accomplish more than you ever thought possible, you’ve got to go whole hog on the customer service commitment.

So, what about the business I described in the opening of this article? The one that has made it their inspired earthly mission to make sure that no customer leaves with anything less than the words “Amazing!” on their lips. While I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting the owner of this business yet, I do know what that kind of company training and culture takes, and the costs, both financial and otherwise, are pretty steep. You can’t fake this stuff. You have to live it out from your gut. It has to be what gets you up every morning, and if the job isn’t going right, then it’s what keeps you up at night until it’s fixed. Your employees will know if you’re faking it, and they won’t play along. Your customers will figure it out next, and whatever script you put in their hands is the one they will be speaking from when they leave.

I don’t know what this particular business spends in marketing or advertising. But I will tell you that it has something more powerful working for it than a big-dollar web site and a large ad budget. They have my wife working for them, for free.

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And she’s the most effective storyteller I know.

About the author: Carter Harkins is one of the Crew Chiefs at Spark Marketer, an online marketing management company that helps clients better tell their stories and grow their businesses. He can be reached at carter@sparkmarketer.com or (615) 678-0113

800.722.7230

www.lindemannchimney.com Powered by DECEMBER 14 SWEEPING 15

BY EUGENE La FLAMME

Tis the Season for Good Practices

B

elieve it or not, the Holiday season is upon us and the country is welcoming an early winter. As I write this, it is a paltry 18 degrees outside…and Thanksgiving is still a week and a half away. That means it is busy season for sweep and hearth professionals. When the busy season arrives it sometimes easy to forget the significance of some integral business practices: documentation, employee training, and customer education.

Pictures should also be part of the job documentation process. I have been involved in cases where job site photos were critical in proving that someone else had modified the system after the sweep left the job. Now that most people walk around with a high resolution camera on their smart phone, it does not take much effort to take some before and after photos. At the end of each day, these photographs can be downloaded to the appropriate customer files.

The importance of documentation cannot be understated and I have written on that topic before. Nonetheless, an end of the year reminder is always worthwhile. Sweeps should instruct their employees that there is no such thing as over documenting a job. In fact, the more documentation the better. While this may cause a little more time to be spent at a job site, the benefit of a well-documented job will pay tenfold should a legal claim or customer dispute arise.

Also, as the year draws to a close, sweeps should review their employee training records and certifications. If anyone’s CSIA or NFI certifications need to be renewed, look to schedule the necessary certification activities now. Also, remember that in-house safety training is just as important as the national certifications. Any in-house training conducted should also be documented. This documentation should include a list of the attendees and the topics discussed or addressed at the in-house training session.

It goes without saying that a sweep needs to conduct a Level I inspection every time it cleans a chimney. As part of the Level I inspection, sweeps should complete a condition report that can be left with the customer outlining the results of the inspection.

Ideally, the sweep should go over the inspection report with the customer and address any concerns that were found.

Any conversation the sweep has with the customer about the inspection should also be documented. These records will be critical evidence should a chimney fire occur and a claim subsequently brought against the sweep. The sweep can then point to the records, which will show what recommendations were made. If the homeowner did not follow through on those recommendations, then the sweep will have very good defenses to that claim.

16 SWEEPING DECEMBER 14

Sweeps should continually keep safety and training at the forefront of their business. If they adhere to this practice, their business will likely perform better and the sweep will be in a good position to address any liability claims or customer disputes that may arise.

Happy Holidays to all!

Eugene M. LaFlamme is a partner at McCoy Leavitt Laskey LLC, a national defense firm specializing in fire and explosion cases.

Eugene’s practice focuses on the defense of companies involved in the hearth and chimney industries. He can be contacted at elaflamme@MLLlaw.com or (262) 522-7000.

History Project

BY CLAIRE RUTLEDGE

The Shepherdess and the Chimney Sweep Hans Christen Andersen first released “The Shepherdess and the Chimney Sweep” in his book Nye Eventyr.

Første Bind. Tredie Samling in 1845. Published by C.A. Reitzel originally as “Hyrdinden og Skorstensfejeren” and translated into English by Jean Hersholt. Edited by Claire Rutledge.

H

ave you ever seen a very old chest, black with age, and covered with outlandish carved ornaments and curling leaves? Well, in a certain parlor there was just such a chest. Carved all up and down it ran tulips and roses, odd-looking flourishes, and out from fanciful thickets little stags stuck their antlered heads.

Right in the middle of the chest a whole man was carved. He made you laugh to look at him grinning away, though one couldn’t call his grinning laughing. He had hind legs like a goat’s, one little horn on his forehead, and a long beard. All his children called him “General Headquarters-Hindquarters-GivesOrders-Front-and-Rear-Sergeant-Billygoat-Legs.”

There he stood, forever eyeing a delightful little china shepherdess on the table top under the mirror. The little shepherdess wore golden shoes, and looped up her gown fetchingly with a red rose. Her hat was gold, and even her crook was gold. She was simply charming!

Close by her stood a little chimney-sweep, as black as coal, but made of porcelain too. He was as clean and tidy as anyone can be, because you see he was only an ornamental chimney-sweep.

If the china-makers had wanted to, they could just as easily have turned him out as a prince, for he had a jaunty way of holding his ladder, and his cheeks were as pink as a girl’s. That was a mistake, don’t you think? He should have been dabbed with a pinch or two of soot.

