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March 2013 Volume 37 #3
Table of Contents Features 12 Have you Outgrown your Advisors?
P.12
16 Visions 18 Learning on the Ladder of Life 20 NCSG Innovation 2013 Exhibitor Profiles 33 NCSG Innovation 2013
P.20
Departments 3
Moving Forward
6
Editor’s Letter
8
Industry Watch
10 The Coach’s Corner 36 Dates & Events P.41 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 $459 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). POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168
38 Sweeps Advantage Coupons 39 Progressive Perks 40 New NCSG Members 41 Perspective 43 Darwin Awards 43 Display Ad Index 44 Classifieds MARCH 13 SWEEPING 1
ResourcePage
NATIONAL CHIMNEY SWEEP GUILD
Committee Chairs and Task Forces for 2012-2013 Bylaws Diane Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneygal@aol.com
Governance Randy Brooks (805) 646-8961 hearthhunter@aol.com
NFPA 211 Representative Randy Brooks (805) 646-8961 hearthhunter@aol.com
Convention Site Selection Diane Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneygal@aol.com
Government Affairs Phil Mitchell (603) 659-7776 sootski@aol.com
NFPA 31 Representative John Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneyman@aol.com
Discussion List Bo Tasso (815) 645-8103 bo@botasso.com
International Relations Steve Pietila (503) 644-0393 steve@american-chimney.com
NFPA 54 Representative Jim Brewer (757) 523-2400 jbrewer@magic-sweep.com
Ethics Mark Stoner (615) 459-2546 ashbusters@aol.com
Long Range Planning Diane Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneygal@aol.com
Public Awareness Task Force Rob Lindemann (847) 918-7994 Rob@lindemannchimney.com
Finance Mark Maynard (920) 830-1920 mark@chimneyguy.com
Membership Bob Ferrari (530) 221-3331 bob@flueseason.com
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:
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
Fred Joy Installation and Venting of Pellet Stoves 317-203-0088 x: 7 Jay Walker Dryer Vents 317-203-0088 x: 8 Rett Rasmussen Vented and Vent Free Gas Logs and Controls 317-203-0088 x: 9
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
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 first-hand 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 Design by Laura Houser Design • laurahouser.com • (317) 213-7497 NCSG encourages industry partners to submit press release and articles to Melissa Heeke, Sweeping Editor at mheeke@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 publications’ 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. © 2013 National Chimney Sweep Guild, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168 (317) 837-1500
2 SWEEPING MARCH 13
President, Region 3 Jay Walker (850) 562-4692 • president@ncsg.org Vice President At-Large Diane Pilger (631) 863-2460 • chimneygal@aol.com Treasurer, Region 5 Mark Maynard (920) 830-1920 • mark@chimneyguy.com Secretary Jeremy Biswell (913) 236-7141 • fluesbrothers@yahoo.com Region 1 Phil Mitchell (603) 659-7776 • sootski@aol.com
TECHNICAL ADVISORY COUNCIL
Chris Prior Masonry Construction and Restoration and Priorfire Fireboxes 317-203-0088 x: 2
NCSG BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2011-2012
Region 2 Bob Fleer (410) 544-7600 • bobfleer@aol.com Region 4 Ken Hoelscher (937) 833-0505 • ken@abbeyroadchimneysweeps.com Region 6 Bob Ferrari (530) 941-5818 • bob@flueseason.com At-Large Directors Dennis Dobbs (256) 845-9814 • info@fireplaceservicecenter.com 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 Mark McSweeney, CAE Executive Director mmcsweeney@ncsg.org
Megan McMahon Office Manager mmcmahon@ncsg.org
Melissa Heeke, CAE Director of Communications & Marketing mheeke@ncsg.org
Debbie Cornelius Membership Development Coordinator dcornelius@ncsg.org
Ashley Eldridge, COI, CPP Director of Education ashley@ncsg.org
Donna Lee Kasmer CSIA Certification Coordinator dkasmer@csia.org
Candice Bradbury Director of Finance cbradbury@ncsg.org
Sharon Anderson Program Coordinator sanderson@ncsg.org
JAY WALKER NCSG PRESIDENT
W
Moving Forward
hat do you feel is the best educational experience and most well-attended gathering of chimney industry professionals and suppliers? Well, if you guessed the NSCG convention and trade show, you are correct.
integrity and honesty. In between classes at the upcoming NCSG convention, be sure to network, ask questions, listen and take notes. Write out your list each day while at convention, review it each night and then set a time to prioritize your list and start at the top when you get back in the saddle in your business.
Education in this industry comes to us in various ways if we choose to look for it and apply ourselves. We all need to realize that continuing education (and implementation) is what grows and helps maintain efficiency in all of our businesses.
• Meet other members in your State Guild NCSG makes arrangements each year to provide meeting rooms for state guild use and we also provide an annual Presidents forum for continued communication between the leadership on the state and National level.
There are local state chimney sweep guilds, regional associations, supplier/vendor seminars, freelance industry speakers and educators, schools, technical colleges and the list goes on. There are lots of choices available for us. We must decide which to attend. I say attend as many as you can, but for your best bang for your buck – choose the NCSG Convention and Trade Show. I can remember my first convention experience in Atlanta, Georgia. It was overwhelming to say the least to meet other sweeps in the same industry. And it was even more astounding to attend the trade show, meet vendors and see the new equipment and the latest technology. Many of you have attended the NCSG annual convention for more years than I and many have not. Our Convention Committee has informed me that we are on target for a well-attended event this year in Branson, Missouri.
• Grow your business: One of the best ways to grow your business, in my opinion, is to network with your peers; build a friendship with
MARCH 13 SWEEPING 3
• Latest tools and technology Take advantage of attending the best service and supplier tradeshow available for chimney sweeps. Talk one-on-one to the experts “in the know” about tools for the trade. It may be a new chimney rod system, digital camera scan or new software for your computer. You may notice other related vendors for service professionals there as well, in case you decide to diversify into other areas to provide your clientele professional services.
• Catch up with old friends and make new ones It always nice to see your friends and colleagues – it’s similar to making a yearly visit to a friend and catching up with how things have been in their world and life. It’s time to reflect on past times and the future good times ahead.
• Have Fun Bring the family, your spouse or a friend to enjoy the convention and tradeshow and the Sunday night banquet to close the event. Plan to stay over a few days extra to visit the area with all the numerous shows and activities in the area. Branson is a favorite family vacation destination known for its music scene and various museums and attractions.
• Meet your regional & at large NCSG directors During convention is the best time to meet your NCSG
representative. Query him or her about becoming a director yourself or ask questions, or discuss a problem in your region or state. The board is always looking for good minds, forward thinkers and individuals who are able to set a good vision/ mission to adhere to the changes and trends within our economic status and growth. Is it time to give some time and talent back to the industry you love? Feel free to contact me any time with questions about the Guild. Don’t miss out on the upcoming convention in Branson at Chateau on the Lake, April 3-7, 2013. The best of the best will be there to provide various seminars. Ask questions as you gain insights straight from the seasoned industry professional. Will this be your first convention? Will it be your last? Think about it. We never know exactly what God has in store for us. I’ll close with a quoting Tony Dungy in his book “Uncommon Life”: “Trust God to bear fruit in your life however He chooses to. Don’t sell yourself or your dreams short. Be persistent in accomplishing whatever He has placed in your heart. Your diligence, persistence, and commitment to His purposes are the keys that define success.” Sweeps Luck to you and your family and God Bless, Jay K. Walker, President
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Super Bowl of Sweep Culture
A festival in Northern Italy, where the heritage and culture of Chimney Sweeping is celebrated. There, the Sweeps are the stars of the festivities.
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More than 700 Sweeps from a dozen countries. The Chimneysweeps Museum. A Parade through town, celebrating Chimneysweeps
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Editor’s Letter
MELISSA HEEKE, CAE NCSG DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
Y
ou know them. The customers from your nightmares. We all have them. They get upset, they’re confrontational, they don’t pay their bills when they say they are, they don’t return phone calls with a decision when you need them to (yesterday). Then, once they do finally make a decision, they expect you to perform service the next day. Ugh…
That’s just one of the sessions that will be held at the NCSG Innovation 2013 convention in Branson next month. It’ll change the way you look at your business and will provide you with positive motivation to carry you into new habits when you get back to the office. Thinking about getting into social media? We have you covered. Still meaning to track your leads? Yep, you can learn that in Branson too.
If this sounds familiar, I hope that you’ll be able to attend “How to Handle Difficult Customers” with Hope Stevenson of Dave Pomeroy Signature Training at the convention in Branson. She’ll teach you to confidently and graciously work with those customers without losing your cool.
The full schedule of events can be found online at www.NCSG. org/innovation and on page 34 of this month’s issue. I hope to meet you there!
6 SWEEPING MARCH 13
Industry Watch Lindemann Offers Contest for Free Trip to International Chimney Sweeper Gathering One lucky Lindemann Chimney Co., Customer will win a trip to the International Chimney Sweeper Gathering in Santa Maria Maggiore, Italy. The Festival is the Super Bowl of Chimney Sweep Culture. It is located in Northern Italy, where the heritage and culture of Chimney Sweeping is celebrated. There, the Sweeps are the stars of the festivities. The Festival Dates run August 30th through September 2nd. Lindemann will add a few extra days for travel and sightseeing. To earn entries for the contest you must qualify in this way: You must do $5000 in business with Lindemann Chimney Supply to Qualify. • 1 entry for every $5000 in business • 1 additional entry for every $5000 in growth over last year • 1 entry for a new customer that submits an order of any value • 1 entry for attending a Lindemann sponsored event • Like us on Facebook and get 1 entry This trip is a once-in-a lifetime opportunity! It includes airfare, lodging and some spending cash. Maximize your chances and earn multiple entries! For more information on the Festival, go to www.lindemannchimney.com. The last day to earn an entry is April 30th, 2013.
Katie Ann Santopolo Joins Lindemann Chimney Co. Katie Ann Santopolo has joined Lindemann Chimney Co. Many of you already know Katie whose roots run deep in the Chimney Sweeping Industry. Her passion comes from the fact that her father, grandfather, and great grandfather have all owned their own successful chimney businesses for over 25 years. Rob Lindemann, CEO of Lindemann Chimney Supply states “Katie represents a fourth generation Chimney Sweep who is very dedicated to helping fellow sweeps obtain their goals. She is greatly loved in this industry. We are honored to have her work for us”. She started her “official” career in the Chimney Sweeping Industry working as a customer service specialist for a chemical manufacturer back in 2009. During this time, Katie was the first on-staff Certified Chimney Sweep through the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). Jeff Wiles, President of Lindemann Chimney Supply is excited to bring Katie on board. “I look forward to the experience and insight that Katie brings with her. She is very motivated and dedicated to this industry. She will be able to help sweeps with all aspects of the business.” Katie’s passion in life is helping ot hers find solutions to their problems while helping them grow their business. She grew up in the industry and has seen many changes and “gets it” when it comes to having a chimney sweeping business. When the opportunity surfaced to return to the industry, she was happy to join the Lindemann Chimney Co. Team, a company that she has always loved. She looks forward to the journey ahead and meeting everyone along the way! To contact Katie to welcome her aboard, she can be reached at 518-428-1212 or email her at katie@lindemannchimney.com.
Industry Watch Policy NCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases to Melissa Heeke, Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney & Venting Technology editor, via email at mheeke@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.
8 SWEEPING MARCH 13
MARCH 13 SWEEPING 9
The
Coach’s Corner
BY JERRY ISENHOUR OF CHIMNEY & VENTING CONSULTANTS IN CONCORD, NC
LEAN is a philosophy
O
ne of the hottest tickets available to take a business to the next level is the move many companies are making toward the LEAN concept of doing business. Now when I first heard the word LEAN, to me it meant the way factories increased their production on an assembly line. But quite honestly after doing a lot of research and also seeing first-hand how some members of our industry were using these methods, and how these methods were increasing their profits, along with building their teams, I have become a believer! I have personally seen several chimney service operations who have put the methods to work and it is has launched them like a rocket ship with profits, a new team spirit among their staff members, and has given them a company poised to own their markets. What these winners did was put the entire concept to work in their business models. I recently met an individual after hearing of his talents from folks he had worked with, his name is Bob Arble. Bob’s LEAN education started in the 1980s, before LEAN was really researched by MIT. In his later role as a plant manager for a supplier to Toyota, he routinely traveled to different Toyota facilities, learning the intricacies of LEAN(Toyota Production Systems) from the people who invented it. Bob successfully led two manufacturing plants through full LEAN implementation. He now consults with small businesses in implementing LEAN and has worked with several in the sweep industry producing amazing results. The processes of the LEAN philosophy are those that propelled Toyota to the top in regards auto manufacturers. I have asked Bob to assist me in presenting the LEAN concept to you. The following are words that Bob wants to share with you. Do you long for the days when you would wake up in the morning and couldn’t wait to get to work? It was exciting, fun
10 SWEEPING MARCH 13
and creative. But now that your business has grown, you get up in the morning remembering the chaos of yesterday and know that most likely you will face another day of chaos, with problem after problem. But there is a better way - LEAN for small businesses. Do you want your business to run smoothly with happy, productive employees? Do you want your business to constantly improve, year after year? Do you know how your business is doing every day or do you have to wait until the end of the month? (“I think it was good – I hope it was good”). Do you want your employees to be constantly working to improve your bottom line? LEAN for small businesses will help you accomplish these goals. The roots of LEAN are in manufacturing but LEAN is not just for manufacturing – it’s a way of thinking used to run any business, large or small. At its core LEANis about using teamwork to reduce waste, use fewer resources (money, equipment, people, etc.) and improve value, both for your organization and for your customers. Just as in manufacturing, small businesses can have a difficult time improving value for their business and their customer. LEAN thinking provides proven processes that can be used in a small business to greatly improve the efficiency of the entire company and many small businesses are now starting to discover all the benefits to be gained by implementing LEAN processes. LEAN is a philosophy. You don’t need high-priced gadgets or a PhD in Excel – most LEAN concepts are easy to understand and build on one another as you implement them. LEAN thinking will change your focus to looking at your business as a whole, not as separate functions or departments. LEAN helps you develop processes to run everything done in your business and, like gears in a fine watch, these processes all work together to make a smooth-running whole. However, LEAN consists of
It's Time For Your
more than just a set of processes; it is how you use these processes and systems and how they fit into the entire business. Other, more traditional organizations are departmentalized with people competing with one another for resources, goals or attention. This rivalry becomes a distinct disadvantage in running a business. In LEAN you look at your business as a system - both how all the parts of the business work internally and how they interact with one another. This creates better product and/or service flow, better information flow and better coordination of effort among people, maximizing the potential of every part of the business and not just one. It’s not just the warehouse, it’s not just the sales and retail, it’s how these two interact with one another to make them both successful. The tools implemented by many of the most successful manufacturing businesses can also be adapted for small businesses. These tools, such as 5s, Visual Management, Kaizen problem solving and Morning Meetings all create value in important parts of the business, adding value to both you and your customer. 5s (sort, set in place, shine, standardize and sustain) organizes the warehouse, truck and office so that everything is in the most efficient location and no one has to go looking for an item – everyone knows exactly where it should be. In addition, it is obvious when something needs to be replenished. Visual Management provides visual cues to insure everything is in the correct place. Kaizen problem solving and Morning Meetings rely on employee-defined structured processes to identify and measure problems, and then come up with solutions to reduce waste. Your LEAN journey will help you climb out of chaos and feel in control of your business. The journey can be challenging, but the view at the end is amazing. Bob has joined our network of experts here at CVC that can assist you in moving your business to the next level. He can be reached at 919-444-3063 or bob@brightcutbuildingsolutions.com. If the improvement of your business is something the LEAN process can assist you with, then by all means give my friend Bob Arble a call, your profit picture and your business value will both thank you. Until next issue, or perhaps if we talk at either the NCSG or HPBA shows, my best to you. And as always remember, the only thing preventing you from reaching your dreams is the man in the mirror, get him in on the action and your rocket ship will launch to the stratosphere. 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.chimneyandventingconsultants.com He can be contacted at jerry@chimneyandventingconsultants.com or by phone at (704) 425-0217. You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page Chimney & Venting Consultants.
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BY BRIAN NOE, CHFC®, CLTC
Have You Outgrown Your Advisors?
D
epending on the stage of your business cycle you may have outgrown your advisors. I see it all too often, especially for business owners who have just one advisor for a very specific service or a few advisors who spend an hour a year with you and have no idea who you are or what you are doing. A few recent examples I have dealt with include: • I met with Business owners over the past year who wanted to invest significant time and capital into increasing their business valuation for sale to fund their retirement. In each case it only took several hours to determine that they could retire with their current business value if we made some changes in their investment strategy and existing business relationships. This less risky strategy saved them time, capital, stress, and possible failure of attempting to increase their business value. • On another case, after reviewing a partially completed business succession plan, we identified a potential high six digit liability in the plan. The owner’s advisors were suspicious of this claim, but after 30 minutes of discussion
12 SWEEPING MARCH 13
we all agreed action was necessary. After additional consulting and research with trusted professionals we work with, we then worked with the owner’s advisors to eliminate that liability and reduce the threat of future lawsuits at the same time. • I met with several business owners over the year that had retirement plans that were appropriate for the early stages of their respective business cycle. As the businesses grew the result was the unnecessary payment of alternative minimum taxes (AMT) and not taking full advantage of more sophisticated retirement plans. By implementing a more sophisticated retirement plan we were able to get out from paying AMT, improved cash flow, helped retain key employees, and help strengthen their retirement years. Some of the questions to ask yourself about your current Board of Advisors could be the following: • What type of professionals or peers do you need to create an effective Board of Advisors?
First you’ll need an advisor who can coordinate all of your other advisors, legal documents, and financial data into one easy to access location. The coordinator has a very specific function – to ensure that what you have achieved is protected from lawsuits, creditors, unnecessary taxes, and market risk. What is the point of building your business if you are exposed? The second step is to find professionals who can advise on wealth protection and wealth building (including your business), tax advice in a rapidly changing tax environment, seemingly endless changing government regulations, the markets, and the economic cycle. • Are you prepared to deal with potentially rising interest rates, inflation, and taxes? The second step is not complete until you have professionals and peers who can help you with business operations, marketing, technical education, procedures and systems, employee training, HR, and similar business activities. Being a member of NCSG is a great way to help achieve some of these business functions. You may want to participate in groups such as Management Information Exchange (MIX). This is a great opportunity to share what is occurring in your firm while getting the wisdom of other owners who have ‘been there, done that’ common sense. Remember, common sense is learning the hard way, wisdom is learning from someone else’s common sense. You may also want to work with successful professionals in your industry that know how to help your business and make a strong contribution to get you to the next level. • The next question, after finding ‘what’ type of professionals you want to work with is to as yourself ‘who’ you want to work with.
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Does your trusted professional care about you? Do they ask about your relationship between you, your spouse, your family, your key employees, your customers? Why should an advisor ask? Why should the advisor care? Becoming ‘isolated’ to the point where your spouse and family don’t know you anymore is an emotional issue that can derail your life expectations and your wealth. Losing the love of your family and half of what you worked so hard for because you were not connected to your loved ones hurts beyond words. A true professional holds that relationship as sacred. Charts and graphs are a secondary tool to help ensure your family harmony and happiness. Not having key employees, customers, and vendors can deep six you if you become ill or injured and cannot tend to you business. • Does your advisor ask you what you want to discuss? Does your advisor provide proactive information to help you prepare for pending economic, market, and government changes? We are in a period of great change, this information is critical to your protection and success. • And finally, do you understand your plan? If you don’t clearly understand your plan, poor decisions may be made. You cannot escape into your day to day operation and pretend everything will be OK. This economic cycle is not forgiving for those who ignore their well being for long periods of time and lose focus on success. About the Author: Brian Noe of MW Financial Group, Ltd. has a background in business, economic analysis, education, and is a national speaker with a focus on the closely held family business. Brian was a guest speaker at the NCSG 2011 convention held in Hartford, CT where he discussed How to Get Out of Business and The Economy and Animal Spirits. Brian thoroughly enjoys helping others spend more time with their families and friends while becoming financially independent. He can be reached at (860) 606-0834 or Brian_Noe@MWFinancial.com Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS), 197 Scott Swamp Road, Farmington, CT 06032, 860-677-2600. Securities products/services and advisory services are offered through PAS, a registered broker-dealer and investment advisor. Financial Representative, The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. MW Financial Group, Ltd. is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. PAS is a member FINRA, SIPC. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents or employees do not give tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult a qualified professional to evaluate their individual circumstances.
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BY GREG POLAKOW OF COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY
Visions
W
hen Mrs. Fields told her high powered businessman husband she was going to start a cookie business, he told her, in essence, it’ll never work. Mrs. Fields ignored that proclamation and started one anyway. Seems her husband was wrong. I would bet that at least a few people tried to discourage the 66 year-old Colonel Sanders from going on the road to try to promote his chicken recipes after his restaurant failed in Kentucky when the highway was moved. They would have been wrong, too. His success is evident in almost every town in America. Sweeping_Smoothcore Z-Max 7.35x4.875_January 26, 2013.pdf
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There were a lot of doubters when Henry Ford astonished the business world in 1914 by offering a base pay to his workers of $5 a day. It was more than twice what the going rate was. He did it to reduce turnover and to make sure he could keep the best workers. And in so doing he singlehandedly changed the face of American manufacturing, despite the doubters. Wilbur and Orville Wright were considered fools by many for their devotion to the idea of heavier than air powered flight. Yet, their vision launched the remarkable age of aviation throughout the world. Very few took Charles Lindberg seriously when he proposed a transatlantic solo flight from NY to Paris in a single engine 13-01-26 9:30 PM airplane. All other entrants into the race to win the $25,000
Triple Lock® Smoothcore™ All Fuels Chimney Liner • Eliminates the turbulence that’s inherent with corrugated liners, improving draft • Resists corrosive attack by not impeding the flow of condensate down the liner and less opportunity for soot to accumulate
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prize for being the first to accomplish this feat were flying multi-engine planes with at least two pilots. But his vision was strong and clear and he accomplished one of the great technological and personal feats of the 20th Century when in 1927 he proved the cynics wrong after a 33 ½ hour solo flight across the Atlantic and landed in Paris. And the list goes on: Hannibal crossing the Alps; Columbus crossing the unchartered waters of the Atlantic in small boats to discover a whole new continent; Louis and Clark opening of the west with their heroic journey across the wilderness of the American west. These are widely varied examples of the same thing, really, people who had a vision of possibilities so strong they no one could sway them from their course. Such visions of possibilities are what drive each of us. Most are relegated to creating a comfortable living for ourselves and our families, providing opportunities for our children, and, perhaps, retiring with enough wherewithal to enjoy our later years.
Not everyone who starts a business intends for it to become the next Apple or Microsoft. Not everyone needs or even wants to make a splash on the big stage. Most just aspire to work for themselves doing something they enjoy and maybe to provide employment for a few others in their community. The important thing is not the grand scope of our vision, but rather our commitment to it. Whatever we are truly and deeply committed to we can and likely will accomplish. But for that to happen, our vision needs to be clear and concrete. That is to say, we have to know in very specific terms what it is we want. Once we know that, the path to the goal will begin to reveal itself. Most of 2013 still stretches before us like the vast unchartered ocean of possibilities. What do you want from this year? Think about it. Bring it into your awareness in specific terms. Make sure it matters and you can be truly dedicated to achieving it. Then watch as a path gets created to your goal. The mechanics, no matter what the vision, are simple. It’s all in our control. It always has been.
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$12,900 as shown (includes trailer) MARCH 13 SWEEPING 17
BY FRAN KICK NCSG INNOVATION 2013 CLOSING KEYNOTE
Learning on the Ladder of Life Don’t Get Hung Up On The Rungs! In our event-oriented society, which always seems to be looking for the next immediate gratification rung on the “ladder of life,” it’s no wonder that many of us grow up as students frustrated with the academic world, sometimes referred to as the “educational obstacle course.” We simply see school as a giant maze to “get through” so we can get the diploma and go out into the real world. Parents and educators sometimes even “sell school” as “preparation for life.” Then you get a job and quickly realize “there’s still more school!” Certification, continuing education, training, professional development—call it what you will—it sometimes seems like we’re constantly “going back to school.” John Dewey, the American psychologist and educational philosopher, suggested “education is a process.” He believed that “education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” Yet, the mindset most of us have by default is very event oriented. We tend to focus on the immediate future. We set our goals only on the next rung of the ladder and are disappointed when that rung isn’t the reward we were hoping it would be. We arrive at our short-term goal realizing that there is yet another rung to be reached for. It is true that the more we learn, the more we realize how little we know. Each “rung” we achieve in this world moves us one “rung” closer to realizing there are a lot of “rungs!”