He and the shepherdess stood quite close together. They had both been put on the table where they stood and, having been placed there, they had become engaged because they suited each other exactly. Both were young, both were made of the same porcelain, and neither could stand a shock.

Near them stood another figure, three times as big as they were.

It was an old Chinaman who could nod his head. He too was made of porcelain, and he said he was the little shepherdess’s grandfather. But he couldn’t prove it. Nevertheless he claimed that this gave him authority over her, and when GeneralHeadquarters-Hindquarters-Gives-Orders-Front-and-RearSergeant-Billygoat-Legs asked for her hand in marriage, the old Chinaman nodded his consent.

“There’s a husband for you!” the old Chinaman told the shepherdess. “A husband who, I am inclined to believe, is made

of mahogany. He can make you Mrs. General-HeadquartersHindquarters-Gives-Orders-Front-and-Rear-Sergeant-BillygoatLegs.”

“But I don’t want to go and live in the dark chest,” said the little shepherdess. “I have heard people say he’s got eleven china wives in there already.” “Then you will make twelve,” said the Chinaman. “Tonight, as soon as the old chest commences to creak I’ll marry you off to him, as sure as I’m a Chinaman.”

Then he nodded off to sleep. The little shepherdess cried and looked at her true love, the porcelain chimney-sweep.

“Please let’s run away into the big, wide world,” she begged him, “for we can’t stay here.”

“I’ll do just what you want me to,” the little chimney-sweep told her. “Let’s run away right now. I feel sure I can support you by DECEMBER 14 SWEEPING 17

chimney-sweeping.”

He told her not to worry, and showed her how to step from one gilded leaf to another down the carved leg of the table. He set up his ladder to help her, and down they came safely to the floor. But when they glanced at the old chest they saw a great commotion. All the carved stags were craning their necks, tossing their antlers, and turning their heads. GeneralHeadquarters-HindquartersGives-Orders-Front-and -Rear-Sergeant-Billygoat-Legs jumped high in the air, and shouted to the old Chinaman, “They’re running away!

They’re running away!”

stovepipe? It will take us to the chimney. Once we get there, I’ll know what to do. We shall climb so high that they’ll never catch us, and at the very top there’s an opening into the big wide world.”

He led her to the stove door.

“It looks very black in there,” she said. But she let him lead her through the stove and through the stovepipe, where it was pitch-black as night.

“Now we’ve come to the chimney,” he said. They clambered and scuffled, for it was hard climbing and terribly steep-way, way up high! But he lifted her up, held her safe, and found the best places for her little porcelain feet. At last they reached the top of the chimney, where they sat down. For they were so tired, and no wonder!

“The old Chainman’s coming!” cried the little Shepherdess…

“There’s nothing for us to do but to run away into the big wide world.”

“Are you really so brave that you’d go into the wide world with me?” asked the chimney-sweep. “Have you thought about how big it is, and that we can never come back here?”

“I have,” she said.

The chimney-sweep looked her straight in the face and said, “My way lies up through the chimney. Are you really so brave that you’ll come with me into the stove, and crawl through the

Overhead was the starry sky, and spread before them were all the housetops in the town. They looked out on the big wide world. The poor shepherdess had never thought it would be like that. She flung her little head against the chimney-sweep, and sobbed so many tears that the gilt washed off her sash.

“This is too much,” she said. “I can’t bear it. The wide world is too big. Oh! If I only were back on my table under the mirror.

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The chimney-sweep tried to persuade her that it wasn’t sensible to go back. He talked to her about the old Chinaman, and of General-Headquarters-Hindquarters-Gives-Orders-Front-andRear-Sergeant-Billygoat-Legs, but she sobbed so hard and kissed her chimney-sweep so much that he had to do as she said, though he thought it was the wrong thing to do.

So back down the chimney they climbed with great difficulty, and they crawled through the wretched stovepipe into the dark stove. Here they listened behind the door, to find out what was happening in the room. Everything seemed quiet, so they opened the door and-oh, what a pity! There on the floor lay the Chinaman, in three pieces. When he had come running after them, he tumbled off the table and smashed. His whole back had come off in one piece, and his head had rolled into the corner.

“Oh, dear,” said the little shepherdess, “poor old Grandfather is all broken up, and it’s entirely our fault. I shall never live through it.”

“He can be patched,” said the chimney-sweep. “He can be riveted. Don’t be so upset about him. A little glue for his back and a strong rivet in his neck, and he will be just as good as new, and just as disagreeable as he was before…Here we are,” said the chimney-sweep. “Back where we started from. We could have saved ourselves a lot of trouble.”

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Grandfather was mended well enough. The family had his back glued together, and a strong rivet put through his neck. That made him as good as new, except that never again could he nod his head.

“It seems to me that you have grown haughty since your fall, though I don’t see why you should be proud of it,” GeneralHeadquarters-Hindquarters-Gives-Orders-Front-and-RearSergeant-Billygoat-Legs complained. “Am I to have her, or am I not?”

The chimney-sweep and the little shepherdess looked so pleadingly at the old Chinaman, for they were deathly afraid he would nod. But he didn’t. He couldn’t. And neither did he care to tell anyone that, forever and a day, he’d have to wear a rivet in his neck.

So the little porcelain people remained together. They thanked goodness for the rivet in Grandfather’s neck, and they kept on loving each other until the day they broke.

An industry stAndArd for over 25 yeArs DECEMBER 14 SWEEPING 19

Progressive Perks

BY DEBBIE CORNELIUS MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

2014 Year in Review Unbelievable! It seems like yesterday I just saw many of you at the 2014 NCSG Convention and Tradeshow in Columbus, OH and in a very short time we will gather once again.

NCSG continues to look for new member benefits that will be of value to you and the operation of your business.

The Profit University Audio Series from Grandy & Associates features a different “business” topic each month. Plus you have full access to all 240+ past audio presentations consisting of 18 categories ranging from marketing and advertising, motivating employees, business management and more. A monthly email will provide you with a link to the new presentation or another link will take you directly to the archive section. You may also access this through the NCSG website (NCSG login and password required).

This past year the insurance industry hit chimney sweeps with larger than normal increases in their premiums.

Veracity Insurance Solutions has made every effort to continue the same coverage as they have the past10+ years. They have shopped many insurance carriers and are finding no solution to lower premiums on general liability insurance at this time.

We are not alone as these increases are affecting other trades as well. Just make sure when shopping for other insurance other than through Veracity to make sure you are properly covered.

While some members have found other sources that are less money, they also found that there were many things NOT included in the policy such as soot and smoke coverage.

Wishing you and yours a safe and wonderful holiday season!

Looking forward to seeing you in February at the 2015 NCSG Convention and Tradeshow!

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9/24/13 1:45 PM

Meet a Member Name: Cary Freeman Hometown: Fairbanks, Alaska Business name: Firesafe Chimney Service Inc. Years in the industry: 24 years Worst day ever on the job?

When we discovered that we had to hire a large crane to extract a chimney from a commercial job that we were replacing the chimney.

Best day on the job?

When I’m installing a chimney at 40 below zero but laying nice and warm in the insulation in the attic. I spend a lot of time in the attic on those days!!

Busiest time of the year?

From July through December Question you get asked most about being a chimney sweep/ chimney sweeping?

How do you clean my chimney when i have a metal roof and there is snow on my roof?

Who was your most famous customer?

Not any famous people in Fairbanks. So i suppose, my family doctor.

What advice would you give to new sweeps?

Everyday will be different. When you think you have seen everything, wait till tomorrow. Just know the codes and the concepts and you can figure out anything from there.

What have you learned in your experience that you use routinely?

As a person who owns a wood stove and a pellet stove, I can pass along different burning techniques and how to minimize chimney build up to minimize the chances of a chimney fire.

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Yes. It is amazing what duct tape can be used for. I have made extensions for numerous tools to get to a location that i couldn’t quite reach with the tools on hand.

Weirdest thing you have ever found in a chimney?

Not many weird things in Fairbanks, but i did open the door of a wood stove door one time and got the feeling that somebody was looking at me. After a few minutes of cleaning the firebox, I discovered two small dead bats hanging off the andirons at the front of the stove…one bat on each andiron.

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DECEMBER 14 SWEEPING 21

•

•

Tuesday, February 17 8:00 AM 1:00 PM 3:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM

CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep & CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review & Exam Sessions – Additional Registration Required NCSG Board of Directors Meeting CSIA Board of Directors Meeting Committee Meetings State Guild President’s Meetings Chimney Sweeping Around the World

Wednesday, February 18 9:00 AM 9:45 AM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM ing 12:15 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 2:00 PM 3:30 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 7:30 PM

NCSG Annual Membership Meeting CSIA Information Meeting Coffee Break– Sponsored by M & G Duravent Opening Keynote: Lunchmeat and Life Lessons: Shara Butcher’s Wisdom w/ Mary B. Lucas Group Photograph Creating a Thorough Inspection Program Using the NFPA Annex w/ Tom Urban Carbon Monoxide Safety w/ Peter Cullen Grow Your Business w/ Mike Boudart Soda Break SPONSORSHIP STILL AVAILABLE Social Media & Digital Marketing w/ Ken Mueller Carbon Monoxide Safety w/ Peter Cullen Creating a Thorough Inspection Program Using NFPA Annex w/ Tom Urban Opening Night Party @ Tellus360 w/ The Sootprints - Additional Registration Required

Thursday, February 19 8:15 AM

In the Line of Fire: Everyday Steps to Protect your Business in Litigation w/ Eugene LaFlamme 8:15 AM Understanding Codes and Effective Communication with your Local Code Official w/ Sean McNamara 8:15 AM OSHA Fundamentals w/ Dale Glaken 10:00 AM General Session: Aftermarket Parts for Listed Appliances Referenced in NFPA 211 Panel 10:00 AM New Sweep Seminar & Trade Show Sneak Preview 1:00 PM Opening Trade Show Session

Friday, February 20 9:00 AM 9:00 AM

Closing Trade Show Session Bakery Basket Sponsored by the Rosen Plaza Hotel, Orlando, FL 1:30 PM Replacing Factory Built Fireplaces: A Golden Opportunity for the Industry w/ Jerry Isenhour 1:30 PM What Went Wrong with My Liner Install w/ Russ Dimmitt 1:30 PM OSHA Fundamentals w/ Dale Glaken 3:15 PM Gas Grill Service Offerings w/ Jerry Isenhour 3:15 PM Replacing Factory Built Fireplaces w/ Bob Priesing 8:00 PM CSIA Benefit Auction