The Ladder Never Ends Because The Learning Never Ends For people who have a “rung” oriented mindset, this may appear to be discouraging news. However, the reality of life is how we see it, not necessarily how it is. Our perception is what creates the frustration for us. If we see the world as one “rung” after another, or one obstacle, or hoop, or wall after another; we will tend to become frustrated with the journey. We will not enjoy the progress we have made or look forward to the many opportunities ahead because we are too wrapped up in getting to the next “rung.” And, once we make it to that next “rung,” instead of appreciating our accomplishment, we get mad because the only thing ahead of us is another “rung!” “When will it end,” we think to ourselves. It doesn’t. The only time it ends is when we stop reaching and growing. By increasing our awareness and maintaining a “ladder” oriented mind-set, we can begin to appreciate the fact that the ladder never ends. (This would really aggravate a person with a “rung” mind set.) Life is a continuing educational journey. We are constantly learning and therefore growing. Ray Kroc used to famously ask: “Are you green and growing or ripe and rotting?” Without growth, there is death. By continually reaching for each “rung” our journey becomes more successful in the sense that we are continually arriving at new places along the ladder, learning from them, and reaching even further. With this mind-set, or perception, we will have become more process oriented in the sense that we see a need to cover
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more distance than just the next “rung.” Our perspective becomes more aware of where we’ve come from and where we are going. We may even be able to see another ladder that reaches in a new, exciting direction. Who said you have to stay on the same ladder all your life?
The Measure of Technology
NCSG Innovation 2013 enables chimney service businesses the opportunity to continue moving forward and upward with inspiration, innovation, and ideas. No matter where you are on your ladder of life—professional and personally—you’ll want to attend the National Chimney Sweep Guild 2013 Convention and Trade Show in Branson, Missouri. Take a few days to find out how you can really pay attention and respond appropriately to today’s fast-paced ladder-filled world.
Don’t Just Stand There On That Rung A step-by-step, rung-by-rung approach is the surest, safest and smartest way to move on a ladder, just don’t get hung up on the rungs! Balance is probably the most important skill needed in climbing a ladder, and in life. A balanced perspective between the ladder and its rungs is the key to becoming more process oriented, while appreciating each event along the way. It is important to “stop and smell the roses” along the way of life, just don’t get stuck standing there. Did you ever try to stand on a ladder in one place very long? You can do it, but you’ll start to get tired, the arches of your feet start to hurt, your hands get sore, and you begin to fidget for a more comfortable position. We were physically made to move, and moving on a ladder is more comfortable than staying on one “rung.” Enjoy the process, appreciate the events, move along your ladder of life and learn, so that you can KICK IT IN!
Want to keep the inspiration, innovation, and ideas going and growing after Innovation 2013? Care to capture what you learned and prioritize what you’ll do when you get home? Then join Fran Kick during our closing keynote. You’ll find out how you can “make it last” motivating yourself and others. Fran promises to help take “what you know and learned” at NCSG Innovation 2013 and create new habits of innovation that’ll bring out the best. He’ll help you see things differently so you can free yourself to do things differently. Encouraging you to stop trying to “motivate your people” and start Kickin’ It In! Fran Kick is an author, speaker, consultant, who has been inspiring people to KICK IT IN® and TAKE THE LEAD since 1986. He has a B.A. in Education, a M.A. in Educational Psychology.
Wohler VIS 2000PRO Visual Inspection System • Inspect chimneys, ventilation lines, vents, and pipes • Color monitor • Pan-and-tilt camera head • Record pictures and videos to CF-memory card • 65 feet of camera cable • Rubber collar for impact protection • Leather protective bag with glare protection and shoulder belt • Modular design for multiple applications • Combine with Wohler’s Viper for bottom-to-top chimney inspection
Wohler USA Inc. 978-750-9876 www.wohlerusa.com
Booths H1 & H2 MARCH 13 SWEEPING 19
Exhibitor Profiles Meet these vendors and more at NCSG Innovation 2013 in Branson A. W. PERKINS COMPANY
CANTERBURY ENTERPRISES - EARTH’S FLAME INC.
36 Curtis Avenue Rutland, VT 05701 (800) 698-7412 (802) 773-3600 www.awperkins.com sales@awperkins.com
440 E. Harrison Ave. Corona, CA 92879 (800) 321-6566 www.earthsflame.com lisa@earthsflame.com
A.W. Perkins Company is the industry’s leading supplier of Professional Chimney Power Sweeping Equipment and Rotary Dryer Vent Cleaning Equipment. Our Rutland, Vermont manufacturing facility builds the unsurpassed RoVac Chimney and Dryer Vent Cleaning Vacuum which both collects dust during sweeping and picks up sweeping debris. Our RoVac Cleaning Systems pairs our RoVac Vacuums with the original ButtonLok Chimney Rods, Enforcer ButtonLok Steel Rods/Tools and ButtonLok Chimney Brushes and Medusa whips, Stinger whips and creosote removing chains. Our spring mounted brushes for dryer vent cleaning have become industry standard, and we now offer versions for pellet stoves and air ducts. Our newest items are a video recording flashlight and a PAPR respirator. We also make a line of high-temperature cements and mortars, high temperature silicone sealants, Hearthglass Cleaner, and Break-N-Burn fire starters. Contact us today for a catalog and look for us at industry trade shows.
AHRENS CHIMNEY TECHNIQUE INC. 2000 Industrial Avenue Sioux Falls, SD 57104 (800) 843-4417 Fax: (605)335-1525 www.ahrenschimney.com ahrenschimney@qwestoffice.net A successful chimney professional needs products and knowledge to solve customer problems at a profit. Internationally respected for the Ahrens poured-in-place chimney lining system, Ahrens offers the products and tools to boost your bottom line. Chamber-Tech 2000, an amazing high temperature insulating mortar for smoke chamber restoration, along with our newly developed Ahren-Fire fireplace restoration system are just a couple of specialty products available as profit potential to you. Call and receive our Chim-Pro Chimney & Fireplace Restoration catalog and handbook. It contains all the tools, products and knowledge to get the job done right.
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www.blueflamestore.com
Wood Burning Fireplace Retro-fit Technology Approved by EPA for Partnership Program Earth’s Flame has the lowest rating on the market and has received such inclusion in this program. Reduces emissions up to 78%, while doubling the radiant heat. Safety features include reducing creosote accumulation which lessens potential for chimney fires and decreases carbon monoxide by 60%. For every 1,000 homes burning a ½ cord of wood per year, the Earth’s Flame retrofit could reduce their total emissions by 5.5 tons per year. Earth’s Flame is the answer to ensure that there is reliable heat in homes. Increasing radiant heat up to 115% compared to a standard cast iron grate. Furthermore, Earth’s Flame produces up to 20 times more radiant heat than a wax fire log, and 5 times more than a gas log set. Even if there are power outages or no gas, Earth’s Flame will still increase the radiant heat by 40%, so it is the solution to heat homes.
CERTIFIED CHIMNEY PROFESSIONALS PO Box 300 Lemont, PA 16851 814-689-1576 www.CertifiedChimneyProfessionals.com contact@CertifiedChimneyProfessionals.com Certified Chimney Professionals has provided an alternative in Chimney Sweeping Certification since 2010. We offer the traditional Chimney Professional Certification and the industries FIRST comprehensive Chimney Relining Certification. We set you apart from your competition. Our certifications are intended to fortify both new & experienced chimney professional’s knowledge, and to allow the chimney professional the chance to prove by independent testing that they have attained a professional level of knowledge of the codes, standards and practices of a
Certified Chimney Professional or a Certified Chimney Reliner and to achieve the designation. Our certifications are designed around the needs/desires of the modern sweep. Online certification, comprehensive, & at a low cost. We save you time, travel and $$$! Visit our website at: www.CertifiedChimneyProfessionals.com for more information or our booth for our latest Coupon Program where we have coupons you can actually use which can save you thousands of dollars!
CHIMNEY & VENTING CONSULTANTS (CVC) 1715 Colfax Dr. Concord, NC 28025 704-425-0217 www.chimneyandventingconsultants.com jerry@chimneyandventingconsultants.com CVC offers a dynamic team of talented individuals to assist our clients in “Matching Your Business Realities To Your Business Dreams”! CVC covers the industry’s needs in consultation, coaching and educational offerings, management, business and technical topics. Our services are varied and we specialize in tailoring a program to the individual needs of each of our clients. Our offerings enable the client to obtain the success they truly are searching for. With the ability to develop and present programs not only at industry events, but also at the client location, to assist them in fine tuning their team for success. We match each client with the right CVC team member who can assist in taking the business to the next level, this level being the one the business owner sets his sights to. Find out how our programs and services may well be your link to success!
CHIMNEY SWEEP NEWS, THE (SNEWS) 12119 Lupine Ln Klamath Falls, OR 97603 (800) 474-5196 www.ChimneySweepNews.com ChimneySweepNews@aol.com
1427 W. 86th St. Suite 328 Indianapolis, IN 46260 317-650-5348 www.comfortgeni.com info@comfortgeni.com ComfortGeni produces residential fan products designed to efficiently move air from room-to-room and level-to-level increasing the capabilities of wood, gas or pellet stoves. ComfortGeni operates at a safe, low voltage with an energy efficient automatic temperature sensor, which turns the fan on and off, as heat is available. ComfortGeni is an easy installation for any DIY homeowner, and operated by remote control they provide unmatched convenience. The whisper quiet operation and neutral appearance allow the product to blend into any décor. ComfortGeni is available throughout the US and Canada through a growing number of hearth distributors.
COMPLETE MERCHANT SOLUTIONS (CMS) 815 W. University Parkway Orem, UT 84058 877-267-4324 ext. 122 www.cmsonline.com jwilson@cmsonline.com Complete Merchant Solutions is the preferred credit card processor for the NCSG. We have years of experience helping merchants manage their electronic payments and are sensitive to the unique and individual demands of running a business. Our goal is to make the process of accepting payments for your business hassle-free, cost effective and most of all secure. If you are currently processing credit cards with another provider, or if you are just exploring the idea of accepting credit cards and comparing rates and fees, contact us for a no pressure cost breakdown comparison.
CONDAR COMPANY
The Chimney Sweep News (SNEWS) is the essential publication for today’s chimney professional - timely, educational and entertaining. In ten issues each year, The Chimney Sweep News features the latest information on products, business building, skills and techniques. Our acclaimed original writing and photography is contributed by working chimney sweeps, suppliers and experts in related trades. There is no other publication in the world like The Chimney Sweep News, devoted to the North American chimney professional. “Nurturing, troubleshooting, self-directly learning, risky, hard working. And above all, amazing. The magazine fits the profession, doesn’t it?” wrote John Crouch. Please subscribe today - call us at 800-474-5196.
108 Mill Spring Road Columbus, NC 28722 (828) 894-8383 www.Condar.com MikeWhitt@Condar.com When you buy Condar products you get the best available. In everything we do our company is committed to good engineering, attractive design, and quality production. Our company is dedicated to positive environmental practices and to American manufacturing. Condar is independently owned. We’re located in the Blue Ridge mountains of western North Carolina, an area where folks take pride in their work. We believe in delivering trustworthy value, to earn your business “one order at a time.” Condar doesn’t distribute through mass-merchants. We serve chimney sweeps, specialty retailers and hearth-products distributors, expertly and with personal attention.
EXPERIENCE COLUMBUS Columbus, OH Home of NCSG Innovation 2014! www.experiencecoumbus.com
COMFORTGENI, LLC
SPONSOR
As Ohio’s capital and the 15th largest city in the United States, Columbus is within 550 miles of half of the U.S. population. With five highways running through the city, it couldn’t be easier to get around.
COPPERFIELD CHIMNEY SUPPLY 304 South 20th Street Fairfield, IA 52556 800-247-3305 www.copperfield.com customerservice@copperfield.com Copperfield Chimney Supply has been filling the supply and accessory needs of over 8,000 chimney professionals, hearth retailers, masons, and contractors for over 30 years. Copperfield MARCH 13 SWEEPING 21
has the privilege of serving over 80% of the chimney professionals in America. Copperfield’s Wholesale Catalog features over 5,000 products including leading industry brands such as Gelco, Lyemance, Lock-Top, and HomeSaver. The HomeSaver brand is exclusive to Copperfield. Customers receive a revised and updated catalog each fall and spring, which contains a wealth of new products. They also receive monthly product fliers containing specials, sales, and other product updates. Priding itself on high standards of customer service, Copperfield continually adds new services to make the ordering process smooth and convenient for its customers. Customers can place orders 24 hours a day by phone, fax, e-mail, or on line at www. copperfield.com. All methods of ordering qualify for Copperfield’s Same Day Shipping Guarantee.
DUCT CLEANERS’ SUPPLY 11153 S. Wilton River Rd. New Richland, MN 56072 (800) 634-2822 Fax: (888) 634-2822 www.ductcleanerssupply.com 4viper@ductcleanerssupply.com Duct Cleaners’ Supply has the innovative products you need to get the job done and the every day items you use at affordable prices. Our Patented Build-A-Brush™ and Revolution Rods™ allow you to sweep systems with ease and give you unmatched versatility. For more information check out our website at www.ductcleanerssupply. com or call (800) 634-2822.
CHIMNEY SAFETY INSTITUTE OF AMERICA ENERVEX, INC.
2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168 (317) 837-5362 Fax: (317) 837-5365 www.CSIA.org office@csia.org The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) is a 501 (c)3 nonprofit organization governed by volunteer industry professionals and technical experts across the country. Established over 30 years ago, the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep (CCS) credential is still the best method for homeowners to measure a chimney sweep’s technical expertise. CSIA’s mission includes public and professional education with a commitment to the elimination of residential chimney fires, carbon monoxide intrusion and other chimney-related hazards that result in the loss of lives and property. CSIA devotes its resources to educating the public and related industries through its public relations efforts and its relationships with affiliated trades such as home inspectors, oil heating service managers and the media.
1685 Bluegrass Lakes Pkwy. Alpharetta, GA 30004 (800) 255-2923 Fax: (770) 587-4731 www.chimneyfans.com info@chimneyfans.com ENERVEX, formerly EXHAUSTO, is a manufacturer of high quality chimney top mounted chimney fans that are guaranteed to assure a proper draft and to correct existing draft problems in almost any chimney. Use the fans for wood, gas, pellet, oil and coal fuel appliances—and the fans mount on any type, size and shape of chimney. To ensure correct draft and best performance of appliance, the fans are equipped with a variable speed control. Various optional controls are available to fit almost any application. Also available is the EcoDamper Fireplace Draft Damper System for gas fireplaces. Call or email today for your free dealer package and tool kit. And be sure to be added to our preferred dealer list!
CrownGuard
Severe weather crown repair & protection
Centering system for metal chimney liners.
®
The most advanced chimney liner in the world
FireGuard Ceramic mortar joint & resurfacing system
Patented
“My company uses most products available to chimney contractors, but Firesafe’s products and systems are hands-down the very best, and the most profitable. Great technical support and their constant improvements make the products even better, which makes my company stand out over my competition.” Kevin Knight, Chadds Ford Chimney Sweeps, PA
TO order call: 800-545-6607 info@firesafeinc.com 22 SWEEPING MARCH 13
www.firesafeinc.com
ESTOBAN CORPORATION 1643 Hwy 34 West Fairfield, IA 52556 (641) 472-7643 www.chimscan.net info@chimscan.net
ICC INDUSTRIAL CHIMNEY CO.
SPONSOR
Estoban Corporation designs chimney cameras and air duct inspection systems. Our chimney inspection cameras and chimney cleaning tools are designed to operate in common chimney flues sized from 3” venting pipe to 13”x18” fireplace flues. Larger size flues for commercial chimneys can be done with special packages to stabilize, rotate and operate the camera. Chim-Scan® is designed to produce imagery from inside the chimney structure, documenting the chimneys interior general condition or locate where defects may be hidden. Even with strong lights or sunshine, areas may be left unseen. In this day and age, open voids within the chimney can drastically reduce its ability to operate properly, leaving condensates and by products still remaining inside the chimney. We look forward to seeing you at the show (our booth is P1-4) and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/EstobanCorporation!
ICC is an industry leading manufacturer of residential venting, specifically insulated chimneys, double walled stove pipe and rigid chimney liner for wood burning applications as well as venting products for pellet and gas appliances. RSF Fireplaces, the most complete line of high-efficiency, clean-burning wood fireplaces on the market is also manufactured by ICC. The latest product lineup, Renaissance Fireplaces is a market leader in the rapidly growing new category of clean-burning open fireplaces as well. As an engineering driven manufacturer, they focus on products which enable better, faster installations while using fewer parts; thus improving installation efficiency. This ensures that the consumer benefits from safer installations and competitive pricing.
LANDY VENT UK LTD Foster House, 2 Redditch Road Studley, Warwickshire, B80 7Ax, United Kingdom. Phone: 011 44 1527 857814 www.eccostove.com sales@landyvent.co.uk
FIRESAFE INDUSTRIES 5335 Ritchie Road Bealton, VA 22712 (800) 545-6607 Fax: (540) 439-6700 www.firesafeinc.com Firesafe Industries is a corporation involved in extensive research and development in the chimney restoration industry. Since 1980, Firesafe has restored thousands of chimneys, developed numerous specialized products to restore and protect chimneys, and designed specialized tools for the chimney restoration contractor. Our dedication, ethics, and insatiable drive to explore and develop more efficient methods and higher quality products bring us to the forefront of the chimney restoration industry. Our commitment to research and development has led to vast improvements with products such as the Guardian S.C.R. smoke chamber restoration, CrownGuard crown sealants, FireGuard™ flue sealant, Guardian cast-in-place chimney liner®, and the Terminator encased flue liner removal tool.
Landy Vent’s Ecco Stove offers the ideal solution to sky high heating bills. Because it releases heat slowly through energy-efficient heating, it creates consistent warmth for your entire home. And with 85.3% efficiency and just 0.24% carbon production, the Ecco Stove is the ultimate alternative to a traditional wood burning stove. Available in black, grey, cream, blue or red with optional alloy or black trim, the sleek Ecco Stove is the perfect addition to any home. From the traditional to the ultra-modern, this versatile stove will compliment your existing decor perfectly while offering cost-effective, energyefficient heating. For further information, contact Julian Lloyd, Landy Vent Ltd – 011 44-1527857814 or sales@landyvent.co.uk, or visit www.eccostove. com.
LIFETIME CHIMNEY SUPPLY LLC
HY-C COMPANY 10950 Linpage Place Saint Louis, MO 63132 (800) 325-7076 Fax: (314) 241-2277 www.hyccompany.com sales@hy-c.com
400 J-F Kennedy St. Jerome, QC, J7Y4B7 (450) 565-6336 www.icc-rsf.com info@icc-rsf.com
SPONSOR
HY-C’s growth continues with the acquisition of Fire Chief Industries and their line of wood burning add-on furnaces. Made in the USA for three decades, the Fire Chief forced-air furnaces can efficiently and affordably heat most homes. The outdoor units boast the patent-pending heat dump feature, which protect the units in the case of a power failure (the nemesis of outdoor furnaces). The indoor furnaces feature a thermostatically controlled draft, 360° cast iron roller grates and a three speed blower producing 1800 cfm. HY-C has been an industry leader manufacturing Chimney Covers and Fireplace Accessories for over 65 years. Our complete line of both stock and custom-sized Chimney Covers are available in Copper, 304 Stainless Steel, Black-Painted Galvanized Steel, and Aluminum in a wide variety of models and styles. HY-C also manufactures a full line of the new Type 2 and Type 1 Stove Boards and Hearth Extenders; Firewood Storage Racks/Covers and Cast Iron Fireplace Grates.
132 Dupont Street Plainview New York 11803 (516)576-8144 www.LifetimeChimneySupply.com Frank@liftimechimneysupply.com
SPONSOR
Don’t you owe it to yourself to find out why over 800 customers switched to Lifetime. With the most innovative technology, best quality products and personalized customer service, Lifetime Brands continues to redefined the industry standards. It’s simple. We treat all our customers like Family; provide the best quality products from UL Listed Smoothwall, Singlewall and Heavy Flex Lining Systems; AND we offer the most competitive pricing in the industry. We know that when selecting a supplier it’s a critical step in your business. Let us suprise you and come by and check out our booth. Every now and then it’s ok to be surprised! Let our Family take care of yours .....hopefully for a LIFETIME. We look forward to seeing you at the show.
LINDEMANN CHIMNEY 110 Albrecht Dr. Lake Bluff, IL 60044 (800) 722-7230 MARCH 13 SWEEPING 23
Fax: (847) 549-7995 www.LindemannChimney.com
www.MeyerMachine.com information@MeyerMachine.com
We are a chimney supplier, a manufacturer and a chimney service business. As a distributor, we can relate to our customers because our successful service business (since 1969) keeps us firmly in tune with what sweeps face every day. Our experiences with chimney sweeping and all aspects of business management make us uniquely qualified to help our loyal customers grow their business. We are a second generation family owned business that’s known by our world class customer service. As a manufacturer we take pride in making premium chimney top dampers; Sealtight, Energy Top, Energy Top+ and The Top Damper (previously U.S. Fireplace Products). They are the tightest sealing dampers in the industry and can be found with the industry’s best distributors. With our dampers you can depend on quality time after time.
QUALITY air duct cleaning equipment at an affordable cost. Add a duct cleaning service to your company with the POWERFUL General or Ranger POWER VACUUM today. Turn key packages include TRAINING, and start at only $13,000. Stop by our BOOTH # 501 at Innovation 2012 to get more info and kick the tires of your newest MONEY MAKER. For SWEEPERS already on board, TEST-DRIVE the Ranger with the HUM-V!
Our staff is comprised of over 150+ years in this industry. Please stop by to see us!
M&G DURAVENT 877 Cotting Court Vacaville, CA 95688 800-835-4429 www.duravent.com customerservice@duravent.com DuraVent is a recognized technological leader in the venting industry. Consistently the first to market with new innovations in venting systems, DuraVent has captured a leadership position in emerging markets, such as flexible vent connectors for water heaters, furnaces, venting systems for direct vent appliances and polypropylene venting for high-efficiency appliances. DuraVent has patents for several of its products and continues to design safe and technologically advanced venting for the market. Scientifically proven materials and unequalled engineering make DuraVent products not only the best choice, or safest choice, but the only choice for professional quality venting products. DuraVent’s Engineered Excellence is a commitment to continue this trend, providing the industry with cutting-edge products and refinements to existing products that not only meet the demands of today’s heating products market, but go beyond it.
METAL-FAB, INC. P.O. Box 1138 Wichita, KS 67201 Phone: (800) 835-2830 info@mtlfab.com www.mtlfab.com Metal-Fab Inc. was founded in 1959 in Wichita, KS on the idea that offering better products and services are the key to success. They began as an independent, privately owned business and continue today with the same values. Metal-Fab is a leading manufacturer of vent pipe for the Hearth and Chimney Sweeps market. These products include Solid Fuel vent, Stainless Steel and Aluminum Chimney Liners, Type B gas vent, Condensing vent, plus other vent. Metal-Fab’s vent pipe is manufactured in the USA. They have made their name by shipping in 1 to 2 days and 100% complete. MetalFab’s independence is an important factor in the superior service they provide customers.
MEYER MACHINE & EQUIPMENT, INC. 351 Main Street Antioch, IL 60002 (800) 728-3828
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NATIONAL CHIMNEY 3 Green Tree Drive South Burlington, VT 05403 (800) 897-8481 www.nationalchimney.com marketing@nationalchimney.com
SPONSOR
National Chimney is proud to be the Premier Chimney Liner manufacturer for the chimney industry and a proud member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild. This year, we are celebrating our 21st year of manufacturing quality M-Flex Stainless Steel and Aluminum liner systems. National Chimney has the industry’s largest variety of sizes, alloys, and custom chimney liners. We are dedicated to superior products, service, and safety.
NATIONAL FIREPLACE INSTITUTE 1901 Moore Street, Suite 600 Arlington, VA 22209 703-524-8030 www.nficertified.org info@nficertified.org The National Fireplace Institute® is the professional certification division of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Education Foundation (HPBEF, a 501(c)3 non-profit educational organization for the hearth industry. NFI’s objective is to increase public safety by establishing meaningful credentials for professionals involved in planning and installing residential hearth appliances and venting systems. NFI certifies planners and installers in three hearth product categories based on fuel type: • NFI Gas Specialist • NFI Woodburning Specialist • NFI Pellet Specialist NFI also recognizes individuals who have successfully gained all three NFI Certifications as Master Hearth Professionals (MHP). These individuals have reached the highest level of certification in the hearth industry.
NATIONAL CHIMNEY SWEEP GUILD 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168 (317) 837-1500 Fax: (317) 837-5365 www.NCSG.org office@ncsg.org It is the mission of the National Chimney Sweep Guild to promote the success of its members by providing progressive services, encouraging professionalism and ethical accountability, and advancing the chimney and venting industry through public awareness of the trade. Stop by the booth to learn more about your membership benefits!
NEW ENGLAND CHIMNEY SUPPLY
PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTS OF KANSAS, INC.