Saturday, February 21 8:00 AM 8:30 AM

8:30 AM 10:00 AM

11:00 AM 11:00 AM 11:00 AM 2:00 PM

6:00 PM 7:00 PM

Factory Built Fireplaces Workshop w/ Bob Priesing Neuro Marketing– What Science Has to Say About Success Online w/ Taylor Hill and Carter Harkins Fall Protection for Chimney Sweeps w/ Erik Nunez Coffee Break Sponsored by Wisconsin Guild of Chimney Service Specialists, New York State Chimney Sweep Guild, Mid-Atlantic Chimney Association, Massachusetts Chimney Sweep Guild, Pennsylvania Guild of Professional Chimney Sweeps, North Carolina Chimney Sweep Association How to Get Your Customers to Call, Buy and Beg for More w/ John Meredith Facts and Fundamentals You Should Not Forget w/ Rick Vlahos What Went Wrong with My Liner Install w/ Russ Dimmitt Closing Keynote: Selling to Women PLUS In the Long Road Ahead: Who Will Come Out As a Winner w/ Christine Corelli Cocktail Hour Annual Banquet and Awards Ceremony w/ Magician Jay Mattioli

Seek to WIN! At the NCSG 2015 Trade Show When you visit all of the trade show exhibitors participating in the SEEK to WIN! Program, you can enter to win prizes like an iPad, exclusive NCSG gear, a GPS player or one of several cash prizes!

NCSG Convention 2015 • February 18-21 • Lancaster, PA NCSG Member Rates

Until 12/10/14

12/11/141/22/15

After 1/22/15

Standard Rates

Primary $399 $449 $499 Spouse 199 249 299 1st Time Attendee 150 150 150 (Primary Registrant Only) 1st Additional 349 399 449 2nd Additional 299 349 399 3+ Additional 249 299 349 Single Day 179 179 179 Banquet Only 69 69 69 Child Banquet 5-12 39 39 39 Tradeshow Only 49 49 49 Senior Guild 100 100 100 Members Company _________________________________________ Address __________________________________________ City, State, Zip _____________________________________ Phone ___________________________________________ Email ____________________________________________ Check here to opt-out of emails from exhibitors

Until 12/10/14

12/11/141/22/15

After 1/22/15

Primary $499 $549 $599 Spouse 299 349 399 1st Time Attendee 150 150 150 (Primary Registrant Only) 1st Additional 449 499 549 2nd Additional 399 449 499 3+ Additional 349 399 449 Single Day 279 279 279 Banquet Only 89 89 89 Child Banquet 5-12 39 39 39 Tradeshow Only 79 79 79 Opening Night with The Sootprints - Additional registration required. $20/person includes concert with The Sootprints, games, DJ, and food at Tellus360 in Lancaster! A cash bar will also be available at the venue.

REGISTRANT INFORMATION Please write your name as you’d like it to appear on your badge.

How would you like to receive your convention information packet? Email Standard Mail Name _____________________________________________________________ Registrant Type ______________________________________________________ $ ___________________ Name _____________________________________________________________ Registrant Type ______________________________________________________ $ ___________________ Registration Total $ ___________________ Opening Night Tickets ($20/each) Qty: _______ Ticket Total $ ___________ 2015 Convention Patch ($3/each - Pickup on-site.) Qty: ________ Patch Total $ ___________

MAIL TO: National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168 FAX TO: (317) 837-5365 CALL: (317) 837-1500 REGISTER ONLINE at www.NCSG.org/convention

Office Use Only O2CR C2F AUTH__________ Org ID___________ Profile ID____________ Rec’d By__________ Date ____________

GRAND TOTAL $ ___________ PAYMENT INFORMATION Payment Method: □ Check # ___________ □ Visa □ MC □ AmEx Account # ________________________________________ Card Security Code ______________ Exp. __________ Name on Card ____________________________________ Signature ________________________________________ Refund policy: Prior to 12/10/14, 90%; 12/11/14-1/22/15, 75%. No refunds are available after 1/22/15.

24 SWEEPING DECEMBER 14

OCTOBER 14 SWEEPING 24

NewNCSG Members

NCSG REGIONS

REGION 1 NEW YORK Jake Constatine • Allphase Masonry & Chimney • Selkirk Connecticut Michael Peppin • Chim-Fab • Hartford

REGION 3 TENNESSEE

REGION 1 Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts, New York, Maine, Rhode Island, New Hampshire

David Ellsworth • The Chimney Doctor • Memphis

REGION 5 IOWA Matt Showalter • Top Hat Fireplace & Chimney Services LLC • Hampton

REGION 2 Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania

REGION 6 WASHINGTON

REGION 3

Mike Sparks • Mike Sparks • Selah Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia

REGION 4 Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio

REGION 5 Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Wisconsin

NCSG Charter Members Paul Bourque, Huntsville, AL

Dale Meisinger, N. Augusta, SC

Don Leavitt, San Diego, CA

Alan Hisey, St. Louis, MO

David Harris, Broken Arrow, OK

Eva B. Horton, Greenwich, CT

Dan Wheeler, Santa Rosa, CA

Harry Richart, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ

REGION 6 Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming

John Cline, Menlo Park, CA

DECEMBER 14 SWEEPING 25

CSIA Update DECEMBER REPORT

www.CSIA.org

Integrated and international CSIA board reaffirms committent to ESCHFOE, our European brothers and sisters in soot The Chimney Safety Institute of America board of directors this year reaffirmed our involvement with ESCHFOE, the European Federation of Chimney Sweeps.