280 Commerce Street Williston, VT 05495 (888) 900-8106 (802) 310-5843 cell Fax: (888) 392-4432 www.newenglandchimneysupply.com ps@nesbestflex.com
4456 S Clifton Wichita, KS 67216 (316) 522-9300 www.watersealant.com vicky@watersealant.com Professional Products of Kansas, Inc. is in the business of developing, manufacturing and marketing superior water repellent and graffiti resistant products. Special emphasis is placed upon providing exceptional technical and administrative support to our customers. We are committed to building lasting relationships based on integrity, courtesy and professionalism.
New England Chimney Supply is a full service innovative Chimney Liner manufacturer that offers a wealth of experience, products, and originality. NECS is the only MANUFACTURER with every solution when it comes to stainless steel chimney lining. We manufacture LightWall, SmoothWall, CrossOver and HeavyWall lining systems. No matter what your stainless steel challenge is, we have your solution. NECS has the most variety of solutions you face on a daily basis. This means you can save money, make your jobs easier, faster, and more profitable than ever before. Give us a call today or come see us in Branson at BOOTHS A7 & B7. We are one big family at New England Chimney Supply and we bring family values to our business. We sincerely care about you, about your customers, and about our products.
OLYMPIA CHIMNEY SUPPLY, INC. 600 Sanders Street Scranton, PA 18505 (800) 569-1425 Olympiachimney.com customerservice@olympiachimney.com
SPONSOR
Olympia Chimney Supply Inc. located in Scranton, PA is a manufacturer of Stainless Steel Class-A Chimneys, Pellet Pipe, Chimney Liners, Chimney Components and Single and Double Wall Black Stove Pipe. Its quality products are backed by a Forever Warranty that is transferrable to the next homeowner and are tested and UL listed by Underwriters Laboratories. Olympia also distributes many other chimney related items for your convenience; such as chimney restoration products, tools, brushes & rods and much more. It has a Custom Shop in-house that will fabricate anything to your specifications and a Customer Service Department that is comprised of CSIA certified techs who are able to assist you with any technical questions that you may have. Olympia, better known as Your Partner in the Business, strives to provide exceptional customer service to put the needs of your business first and foremost. Call us today; visit us on the web or like us on Facebook!
PEKE SAFETY PO Box 83823 Gaithersburg, MD 20833 1 331 725 7353 www.pekesafety.com Contact@pekesafety.com Peke Safety is a distributor of innovative respiratory and head protection products for use in a wide variety of professional and hobbyist applications including chimney care and maintenance, woodworking, yard care and maintenance, and allergy protection. We are proud to be returning to the NCSG trade show for a third straight year and are currently celebrating our 10th year providing protection to the sweeping community. Keep an eye out for the new PowerCap Active and Active with Impact Protection at the trade show, as well as the innovative FilterSpec Half Mask with integrated eye and face protection. All products and specifications are currently available at our website, www.pekesafety.com.
Our products, Professional® Water Sealant (PWS), are clear, penetrating, breathable, RTV Silicone Rubber based, water repellents formulated for use on brick, block, concrete, stone and other above grade masonry surfaces. PWS can effectively protect even the most porous of substrates from damage caused by water intrusion or unwanted graffiti. The unique, RTV Silicone Rubber technology provides PWS with a crack bridging capability that sets it apart from other penetrating, breathable water repellents. For over 25 years, PWS has been recognized as an industry standard by architects, engineers, contractors and property owners for its superior water repellent and graffiti protection capabilities.
RASMUSSEN GAS LOGS & GRILLS 12028 Philadelphia Street Whittier, CA 90601 (562) 696-8718 rasmussen.biz info@rasmussen.biz Rasmussen is the Sweep’s factory direct source for everything you need in vented and vent-free gas logs and contemporary gas fires. Our knowledgeable staff can assist you in determining the right fit for a particular fireplace or answer any technical questions you may have. We also make custom sets for large and/or unusual vented fireplaces. We offer to Sweeps our full line of Solaire Infrared Grills and Bromic Radiant Patio Heaters for sale to customers or to buy at trade discount for personal or friends’ use. Rasmussen is a fourgeneration family business located in Whittier, California, and is a proud supporter of the NSCG and its Innovation show. Please sign up for our informative newsletter at http://gaslogsandgrills. com/ which is dedicated to providing you with business building information and assistance. We look forward to helping you make more money.
REGENCY FIREPLACE PRODUCTS US, INC. 1710 Afton Road Sycamore, IL 60178 888-355-2506 www.regency-fire.com krutherford@regency-fire.com Regency strives to be a world leader in the design, manufacture, and marketing of hearth products. Every day each of us employs EXCITE™ (Exercising Continuous Improvement Towards Excellence)* in all of our processes assuring we are meeting the needs of our customers. We believe in the four cornerstones of great fireplace products: high quality, good value, clean burning efficiency, and beautiful aesthetics.
RLH INDUSTRIES, INC. 1574 Calkins Drive Gaylor, MI 49735 (800) 289-2446 Fax: (866) 353-9329 www.chim-flex.com MARCH 13 SWEEPING 25
RLH Industries, Inc. is a service centered, factory direct source for premium UL listed stainless steel and aluminum chimney lining systems since 1983. In addition, we manufacture our exclusive line of beautiful direct vent terminations: the Homestyle and Eurostyle Collections. We understand your frustrations when suppliers overpromise then fail to deliver. In contrast, we have the right people, systems and company culture to guarantee your expectations are not just met, they are exceeded. Our commitment to innovation, service, safety and the highest manufacturing standards make us an industry leader. With RLH Industries, Inc. you can “Expect More!”. Call for your free catalog today.
ROYAL CHIMNEY SUPPLY 28 N 4th Street Gouldsboro, PA 18424 1-866-235-0302 www.royalchimneysupply.com justin@royalchimneysupply.com Royal Chimney Supply is a family owned and operated company. We manufacturer high quality flexible and rigid chimney liners and components. We take great pride in our products and are always looking for new ways to improve. We have a great metal shop that can tackle any custom part you may need. We hope you join us as we continue to grow.
RUTLAND PRODUCTS P. O. Box 340 Rutland, VT 05702-0340 (800) 544-1307 www.rutland.com sales@rutland.com RUTLAND PRODUCTS has been the resource for homeowners and professional chimney sweeps since 1883. With over 700 premium products Rutland’s full line of Chimney, Fireplace, Hearth and Professional Grade Products include high temperature silicones, cements, mortars, paints, polishes, brushes, rods, and other great tools. They also offer creosote removers, glass cleaners, gasketing, fire starters, gas log maintenance products, masonry cleaners and more! Find out how RUTLAND can increase your business by checking them out at their booth at the NCSG Innovation Trade Show.
SAND HILL WHOLESALE, INC. 1955 Alum Creek Drive Columbus, OH 43207 (800) 258-5496 Fax (800) 958-5497 www.sandhillwholesale.com info@sandhillwholesale.com Sand Hill is America’s oldest national distributor of fireplace, wood and gas heating products. We are proud that we can offer you over 2,200 quality products featured in our 118-page color catalog. Offering the Sweeps Perfection™ line of rain caps and the Homeowners Choice™ relining systems, we have what you will need for your job, on hand and ready to ship. Whether you need a new chimney brush, custom chimney cap or custom ovalized chimney liner, Sand Hill offers that as well. Sand Hill provides customer satisfaction by giving excellent service. We ship the same day when we receive your order by 2:00 P.M. Eastern Time. We offer the best dating programs in the industry and give Free Freight on qualified orders.
26 SWEEPING MARCH 13
SAVERSYSTEMS 800 South 7th Street Richmond, IN 47374 SPONSOR (800) 860-6327 Fax: (765) 935-4999 www.chimneysaver.com info@chimneysaver.com SaverSystems has manufactured the ChimneySaver line of maintenance and repair products for masonry chimneys since 1987. ChimneySaver Water Repellent is the industry standard for eliminating water penetration in chimneys and other masonry structures. CrownCoat and CrownSeal crown repair products offer long term, cost effective solutions for repairing damaged or leaking chimney crowns. SaverSystems also manufactures ACS and Cre-Away, the industry’s leading creosote modifiers, which assist in the removal of glazed creosote. Download your free copy of our Chimney Problem Checklist from our website to assist you with solving difficult chimney leaks. Call or email us for your free Chimney Care DVD to learn how to increase your sales and correctly apply these problem solving products.
SELKIRK CORPORATION 200 Northpoint Drive-Suite 300 Coppell, TX 75019 610-368-2073 www.selkirk.com tfabris@selkirkcorp.com During the 1920’s, Robert Williams and William Wallace began manufacturing stovepipe along with many other metal products and invented a lightweight metal chimney that would become one of the most popular chimneys for nearly a century. The company name has changed over the years, but the commitment to providing high-quality venting products remains steadfast. Today, Selkirk Corporation manufactures venting and chimney products under the Selkirk and Heatfab brand names all across North America and is still well respected as one of the leading manufacturers of innovative venting solutions. Products available from Selkirk Corporation include several models of all-fuel chimney systems, Direct-Temp direct vent, Direct-Temp venting for pellet stoves, type-b gas vent, and aluminum and stainless steel chimney liner systems. The latest innovation, the UltimateONE all-fuel chimney system, has been engineered to exceed industry standards. When it comes to venting solutions, Selkirk Corporation is the company to trust.
SLEEPY HOLLOW CHIMNEY SUPPLY 85 Emjay Boulevard Brentwood, NY 11717 (800) 553-5322 Fax: (631) 231-2364 sleepy_hollow_sply_@prodigy.net Founded in 1977 by three chimney sweeps, Andy, Ray and Fred, our vision and quest were to become an innovative service company on the cutting edge. This vision led to a small supply company with industry-first products like Super-Flex® and components in 1980, Cera-foil® ceramic blanket in 1985 and North America’s largest specialty selection of chimney cleaning equipment and tools. We have become a formidable fabricator of high temperature stainless alloys and manufacture the Bellfires® Refractory Fireplace, since 1986. As our industry grew, we were at the forefront addressing
wood, oil, coal and gas fuel venting solutions, educating through classic hands-on workshops coast to coast.
stop shop” for all your hearth appliance needs. We invite you to “Experience the Total Hearth Advantage”.
SPARK MARKETER
VALOR RADIANT GAS FIREPLACES
201 Point East Dr. Nashville, TN 37216 855-646-3538 http://www.sparkmarketer.com/ team@sparkmarketer.com
190-2255 Dollarton Hwy North Vancouver, BC, Canada V7H 3B1 800-468-2567 www.valorfireplaces.com info@valorfireplaces.com
At the end of 2011, Mark Stoner, owner of Ashbusters, approached us with a simple, yet complex request, “Can you create something affordable for every chimney company in America, which could potentially accomplish what you have helped me accomplish?” We took the challenge, and went to work. We spent the next ten months crafting an on-line marketing program which addresses essential areas of small business marketing, and finally launched in September 2012.
Miles Industries is North America’s exclusive designer, manufacturer and distributor of Valor Radiant Gas Fireplaces. Warming homes since 1890, Valor continues to set new standards in gas fireplace efficiency, comfort control and fashionable design.
Already, Spark Marketer has quickly become a trusted marketing partner, helping local chimney companies with complete online marketing activities. Our mission is to help you create a solid pipeline that you own and control. We work to build your business, bringing new customers through our ongoing efforts. We believe your business needs more than a place to spend advertising dollars. You need support, advice, and experience to grow your business online. If that describes you, come see us.
TIMBURN, INC. 211 River Ridge Circle South, Suite 103 Burnsville, MN 55337 Toll Free (877) 439-7400 Fax: (952) 513-2088 www.timburn.com jcook@timburn.com Timburn Firestarter & Kindl-Stone Creosote Modifier in a One Match Firestarter System The ideal leave behind. Keeps your name on the clients hearth and keeps everything in the chimney brushable so that your next sweeping goes smoothly and on schedule. Timburn’s firestarters do NOT contain chlorides that may damage fireplace and stove systems with either metal or masonry chimney flues. Clients will love the one match starting of nearly any wood and at just $0.60 per light/ treatment it is a great value. FREE labels with your company information and NSCG affiliation included with every order. It’s the Chimney Sweep’s Refrigerator Magnet!
VENTECH INDUSTRIES, INC. 384 Harold L Dow Hwy, Unit One Eliot, ME 03903 (866) 439-0069 Fax: (207) 439-0269 www.ventechindustries.com info@ventechindustries.com Ventech Industries is the originator of spray ceramics for the chimney industry. Our products are designed to make restoration and repair faster, easier, and more profitable! Spray Thermocrete™ to increase safety and performance while adding strength and durability to both residential and commercial flues. Thermocrete is listed and labeled and carries a Lifetime Warranty. Easy to use Smoktite™ will conveniently coat, seal and improve the operation
Presents...