There are 22 European Country members, and the United States is John Pilger a guest member. We believe that interaction with our overseas brothers and sisters in soot isn’t just a tradition, but a necessity. CSIA asked Past President John Pilger his thoughts on our partnership.

Why ESCHFOE? As a guest member, we have most of the rights as a regular member, except voting on leadership and meeting motions. I am often asked, “Why are we members?” My reply to that is, ‘Who better to learn from?’ These countries have hundreds of years of experience which we can tap information from, plus most are heavily supported by their governments.

How does the government being involved make a difference? Not only does their government count on them to keep homes safe from fire, but they also count on them for combustion (energy) efficiency and for pollution control.

Every year in Germany, approximately 7,800 German chimney sweeps collect more them 180 million bits of data. Many of these bits of data contain defects in heating appliances, air supplies, CO measurements on gas- fired and oil fired appliances, as well, as pollution measurements of wood-heating appliances.

The government takes this collected data and reports back to the European Union (EU) in Brussels on the state of pollution and energy usage in their countries.

Why does CSIA attend these meetings? That’s the biggest question I’m asked. That answer is real easy: Technical information. Just ask any of our Past presidents, especially Vic Imgarten, Jerry Isenhour, Steve Pietila, and CSIA Director of Education Ashley Eldridge, or myself. The

Europeans are on the cutting edge of technology and any new technology that we can get and pass on to our CSIA Certified Sweeps and NCSG members is well worth the cost of sending our representatives.

Don’t get me wrong, we contribute our fair share of technology, but where we shine is providing them with business knowledge. Many countries in Europe had a monopoly -- in other words, they had their own districts where another sweep could not work. With the new EU rules in place, this John Pilger representing CSIA at a past ESCHFOE presentation. CSIA’s ended the chimney sweep monopoly in many countries. board of directors renewed our commitment to have a representative at Now chimney sweeps can go ESCHFOE during the technical meeting every other year. into another sweep’s area and savings in their home countries. get new customers; they have now entered the Pricing for chimney sweeping was free market. Now chimney companies must also discussed. In some countries the start to market their services. For instance, in government sets the price for chimney Germany and the Scandinavian countries, they sweeping. The delegates were asked are now allowed to repair chimneys. Before the what is the price of chimney sweeping new EU rules, they were only allowed to sweep. in their country? We explain how the This is where America shines, MARKETING market is different in every region of AND CUSTOMER SERVICE. I am constantly our country, so prices vary. It was very schooling my European friends on how we interesting to hear about some of the provide customer service and market our rules and regulations that are going services. The way we soak up their technical on in the other countries. Attending advances is the way they soak up our marketing ESCHFOE conference is very beneficial skills. This in my opinion is the best of both to the chimney sweeps in America. We worlds. This is a big reason why it is extremely gain all the technical benefits for very important to belong to ESCHFOE. little cost.

Did CSIA attend ESCHFOE in 2014? We had MORE ON ESCHFOE scheduling conflicts, but NCSG/CSIA sent in a report to be read at the meeting.

Every even year (2014) is the What was the experience like in 2013? I attended the last technical meeting in England, with CSIA Director of Education Ashley Eldridge, NCSG President Diane Pilger and Past President Randy Brooks. We attended the ESCHFOE official meeting in the UK training center, which is 100% operated by biomass.

Each country delegates reported about energy

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business meeting, where most non-technical issues are discussed and every odd year (2015) is the technical meeting.

NCSG is the ESCHFOE guest member, but CSIA sends their representatives every other year to the technical meeting.

DECEMBER REPORT

www.CSIA.org

New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps

New CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technicans

California

Alabama

Errol Davis | The Chimney Specialist | Costa Mesa

Jody Rush | Top Hat Chimney Sweeps | Opelika

Kevin Christy | San Pedro Chimney and Firewood | San Pedro

Chris Coolidge | Wellman Exteriors | Indianapolis

Indiana

New York Tedd Cuttitta | NY Fireplace Designs Inc. | New City

Colorado Michael Caton | A Clean Chimney | Pine

Virginia

Florida

Ryan Steel | Magic Sweep Corporation | Chesapeake

Neil Hamel | Doodlebuggers Service Network | Pensacola

Vermont

Roydhouse: manual update proceeding

As many chimney Natt Harkins | Brickliners Corp. | sweeps know, Illinois Williston CSIA is planJamin Vander Heyden | Advanced Chimney Mike Byam | Chimney Savers | Randolph ning to upgrade Systems | Rockford our SuccessAnthony Knowles | Lindemann Chimney | Lake CSIA Certified Chimney ful Chimney Bluff Sweeps, Renewed With CEUs Sweep reference Maryland manual. Leading Chuck Roydhouse California David Hill | Magic Broom Chimney Sweeps | this effort is Chuck Roydhouse, Waldorf a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Michael Danskin|The Clean Sweep, Chimney Cleaning & Repair | Knightsen Ryan Ambrose | Magic Broom Chimney since 1995 who was named to the Sweeps | Waldorf board of directors in March 2014.