“Your Fireplace Store”
TOTAL HEARTH, INC. PO Box 1247 Mount Sterling, KY 40353-5247 (800) 874-0791 (859) 498-7457 www.totalhearth.com stoveparts@aol.com From hard to find replacement stove parts to exclusive hearth appliance lines, Total Hearth is the “one
National Introduction / Demonstration Have Your Own “On-Line” Fireplace Store • NO Set Up • NO Cash Investment • No Maintenance •
Sweep America Does IT ALL! See You In Branson! 1-866-880-3473 Sweeps America, A Division Of Fireside Distributors ~ Raleigh, NC MARCH 13 SWEEPING 27
of smoke chambers, reaching even the hardest to get areas without ever removing the damper frame. Dynacote™ with Emisshield® will enhance the firebox by returning up to 30% more heat to the room while extending the life of the firebrick. Accept no imitations. Use the original ceramic products with the finest precision machined equipment that have stood the test of time.
WOHLER USA, INC.
VERACITY INSURANCE SOLUTIONS, LLC
For more than 75 years, Wohler has manufactured high-quality, technologically advanced measuring instruments, visual-inspection systems, and cleaning equipment for heating, ventilation, and facilitymanagement applications. Wohler specializes in filaments, cleaning instruments, and brushes for the chimney sweep industry. Their products are continuously developed in order to meet changing conditions and standards and keep you competitive in your field. As a family-owned enterprise with an international focus, Wohler places particular value on customer and supplier relationships. Wohler’s headquarters are in Bad Wünnenberg in Germany, but their market presence is worldwide. The Wohler USA office is located just outside of Boston, MA. For more information, please visit www.wohlerusa. com or call 978-750-9876.
260 South 2500 West, Suite 303 Pleasant Grove UT 84062 801-763-1375 www.veracityins.com graham@veracityins.com
SPONSOR
The NCSG endorsed insurance provider. Not all insurance policies are created equal. The insurance program developed for the NCSG members includes general liability, contractors professional liability, soot/creosote coverage, installation coverage, and tool coverage. Comparing to what other insurance companies are offering you will find that the NCSG insurance program is the most comprehensive, and cost effective, option for chimney sweeps. You can download your application from the NCSG website or www.veracityinsurance. com/chimneysweeps.php. Please contact us with any questions you may have.
WAKEFIELD BRUSH 160 Freedom Court Elyria Ohio 44035 Phone 800-264-7007 Fax 800-525-3427 www.wakefieldbrush.com sales@wakefieldbrush.com Wakefield Brush manufactures a variety of traditional English chimney sweeping equipment to maintain and care for fireplaces, chimneys and wood burning stoves. Products include hand crafted poly brushes with a complete line of rods, fittings and accessories. Wakefield Brush has been supplying England’s chimney sweep trade for more than 60 years. Our hand made equipment ensures the finest quality that sweeps have experienced for decades.
WHITECAPS 307 N. Secrest Ave Monroe, NC 28110 800.335.2534 www.whitecaps.com customerservice@whitecaps.com Whitecaps is your headquarters for Leaky Chimney remedies. We specialize in high-quality, precision-engineered chimney caps and chase covers, manufactured in the U.S.A. and shipped direct to chimney professionals across the US. Our new Big Dripper Chimney Caps & Chase Covers are the BEST protection available. We have the only Advanced Drip Edge Technology in the industry, and consistently provide our clients with top notch customer service by providing quick order processing and accurate order fulfillment. Whitecaps has experienced, field-tested CSIA Certified Sweeps answering your technical questions and offering advice on the best solutions to all of your chimney questions. This is our 15th year in business, and we would like to invite you to see how Whitecaps can assist you with your “We Fix Leaky Chimneys” campaign.
28 SWEEPING MARCH 13
20 Locust St. Danvers, MA 01923 978 750 9876 info@wohlerusa.com www.wohlerusa.com
YODLE 50 West 23rd Street New York, NY 10010 877-276-5104 www.yodle.com info@yodle.com Yodle connects consumers to local businesses simply and costeffectively. The combination of automated technology and comprehensive customer support makes Yodle easy to use. Yodle’s offering is also ROI-driven: local businesses set a budget for which they receive calls and emails from qualified consumers. Today, Yodle delivers results for more than 30,000 local businesses. To do so, Yodle establishes a comprehensive desktop and mobile web presence, implements unique SEO techniques that support a “firstpage guarantee”, and deploys proprietary paid search technology that dynamically optimizes online media buys across multiple desktop and mobile outlets. Yodle’s solution also includes display advertising, review/offer management and a simple performance dashboard. Yodle’s competitive advantage is derived from the sheer scale of its local performance data across multiple industries. Yodle is ranked #26 in the Forbes list of America’s most promising companies.
Z-FLEX (US), INC. 20 Commerce Park North Bedford, NH 030110 (800) 654-5600 www.Z-Flex.com sales@z-flex.com Z-Flex, part of the Novaflex Group of companies, is the leading manufacturer of specialty venting systems for furnaces, boilers, water heaters, oil heaters, fireplaces, and more. Z-Flex has been pioneering flexible answers to gas, oil, pellet and wood venting applications since 1979. Included are our flexible chimney liner solutions, and special gas vent (AL29-4C). We are a family owned business and pride ourselves on our well trained technical service, and helpful customer service staff.
CSIA Update Publication for CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep®s
www.CSIA.org
To: CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps From: Ashley Eldridge, CSIA Director of Education One of the things you do every day can be one of the trickiest in the chimney sweeping business. That thing is performing an inspection. Seemingly simple on the surface, there are many reasons that the inspection can be challenging since every job is different. With the number of stoves, fireplaces and heating equipment out there, it is impossible to write one standard that will include everything on every job. The best approach is to simply understand and apply the concept. What exactly is it that we are trying to achieve by performing the inspection? In the case of an NFPA 211 Level 1 inspection, we are trying to confirm that the flue is clear and can operate in the way it was intended. The points that we want to include in our inspection are defined in the NFPA 211, but they still require some understanding in the approach. In the case of a listed appliance such as a stove, factory-built fireplace or chimney, you must have the installation instructions as provided by the manufacturer in order to accurately determine whether it is installed properly.
Congratulations to Our New CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps California Matthew Voss • A to Z Chimney Sweep • Lincoln
Florida Greg Clear • Doodlebuggers Service Network • Pensacola
Pennsylvania Leon Berndt, Jr. • Petro Oil • Southampton Kevin Bleam • Jamison Chimney Services • Oreland Dennis Lacy, Jr. • Jamison Chimney Services • Oreland Michael Markey • Jamison Chimney Services • Oreland
Rhode Island Joseph Cotrone • Sweepytime • North Scituate
Virginia Kevin Smith • Ashmasters Chimney Service Inc. • Manassas
In an open masonry fireplace, you would look at the condition of the bricks and mortar, both inside and outside the firebox. In a factory-built fireplace, the condition of the refractory panels needs to be documented. For both types of fireplaces, the hearth should be looked at closely since it can be constructed in many incorrect ways. Is there a screen or glass doors? A stove may have to be disconnected from the chimney so you can look inside and determine if it needs to be swept. As a function of a level 1 inspection you will have to determine whether or not the chimney does need sweeping. This approach may be different when approaching a fireplace insert as opposed to a freestanding stove using a thimble. It is important that inspectors look very closely at the unique construction each installation might represent. In addition to the Annex in the NFPA 211, CSIA has Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in the password-protected area of www.CSIA.org that can be used as a step-by-step reference. The SOPs cover masonry and factory-built fireplaces and freestanding appliances in both Level 1 and Level 2 inspections. You should treat every job as though you will be questioned about it later in court. Not only does this protect you, but it also provides a useful inspection report for your customer. Reflecting your findings in a written report is an opportunity to effectively communicate your findings. Your inspection report is based on the facts resulting from your observations. The details describing what level of inspection is required are clearly defined in the NFPA 211. Understanding the concepts of each level of inspection will increase your professionalism and build a bond between you and your customer. We encourage you to visit the password-protected section of the CSIA website or our new mobile app (http://m.csia.org) to download the inspection SOPs that are available to you as a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep. Sincerely, Ashley Eldridge CSIA Director of Education ashley@csia.org
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CSIA 2013 Education Calendar As of 2/11/13 - Schedule subject to change. Please contact the Chimney Safety Institute of America prior to making travel arrangements.
CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® Review & Exam January 25, 2013 | Jamison Masonry Restoration - Oreland, PA February 8, 2013 | CSIA Technology Center March 15, 2013 | Orlando, FL April 3, 2013 | Branson, MO April 26 , 2013 | NEACHP - Manchester, NH May 3, 2013 | Scranton, PA
Chimney Physics June 6-7 | MCSC - Taunton, MA June 9-10 | VACHP - Fredricksburg,VA Diagnosis and resolution of chimney performance problems, solving air pressure problems, identifying the symptoms of indoor air pollutants, determining combustion air requirements for vented appliances in a twoday in-person format. CSIA CEUs: 3-T 3-CS 3-HS 3-CL NFI CEUs: 4 E
June 7, 2013 | CSIA Technology Center June 28, 2013 | Richmond, VA
CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician® Review
July 9, 2013 | Oceanside, CA
February 7, 2013 | Arlington, VA
August 2, 2013 | CSIA Technology Center
April 3, 2013 | Branson, MO
August 9, 2013 | Kansas City, MO
August 1 , 2013 | CSIA Technology Center
September 13, 2013 | Atlantic City, NJ October 18, 2013 | Latham, NY
In-person intensive review sessions help candidates prepare for the CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician® exam. The review sessions are not a substitute for advanced study.
November 15, 2013 | CSIA Technology Center
CSIA CEUs: 1.25-T, 1.25 CS, 1-HS, 1-CL NFI CEUs: 4 E
In-person intensive review sessions help candidates prepare for the exams. The review sessions are not a substitute for advanced study.
CSIA CEUs: 1.25-T, 1.25-CS, 1.25-HS, 1.25 CL NFI CEUs: 6 T
National Chimney Sweep Training School April 29 – May 4, 2013 | CSIA Technology Center June 24 – 29 , 2013 | CSIA Technology Center August 12 – 17 , 2013 | CSIA Technology Center September 30 – October 5, 2013 | 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 C&S, 4 C&L, 4 H&S NFI CEUs: 16 T
Installing and Troubleshooting Gas Hearth Appliances July 15–19, 2013 | CSIA Technology Center Service and installation, including appliance standards, combustion requirements, pipe sizing and installation, troubleshooting, carbon monoxide testing and fuel conversion. CEUs: 4-T 4-CS 4-HS 4-CL NFI CEUs: 16 T
Inspection and Report Writing May 3-4, 2013 | NYCSG - Albany, NY May 16–17, 2013 | CSIA Technology Center Chimney inspections and evaluations, report writing including regional and environmental influences, effective photo documentation, digital organization and admin procedures. CSIA CEUs: 6-T, 6-CL NFI CEUs: 12 T
The CSIA Technology Center is located near Indianapolis, Indiana.
Hate to travel? CSIA’s online education is now offered weekly!
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Now you can access more of the industry’s favorite seminars in a self-paced, online format. It’s easy with CSIA’s eLearning program — offered every week! Need to renew your CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep credential? You can now earn all of the CEUs entirely online. We offer individual sessions in affordable bundles so you can earn just the CEUs you need: $39 per session, $99 for 3 sessions or $149 for 5 sessions.
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To Remove or Not to Remove Ash
and easily when the incoming combustion
Use of the trademark is subject to the
air rushes across them. In either case, if
trademark use guidelines (also available at
the ashes are cleaned out, you will find
CSIA.org).
that it is often more difficult to build a fire Is it a good idea to remove ashes from the
because you must heat up all of the brick in
• Chimney Inspection SOPs
fireplace or wood stove every time you
the firebox to saturation before the fire can
Standard Operating Procedures take the
build a fire?
really take off.
guesswork out of chimney inspections.