Florida Chuck, owner of Clean Sweep of Michigan Thomas LaMontagne & James Simmons Anne Arundel County Chimney | Doodlebuggers Service Network | Jacob Castorena | Doctor Flue, Inc. | Repair and Maintenance Inc., of Pensacola Tecumseh Millersville, Maryland, is not only Maryland New Jersey looking at the Successful Chimney Michael Kalotinis | American Chimney Service Glenn Jolie | Magic Broom Chimney Sweeping manual, but analyzing Sweeps | Waldorf | Westwood CSIA certification programs, and Pennsylvania New York exams. “This is going to be the Brian Cline | Smokestack Masonry | Kevin McNamara | Guaranteed Chimney new and improved update that will Strasburg Services, Inc. | Westhampton Beach ensure that we stay current with chimney and venting profession,” Connor Hart | Hudson Valley Chimney Sweeps Edmund Poplawski | Olympia Chimney Supply, Inc. | Scranton | Poughkeepsie Roydhouse said. “Our chimney H. Robert Smith | Chester County Hearth sweeps have evolved into chimney Jake Constatine | Allphase Masonry & sweep technicians, and so our & Home | Elverson Chimney | Selkirk educational materials will reflect Wisconsin Keith Stiffler | Northeastern Masonry & that.” The timeline for implementaChimney | Selkirk Jasper Drengler | Chimney Mechanix | tion is spring 2016. This will be a Shawano Pennsylvania cooperative effort that will involve Mark Maynard | The Chimney Guy LLC | Ryan Collins | Anderson’s Chimney Sweeps | input from the larger community Menasha New Cumberland of chimney professional and dryer Peter Thompson | Badger Chimney Dave Johns | Anderson’s Chimney Sweeps | exhaust technicians. We’ll keep Specialist | Madison New Cumberland you posted! The manual, which debuted in the 1980s, had its eighth edition in October 2011.

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DECEMBER REPORT PRESIDENT’S NOTE A busy year

2014 will end up being a record year for many in the chimney industry, according to input I’ve received Mark A. Stoner from sweeps and suppliers. (Congratulations to all!) I also believe that our increased certification numbers will help the chimney sweeps make more money while doing a better job educating and servicing homeowners. At this year’s NCSG Convention I made it a goal to get our CCS Certification numbers to 1,900. We’re up to 1,500 CCS; let’s keep it going.

CSIA has completed a white paper that, through testing at Intertek Labs, has demonstrated that choosing the appropriate aftermarket part will not change the function of the fireplace or chimney. Parts tested were grates, rain caps and refractory panels. It is understood that whenever the original parts are available they are preferred and that if an aftermarket part is to be used it should always be approved by the authority having jurisdiction. This is useful when the manufacturer no longer supports the listed factory-built fireplace or has gone out of business and the replacement part is one that routinely wears out or is in need of regular replacement.

White paper update

www.CSIA.org

NFI, CSIA deal to mean discounts on certification There’s a reason that Chimney Safety Institute of America Certified Chimney Sweeps are in demand by the public, and that’s in part to their commitment to education. We saw evidence of this in summer 2014, when CSIA had one of the highest turnouts ever for our annual “Installing and Troubleshooting Gas Hearth Appliances” course. It’s because chimney sweeps increasingly want to be of service to their customers, who have a range of alternatives available to them when it comes to stoves and fireplaces of all types.

These chimney sweeps want to add to the expertise that come with certifications from the National Fireplace Institute. NFI certifies hearth industry planners and installers in three hearth product categories based on fuel type: NFI Gas Specialist; NFI Woodburning Specialist; and NFI Pellet Specialist. Now that process will be easier and more affordable.The boards that oversee the National Fireplace Institute and Chimney Safety Institute of America announced an agreement in November so that those who are NFI Certified can receive a discount on either of two CSIA certifications plus CSIA advanced educational offerings, while those that are CSIA certified will receive a discount on all three NFI certifications as well as the manuals and 200+ online classes offered by the Hearth Patio & Barbecue Association Education Foundation. “CSIA has some great ADVERTISEMENT

education programs and can teach things that our hearth professionals should know, and NFI has some great education programs that your chimney sweeps should know, so we’re making the best of it,” said Rick Vlahos, Executive Director of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Education Foundation and the National Fireplace Institute. “There are some great educational opportunities on both sides, and we need to Rick Vlahos

share that knowledge back and forth,” said Frances L. Kelly, executive director of the Chimney Safety Institute of America. “The customer benefits from having a better trained technician when both groups contribute to education.” The collaboration means that a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® can purchase NFI’s manual/exam package at NFI member prices. Those that are NFI Certified would pay a lower rate for: CSIA’s manuals used as part of the certification; CSIA advanced educational offerings; CSIA in-person certification reviews; and CSIA exams. NFI Certified professionals also have access to CSIA’s 70+ online education/training courses. For more info, contact us at office@ csia.org.

-Tom Spalding, CSIA Marketing and Communications

CSIA 2015 Education Calendar As of 10/22/14 - Schedule subject to change. Please contact the Chimney Safety Institute of America prior to making travel arrangements.

CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® Review & Exam January 16 | CSIA Technology Center, Plainfield, IN February 17 | Lancaster, PA [part of NCSG 2015 Convention] March 13 | CSIA Technology Center, Plainfield, IN May 15 | Scranton, PA

Chimney Physics April 16 – 17 | CSIA Technology Center August 10 – 11 | CSIA Technology Center Diagnosis and resolution of chimney performance issues, solving air pressure problems, identifying the symptoms of indoor air pollutants, determining combustion air requirements for vented appliances. CSIA CEUs: 3-T, 3-CS, 3-HS, 3-CL NFI CEUs: 4 E

June 5 | CSIA Technology Center, Plainfield, IN September 18 | Atlantic City, NJ

Installing and Troubleshooting Gas Hearth Appliances

October 16 | Albany, NY

July 20 – 24 | CSIA Technology Center

November 13 | CSIA Technology Center

Service and installation, including appliance standards,combustion requirements, pipe sizing and installation, troubleshooting, carbon monoxide testing and fuel conversion.

July 31 | CSIA Technology Center, Plainfield, IN

CSIA CEUs: 4-T, 4-CS, 4-HS, 4-CL NFI CEUs: 16 T In-person intensive review sessions help candidates prepare for the exams.

The review sessions are not a substitute for advanced study. CSIA CEUs: 1.50-T, 1.50-CS, 1.50-HS, 1.50-CL NFI CEUS: 6T

Inspection and Report Writing May 11 – 12 | CSIA Technology Center Oct. 15 – 16 | CSIA Technology Center Chimney inspections and evaluations, report writing including regional and environmental influences, effective photo documentation, digital organization and admininstrative procedures. CSIA CEUs: 4-T, 4-CS, 4-CL NFI CEUs: 12 T

National Chimney Sweep Training School March 23 – 28 | CSIA Technology Center June 22 – 27 | CSIA Technology Center

CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician® 1-Day Review /Exam January 16 | Independence, MO [hosted by Midwest Chimney Safety Council] February 17 | Lancaster, PA [part of NCSG 2015 Convention] In-person intensive review sessions help candidates prepare for the exam. CSIA CEUs: 1.25-T, 1.25-CS, 1-HS, .1-CL

CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician® 2-Day Workshop/ Exam July 29 – 30 | CSIA Technology Center November 5 – 6 | CSIA Technology Center In-person intensive review sessions, along with hands-on instruction, help candidates prepare for the exam. CSIA CEUs: 9-T, .5-CS, .5-HS, 1-CL

August 24 – 29 | CSIA Technology Center Sept. 28 – Oct. 3 | CSIA Technology Center Fundamentals of sweeping and inspection of chimney systems, equipment operation, health and safety considerations and step-by-step instruction in codes, clearances, standards and practices. CCS CEUs: 4-T, 4-CS, 4-CL, 4-HS NFI CEUs: 16 T

Online classes anytime access | csia.org Over 70 courses to choose from, with a bevy of CEUs. Curriculum is online, so you can sign up and start learning at the convenience of home or work!

Register today at www.CSIA.org or call us at (317) 837-5362.

Dates & Events Educational Dates & Events posts from NCSG. These posts from NCSG serve as the single outlet for educational event notices for the NCSG discussion list.

The only limitation for NCSG Dates & Events listings is that the event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed).

Please email those to me privately at ssichting@ncsg.org for inclusion in these posts, online at www.NCSG.org/dates and in Sweeping magazine.

The following Educational Dates & Events listings have been officially submitted to the NCSG office. This post includes upcoming events four months out. Please check with the host organization listed below prior to making travel commitments

December 8-14, 2014 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

December 15-21, 2014 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review

30 SWEEPING DECEMBER 14

– CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

December 22-28, 2014 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

December 29, 2014 – January 4, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

January 5-11, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics

– CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

January 7-8, 2015 Olympia Winter Workshops – Business Development Seminars Radisson Hotel – Madison, WI For more information visit www.olympiachimney.com

January 12-18, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

January 16, 2015 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® Review & Exams CSIA Technology Center For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

January 16, 2015 CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician® Review & Exams Hosted by Midwest Chimney Safety Council – Independence, MO For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

January 17-18, 2014 Midwest Chimney Safety Council Education Meeting.

OSHA regulations, Avoiding Stress in the Workplace, and midyear meeting For more information, please visit www.mcsc-net.org

– Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

February 2-8, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

February 9-15, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

February 17, 2015 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® Review & Exams Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square (NCSG Convention 2015) Lancaster, PA For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

February 17, 2015 CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technicians® Review & Exams Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square (NCSG Convention 2015) Lancaster, PA For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

February 16-28, 2015 NO CSIA Online Education

January 21-22, 2015

March 2-8, 2015 CSIA (online)

Olympia Winter Workshops – Business Development Seminars Hampton Inn & Suites – Mount Juliet, TN For more information visit www.olympiachimney.com

– Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

January 19-25, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org January 26, 2015 – February 1, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning

March 9-15, 2015, 2014 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

DECEMBER 14 SWEEPING 31

MORE THAN

, 25 000 CHIMNEY FIRES OCCUR EVERY YEAR!