Wood burners know that the consistent by-
This also leads us to another benefit of that
starting place OR if your company
product of having a wood fire is ash. While
small layer of ash; it protects the floor of
already has inspection SOPs in place, the
the volume is going to be determined by
the firebox. Usually the dirtiest part of the
documents help ensure that you’re on the
the actual species of wood; softwoods
burn is the beginning stages of the fire.
right track.
weigh less and will have the potential to
This can be addressed with the top down
generate more ash. In any case there will
burn method. Getting the fire blazing as
• A PowerPoint Presentation to Present
always be ash remaining in the combustion
quickly as possible will reduce the amount
to Local Home Inspector Organizations
chamber after the wood fuel is burned.
of unspent fuel that can cling to the interior
These customizable presentations are
There are many ways this ash can be put
of the flue or exit the chimney.
available as a great starting place to
These “how-to” guides provide a simple
demonstrate the importance of annual
to good use. Did you know that it is not a good idea to remove the ash from the
At the end of the heating season, it is
chimney inspections by a CSIA Certified
fireplace or wood stove every time you
appropriate to remove the ashes from your
Chimney Sweep. Namely YOU!
build a fire? Having a 1-inch layer of ash on
fireplace and stove. The ashes actually
the floor of the firebox during the regular
have the potential to draw moisture that
• Chimney Fires: Causes, Effects and
heating season will make it easier to build
can cause rusting of metal components.
Evaluation
and maintain a fire. The hot coals tend to
The acidic nature of the ash combined
This whitepaper has been prepared by
nestle into the ash and glow, adding more
with moisture can be very destructive to
the CSIA Chimney Fire Education and
heat to the fuel and reflecting the heat back
both the masonry and metal components
Research Taskforce to provide a technical
into the fire.
whether you are using a masonry fireplace,
explanation of the dynamics of chimney
factory-built fireplace or a wood stove.
fires, This document, now available as a free download to CSIA Certified Chimney
Of course, this, like almost everything else, should only be done in moderation.
- From www.CSIA.org’s Homeowner
Sweeps, is an
For example; if the ash in your fireplace is
Resources section and the “Wisdom from
often-referenced document in settings as
so deep that it is coming in contact with
the Hearth” blog at www.chimneysafety.
varied as proposals and in court.
the bottom of your grate, it can cause the
wordpress.com.
grate to burn out prematurely. It is the
• Check Your CEUs Earned
same concept mentioned earlier; the heat
While you are still required to track your
is reflected back to the fire, the grate just happens to be in the way and will suffer over time. Additionally, if you have a wood stove with a large amount of ash it will reduce the volume of fuel that can be added to the firebox. However, many long, narrow stoves that burn from the front to the back will benefit from the removal of the ash just inside the door. That ash is completely spent. You can then move the hot coals from the rear of the stove into the cavity you have created and the fresh fuel will ignite quickly
The following benefits await when you log in to the For Certs Only area at www.CSIA.org: • CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep®Trademarks The trademarks are available for download in several formats to allow you to advertise using your credential in print, online and even on your service vehicle.
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own continuing education units, CSIA provides you with a great double-check online in the For Certs Only area. Log in to see a record of CEUs you’ve earned during your certification cycle. CEU records are available for events occurring over 30 days ago.
NCSG Innovation 2013 Branson, MO • April 4-7, 2013 The BIG Power of a Small Idea Wow! This year’s convention is going to knock your socks off! NCSG has designed an educational lineup that will provide you and your company with more opportunities to build business (and a more healthy body!) No matter how you define success, you will find something at NCSG Innovation 2013 that will stretch your imagination, test your technical abilities and get that lightbulb over your head to appear. Meet our Keynote speaker, Jon Acuff of the Dave Ramsey Group. During Jon Acuff’s keynote address, The Big Power of a Small Idea, NCSG Innovation 2013 attendees will learn tactical, practical things they can do to turn the chaos of the current marketplace into an opportunity. The Internet is not done swallowing up industries. There are some very deliberate ways that the chimney industry can grow with the new technology and leadership opportunities available. Bring any questions you have about how you can grow your business with technology and social media. Attendees will also learn how to Keep Kickin’ It In! with closing keynote Fran Kick. You’ll learn a ton of new skills and will head back to the office or the field with brilliant new ideas. Plan to keep the inspiration, innovation, and ideas going and growing
’t DonSS MI is Th w! Sho
after Innovation 2013. Fran Kick’s closing session will help you capture what you learned and prioritize what you’ll do when you get home. Find out how you can “make it last” motivating yourself and others. Fran promises to help take “what you know and learned” and create new habits of innovation that’ll bring out the best. He’ll help you see things differently so you can free yourself to do things differently. The 2013 convention also offers sessions about Listings & Product Safety with Steve Penatzer of Olympia Chimney Supply, How to Handle Difficult Customers with Hope Stevenson of Dave Pomeroy Signature Training, and a Efficient Masonry Fireplaces Workshop to name a few. NCSG will also offer outstanding technical sessions which will help field techs improve skills and learn new techniques. You aren’t going to want to miss this! First time attendees, use promo code FIRST to take $100 off your full convention registration.
We hope to see you in Branson!
NCSG Innovation 2013 will be held under one roof at Chateau on the Lake in Branson, Missouri. It has complimentary indoor and outdoor parking, three amazing restaurants, first class relaxation at Spa Chateau and a full service Marina on Table Rock Lake. Just call 1-888-333-LAKE (5253) and mention that you’re with the National Chimney Sweep Guild (or visit www.NCSG.org/innovation) to lock in rates starting at $129 for a mountain view and $134 for a lake view. The discounted hotel rate is available only through February 21!
Chartered Dinner Cruise Made in the USA April 4, 2013 Join fellow sweeps and industry friends for a two-hour chartered dinner cruise aboard the Showboat Branson Belle. NCSG Innovation 2013 attendees and guests can experience this ALL-IN-ONE dinner, show and cruise at a significantly discounted rate which has been even further discounted through a generous sponsorship from Olympia Chimney Supply. *Chartered Cruise and Dinner Show tickets are available for an additional fee ($29/person) through the regular registration process.
NCSG Innovation 2013 • April 4-7 • Branson, MO Schedule as of 2/11/13. Schedule subject to change. CEU information available at www.NCSG.org/innovation.
Wednesday, April 3 8 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 Meeting Chimney Sweeping Around the World
Thursday, April 4 9:00 AM 9:45 AM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM 2:15 PM 2:15 PM 3:45 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM 7:00 PM
NCSG Membership Meeting CSIA Informational Meeting Coffee Break - Sponsored by SaverSystems Keynote Address: The Big Power of a Small Idea with Jon Acuff of the Dave Ramsey Group Concepts for a Debt-Free Lifestyle with Jeremy Biswell of The Flues Brothers in Kansas Clearing the Smoke; Why are Wood Stove Brochures so Confusing? w/Rick Vlahos of HPBEF Break - Sponsored by Lifetime Chimney Supply Online Marketing Survival Guide for Local Service Businesses w/Taylor Hill & Carter Harkins of Spark Marketer Cast Masonry Liners – History, Installation & Benefits with James Golden of Golden Flue, Inc. Chartered Dinner Cruise Branson Belle Showboat Sponsored by Olympia Chimney Supply - Additional Registration Required
Friday, April 5 8:15 AM Healthy at Any Age with Brandi Biswell of The Flues Brothers Chimney Service in Kansas 8:15 AM Hiring Exceptional Employees with Hope Stevenson of Dave Pomeroy Signature Training 10:00 AM Testing & Troubleshooting Gas Hearth Products with Art Sewell of Valor Fireplaces 10:00 AM 50% Chance of Sun-How to Change Your Forecast with Rob Lindemann of Lindemann Chimney 10:00 AM New Sweep Seminar & Tradeshow Sneak Preview 1:00 PM Innovation 2013 Opening Tradeshow Session 6:15 PM Pete Luter Innovation Awards Presented by The Chimney Sweep News
SEEK to WIN! at the NCSG 2013 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, a GPS, a portable DVD player or one of several cash prizes!
Saturday, April 6
Innovation 2013 Closing Tradeshow Session Bakery Basket Sponsored by Experience Columbus Flashing with Gregg Boss of English Sweep Inc. Forward Scheduling; Tapping the Gold Mine with Russ Dimmitt of Copperfield 3:15 PM Listings & Product Safety with Steve Penatzer of Olympia Chimney Supply 3:15 PM How to Handle Difficult Customers with Hope Stevenson of Dave Pomeroy Signature Training 8:00 PM CSIA Benefit Auction - Get Great Deals! 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 1:30 PM 1:30 PM
Sunday, April 7 8:00 AM Efficient Masonry Fireplaces Workshop with Leading Industry Experts 9:00 AM Best Practices for Generating Leads & Tracking Results with John Meredith of SaverSystems and Mark Stoner of Ashbusters Chimney in Tennessee 11:00 AM Codes & Standards Update with Randy Brooks, Jim Brewer and John Pilger 11:00 AM 12 Keys to Business Success with Jerry Isenhour of Chimney & Venting Consultants 2:15 PM Closing Keynote – Keep Kickin’ It In! Presented by Fran Kick Sponsored by Veracity Insurance 4:00 PM 2013 NCSG Group Photo: Be Part of History 6:00 PM Cocktail Hour 7:00 PM Closing Banquet & Awards Ceremony
Find seminar descriptions, CEUs and more at www.NCSG.org/innovation
anks h t y n a M o our t s! r o s n o p s 2013
CLOSED CIRCUIT
Internal Evaluation System
NCSG Innovation 2013 • April 4-7 • Branson, MO NCSG MEMBER RATES Primary Spouse 1st Additional 2nd Additional 3+ Additional Single Day Banquet Only Tradeshow Only Senior Members
Until 2/14/13 $449 249 399 349 299 179 69 49 $100
After 2/14/13 $499 299 449 399 349 179 69 49 $100
Company___________________________________ Address ____________________________________ City, State ZIP ________________________________ Phone ______________________________________ Fax ________________________________________ Email _____________________________________ Check here to opt-in to email from exhibitors.
STANDARD Until After RATES 2/14/13 2/14/13 Primary $549 $599 Spouse 349 399 1st Additional 499 549 2nd Additional 449 499 3+ Additional 399 449 Single Day 279 279 Banquet Only 89 89 Tradeshow Only 79 79 Child banquet tickets are available for kids 12 and under.
Chartered Cruise and Dinner Show Showboat Branson Belle -- Additional Registration Required. -$29/person - Join us aboard the Showboat Branson Belle on the evening of April 4 for the spectacular “Made in the USA” dinner show and a two-hour cruise on Table Rock Lake. Advanced convention registation closes March 14!
REGISTRANT INFORMATION Please write name as you would like it to appear on your badge. Name _____________________________________________________________ First time attendee? Yes Registrant Type ______________________________________________________ $ ___________________ Name _____________________________________________________________ First time attendee? Yes Registrant Type ______________________________________________________ $ ___________________ Name _____________________________________________________________ First time attendee? Yes Registrant Type ______________________________________________________ $ ___________________ Name _____________________________________________________________ First time attendee? Yes Registrant Type ______________________________________________________ $ ___________________ Registration Total $ ___________________ Showboat Branson Belle Tickets ($29/each) Qty: _______ Cruise Total $ ___________________ 2013 Convention Patch ($3/each - Pickup on-site.) Qty: ________ Patch Total $ ___________________ PROMO CODE ___________________ GRAND TOTAL $ ___________________
MAIL TO: National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168 FAX TO: (317) 837-5365 CALL: (317) 837-1500 REGISTER ONLINE: NCSG.org/innovation NCSG also accepts direct debit payments. Please contact Candice Bradbury at (317) 837-1500 or cbradbury@ncsg.org for more information.
For Office Use Only O2CR C2F AUTH _______________ OrgID ________________ Profile ID ___________________ REC’D BY _____________ DATE ______________________
PAYMENT INFORMATION Check # ___________________ Payment Method: Visa MC AmEx Account # __________________________________ Card Security Code _____________ Exp. __________ Name on Card _______________________________ Signature ___________________________________ Cancellations must be made in writing and sent to: NCSG, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168. Refund Policy: Prior to 1/9/13, 90% ; 1/10/13-2/14/13, 75%; No refunds are available after 2/14/13.