March 11-12, 2015 Olympia Winter Workshops Business Development Seminars Sturbridge Host Hotel – Sturbridge, MA For more information visit www.olympiachimney.com

March 13, 2015 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® Review & Exams CSIA Technology Center For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

March 16-22, 2015 2014 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

March 18-19, 2015 Olympia Winter Workshops – Business Development Seminars Valley Forge Casino – King of Prussia, PA For more information visit www.olympiachimney.com

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March 23-28, 2015 CSIA National Chimney Sweep Training School CSIA Technology Center– Plainfield, IN For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

March 25-26, 2015 Olympia Winter Workshops – Business Development Seminars Hampton Inn & Suites – Raleigh, NC For more information visit www.olympiachimney.com

March 23-29, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

March 30-April 5, 2015 CSIA (online)

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32 SWEEPING DECEMBER 14

– Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.

CSIA.org

Get a free larGe Wohler VIper l (#9413) with the purchase of a Wohler VIS 400 Reel Kit Chimney Package Model (#4153) through December 31, 2014

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The Chimney Safety Institute of America offers a robust mix of both online and in-person classes, including the popular National Chimney Sweep Training School, an immersive four-times-peryear 6-day course that combines classroom learning and on-the-job training during “field days.” Veteran chimney sweeps often choose to participate in our 1-day CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review and Exam, held both at CSIA in Plainfield, Indiana, and at locations around the country.

Wohler VIS 400 Visual Inspection System with Viper Kit • Modular system gives you the flexibility to choose individual components to meet your specific needs • Compact, lightweight, and easy to use • Perfect for bottom-up or top-down chimney inspection • Pan-and-tilt camera head • Bright, LED lighting and vibrant display screen • Includes carry strap and protective pouch with anti-glare protection • Video, photo, and voice recording options

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Wohler USA Inc. | 978-750-9876 www.wohlerusa.com DECEMBER 14 SWEEPING 33

BY FRANCES KELLY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

November

H

appy Holidays!

This November we had the opportunity to welcome some new faces to the Tech Center. We held the CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician (CDET) workshop at the beginning of the month and Darcy Marlett, NCSG marketing director, hosted three college student’s as part of the Public Relations Society of America Half Day with a Pro program.

We also had the opportunity to celebrate the birthdays of not one but three employees. Debbie Cornelius, Donna Kasmer, and Darcy Marlett all have November birthdays.

Last but not least we welcomed Oscar, a rescued dachshund, to both the Kelly and the NCSG families. On his first visit to the office Oscar happily slept behind my desk, visited with staff, and excitedly accepted cheese crackers from CSIA marketing director, Tom Spalding.

From all of us at the National Chimney Sweep Guild we wish you and your families the happiest of holidays!

34 SWEEPING DECEMBER 14

Around the Tech Center

Darwin Awards Amazingly two of the tenants in this apartment house are complaining about smoke smells when one or the other is using their wood stove. The tenant with the shorter pipe is complaining about draft issues. Minneapolis, MN. Steven Cody (CSIA Certification #8150) The Chimney Pro’s 651-731-5111 | scody@chimneyprosmn.com

Have you snapped a photo of a peculiar chimney in your area that made you shake your head in disbelief?

Send it to editor Darcy Marlett at dmarlett@ncsg.org. for publication in Sweeping. Or, mail it to NCSG, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168.

Include a few words about the scene and location.

Gotta chimney question? Sizing? Codes? Call Royal Edwards!

Make Royal your tech department. CALL NOW (813) 982-0219 for on-call tech support.

Continuing Education special bonus – Ask how you can get the Friday-morning e-Blast for FREE. CALL NOW (813) 982-0219

Classifieds CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERS Members can run one 35-word classified free each year! Regular classified ads are $2/word or $1/ word for NCSG members. Classified ads are noncommissionable and must be pre-paid. To place a classified ad, please contact Sara Sichting at ssitchting@ncsg.org or 317-837-1500.

GasVent Software for Sizing Chimneys only $195. Call 1-800-648-9523 for more info and visit www.elitesoft.com to download a free trial version.

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DECEMBER 14 SWEEPING 35

Humor

Cartoon gladly donated by Midtown Sweeps.

Display Ad Index Page # 13

Advertiser Ahrens Chimney Technique

Phone 800-582-1392

Email or Website Address ahrenschimney@qwestoffice.net

20 Copperfield

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4

800-545-6607

www.firesafeinc.com

18 ICP

508-695-7000

www.chimneycaps.com

15

Lindemann Chimney Company

800-722-7230

www.lindemannchimney.com

19

Gelco, Lyemance, Lock-Top

800-247-3305

www.gllchimneyproducts.com

30

MC Refractory Inc.

877-288-2348

www.mcrefactory.com

5

National Chimney

800-897-8481

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7

Olympia Chimney Supply

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Firesafe Industries, Inc.

32 Chimfex®

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10

Sand Hill Wholesale

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6

SaverSystems, Inc

800-860-6327

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3 Smoktite

866-439-0069

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9

866-880-3473

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21 Ventech

866-439-0069

www.ventechindustries.com

33 Wöhler

978-750-9876

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Sweeps America

36 SWEEPING DECEMBER 14

National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168

1408