Dates & Events
visit www.CSIA.org
March 18-22, 2013 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
April 3, 2013 CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review and Exam Branson, MO For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org
March 25-29, 2013 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
April 15-19, 2013 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
April 3, 2013 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review and Exam Branson, MO For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or
April 4-7, 2013 NCSG Innovation 2013 Convention Branson, MO For more information, please call (317) 837-1500 or visit www.NCSG. org
April 19-24, 2013 AHIT Home Inspection Training Course CSIA Technology Center For more information, please visit www.ahit.com/affiliates/csia
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April 22-26, 2013 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 April 23, 2013 Copperfield Reline Workshop East Hartford, CT For more information, please contact Russ Dimmitt at russ.dimmitt@ copperfield.com April 26, 2013 Copperfield Reline Workshop Philadelphia area For more information, please contact Russ Dimmitt at russ.dimmitt@ copperfield.com April 26, 2013 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review and Exam Sponsored by NEACHP Manchester, NH For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org
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2012 – 2013 SWEEPS ADVANTAGE COUPON PROGRAM The 2012 – 2013 offers are being added daily in the “Members Only” section of the NCSG website at www.NCSG.org. So start checking for these new offers each week. These coupons will be good until June 30, 2013. Airjet, Division of Continental Industries • Alpha American Company • Condar Company • Copperfield Chimney Supply • Duct Cleaners’ Supply • Dynacote LLC • Earthcore Industries, LLC • ENERVEX, Inc. • Firesafe Industries • Fireside Distributors • HY-C Company • Lifetime Chimney Supply • Lindemann Chimney Supply • Matters of the Hearth • Meyer Machine & Equipment • National Chimney Supply • Olympia Chimney Supply • SaverSystems • Smoktite LLC • SNEWS – The Chimney Sweep News • Stove Builder International Inc. (SBI) • Ventech Industries, Inc. • Wakefield Brush • Wohler USA, Inc. • Z-Flex These are just a few of the many offers available to you as a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild. Visit www.NCSG.org to learn more and to start saving!
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6 FREE Thermocrete CFS with a Thermocrete Residential Dealership ~~~6 FREE Thermocrete CFS with a Thermocrete Commercial Dealership PLUS On-site Commercial/Industrial Support! FREE Rebuild Kit for small Build-A-Brush with purchase of DCS Brush Kit
Progressive Perks
BY DEBBIE CORNELIUS MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR
Meet all Your Shipping Needs! The National Chimney Sweep Guild has partnered with FedEx, YRC Freight and UPS Freight to develop a shipping program specifically designed to meet all of your shipping needs and lower shipping costs! Some of the products and services you can take advantage of through NCSG’s shipping program are: FedEx Express®: • For fast, reliable delivery of your time-critical shipments. • Ship and manage your shipping at fedex.com. FedEx Ground®: • For cost-effective delivery of shipments that don’t need the speed of express shipping. • Drop off shipments at thousands of convenient locations.
FedEx Freight®: • Reliable, on-time delivery of your LTL palletized or nonpalletized freight shipments greater than 150 lbs. • Extensive next-day and second-day regional services as well as all-points coverage of virtually every ZIP code—all backed by a no-fee money-back guarantee**. YRC Freight® • Guaranteed, expedited and time-definite air and ground service with proactive notification, backed by 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. • Highly reliable, expedited service throughout North America, including cross-border to and from Canada. UPS Freight®: • Standard LTL service featuring more than 20,000 one-and two-day lanes. • Cross-continent three- and four-day service. • Regional, interregional and long-haul services.
Golden Flue The Cure For The Flue
Don’t miss out on these valuable discounts of up to 16%* off select FedEx Express® and FedEx Ground® shipping services and at least 70% for LTL (lessthan-truckload) freight shipments over 150 lbs. with the best carriers in the industry.
• Golden Flue Cast Masonry Liners • Stainless Steel Insulating Mix
For additional information, please call 1-800-MEMBERS (636-2377) or visit http://www.1800members.com/NCSG. For a quote on a pending shipment please email all pertinent information to saveonfreight@1800members.com and a dedicated freight representative will follow up with you the same day.
GF Cast Masonry Mix • Reline Fireplace & Smokechamber • Reline Oil Or Gas Flues Reduce Creosote / Increase Draft
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*Terms and Conditions **Applies to FXF 1000 Rate Base customers only. Subject to terms and conditions provided in the FXF 100 Series Rules Tariff.
Visit: www.goldenflue.com MARCH 13 SWEEPING 39
NewNCSG Members
NCSG REGIONS
REGION 3 VIRGINA Kevin Smith • Ashmasters Chimney Service, Inc. • Manassas
TENNESSEE Victor Quarles • Father and Sons Remodeling LLC • Memphis
REGION 4 OHIO Rye Weaver • Chimney Top Masonry • Cincinnati
REGION 1 Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts, New York, Maine, Rhode Island, New Hampshire
REGION 5 REGION 2
TEXAS Roddy Dean Hartsook • Hartsook, Roddy Dean • San Antonio
REGION 6
Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania
CALIFORNIA Jon Staats • Black Beauty Chimney Services • Chico Lisa Leighton • Canterbury Enterprises • Corona
WASHINGTON Zack Powers • Powers Chimney & Masonry • Arlington
REGION 3 Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia
REGION 4 Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio
REGION 5
NCSG Charter Members Paul Bourque Huntsville, AL
John Cline, Menlo Park, CA
Don Leavitt San Diego, CA
Dale Meisinger, N. Augusta, SC
David Harris Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
Eva B. Horton, Greenwich, CT
Dan Wheeler Santa Rosa, CA
40 SWEEPING MARCH 13
Alan Hisey, St. Louis, MO
Harry Richart, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ
Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Wisconsin
REGION 6 Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
Perspective
BY MARK MCSWEENEY, CAE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
What Are You Waiting For?
A
re you happy? Life doesn’t have a rewind button. There are no mulligans. We all have the here and now, and if you’re not happy with you’re here and now, change it!
Several years ago, NCSG had a keynote speaker, Scott McKain, who spoke to us about change and making the most of today. He shared with us a favorite anonymous poem on the topic: He would be all that a mortal could be…Tomorrow. No one would be kinder or fairer than she…Tomorrow. Each day he would stack up the letters he would write… Tomorrow. She would think of the customers she would fill with delight… Tomorrow. But the fact is they died and faded from view and all that was left when living was through was the mountain of things they intended to do…Tomorrow. We all tend to be creatures of habit. We get into our comfortable routines and stick with them until something significant comes along that jolts us out of it. But do you ever wonder how many opportunities you miss because you’re so locked in to the known and familiar? Sure, there’s no need to dwell on all the “what ifs?” in life, but are you living in the moment and keeping your eyes and mind open for prospects to continually improve the outlook for yourself and those around you?
“Learn from the past, watch the present, and create the future.” -unknown
I’ve heard it said that most of us would rather put up with the habits we know simply because we know them. It’s easier to continue down the path of least resistance rather than create new habits that we have never experienced before. But as the saying goes, “If you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you always got.” In other words, nothing will change if you don’t change. But change can be scary. It feels safer to allow ourselves to get caught up in day to day living and put off changes that could potentially improve our lives. Change might imply instability, right? Wrong! Just because something is familiar with us is not a reason to keep doing it. Virtually every invention in life has been the result of someone challenging the status quo. It is normal to fear change, but what an accomplishment it is, the mark of a true leader, to come out on the other side richer for having made the attempt regardless of the outcome. In a speech by one of the world’s greatest change agents in relatively modern times, Nelson Mandela once said: “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” MARCH 13 SWEEPING 41
We are heading in to what, for many sweeps, has become the traditional education season. Over the next several months there will be no shortage of national and regional industry conferences. There are all sorts of seminar and consulting opportunities to take advantage of. Online education to improve technical, business and life skills is available 24/7. The first step is recognizing that we all have opportunities to change and improve. The next step is to set aside some time to discover what those specific opportunities are for you. It is the latter that can cause the greatest challenge for most of us simply because we have such a hard time turning off the constant distractions of the day-to-day. Consider the opening statement from a March 2012 article in the Harvard Business Review: “Why is it that between 25 and 50 per cent of people report feeling overwhelmed or burned out at work? It’s not just the number of hours we’re working, but also the fact that we spend too many continuous hours juggling too many things at the same time. What we’ve lost, above all, are stopping points, finish lines and boundaries. Technology has blurred them beyond recognition. Wherever we go, our work follows us, on our digital devices, ever insistent and intrusive. It’s like an itch we can’t resist scratching, even though scratching invariably makes it worse.”
NE
W
Hopefully you are not part of the 50 percent who feel overwhelmed by your work. Hopefully you are living your life and strategizing your business, consciously taking time out on
some regular basis to ask yourself where you are going and if you are on track to get there. Being strategic and proactive can not only save your sanity, but it can help you maintain a competitive edge. It not only helps you understand your place in the market but it also allows you to methodically expand into new opportunities when you are ready to do so rather than feeling the need to react (or potentially overreact) to perceived market pressures around you. This industry is not the same as it was a century ago. It’s not even the same as it was 10 years ago. Change is a constant thing, and a regular review of business operations and goals helps to analyze how well we are evolving in this changing world. Companies that truly embrace continuous improvement continuously seek opportunities to improve the way they do what they do – operationally as well as technically. We should all be humble enough to recognize that a better way may exist, and challenge ourselves to find it. The entrepreneur in you determines where you’re taking your business. The manager in you determines how you are going to get there. The technician in you determines the skills it takes to get you there. When weighing out the options for further developing these various skills, I’d be remiss if I didn’t remind you that you can still pick up all of these at NCSG’s annual convention and trade show next month in Branson. Researching how we all tend to learn, American psychiatrist William Glasser noted that we learn 10% of what we read, 20% of what we hear, 30% of what we see, 50% of what we see and hear, 70% of what we discuss, 80% of what we experience, and 95% of what we teach others. Attending an industry conference like NCSG Innovation gives you opportunities to do all of the above!
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42 SWEEPING MARCH 13
Regardless of the method of continuous improvement you choose, now is the time to do it. It has been demonstrated time and time again that it is those who continue to challenge themselves and renew their perspectives that survive and thrive. It is those of who adapt to change and invest in themselves that set the bar for others to follow for years to come. So, what are you waiting for? There’s no better time than today to start being the change you want to be and create new habits that just might transform your world. Until next time, here’s to good advice and to your continued success!
Darwin Awards Have you snapped a photo of a peculiar chimney in your area that made you shake your head in disbelief? Send it to Melissa Heeke at mheeke@ncsg.org for publication in Sweeping. Or, mail it to NCSG, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168.
I guess if the caps are too close just cut out the screening, after all it’s still screened on 3 sides, to give you that extra inch. And yes, we evicted 2 squirrels just before Christmas. - Andrew Raycroft of Rooftop Chimney Sweeps, Ltd. in Alexandria, VA
Display Ad Index Page #
Advertiser
Phone
Email or Website Address
36 29-32 3 13 13 18 22 39 38 BC 4 5 IFC 17 9 37 44 11 6 7 14 27 15 8 42 19 16
Ahrens Chimney Technique Chimney Safety Institute of America ComfortGeni, LLC Duct Cleaners’ Supply Dynacote ENERVEX Inc. Firesafe Industries, Inc. Golden Flue, Inc ICP Lifetime Chimney Supply LLC Lindemann Chimney Company M&G DuraVent Massachusetts Chimney Sweep Guild Meyer Machine & Equipment National Chimney Olympia Chimney Supply Orion Safety Products Sand Hill Wholesale SaverSystems, Inc Smoktite Spark Marketer Sweeps America Thermocrete Wakefield Brush Whitecaps Wohler Z-Flex/Novaflex
800-582-1392 317-837-5362 317-650-5348 800-634-2822 866-439-0069 800-255-2923 800-545-6607 800-468-1052 508-695-7000 877-234-7473 800-722-7230 800-835-4429 781-233-2321 800-728-3828 800-897-8481 800-569-1425 800-637-7807 800-258-5496 800-860-6327 866-439-0069 855-646-3538 866-880-3473 866-439-0069 800-264-7007 800-335-2534 978-750-9876 800-654-5600
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One of our clients with a progressive and financially stable company in the Mid-Atlantic states is seeking a person who is interested in coming on board as a working technician, with the potential of moving into a leadership role as general manager and part owner to satisfy our needs for an exit plan. We offer a dynamic compensation plan. We are looking for this transition to occur over a 3 - 5 year time frame. Seeking an individual who may have their own business now but due to local economies or lack of funding would like to join a company which will bring you your own dreams. We are not seeking a buy in person from funds, rather a person who can buy in with their skills and talents and can assist us in our business exit plans. All replies will be in strict confidence. Please reply via email to jerry@ chimneyandventingconsultants.com
Operations Manager. Growing Hearth Retailer, Full service chimney company is seeking a candidate to oversee field operations. Installation, service, and repair. Must have minimum 5 Years’ experience in the industry and possess a CSIA certification, as well as NFI, MHP or specific certifications. Please send resumes to bob@chesterchimney.com.
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CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERS Members can run one 35 word classified free each year! Regularly 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 Megan McMahon at mmcmahon@ncsg.org or (317) 837-1500.
National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168
1303
As True As S teel Single Wall
Our customers remain loyal because we craft the highest quality stainless steel chimney liners while offering unrivaled customer service for the best buying experience. Smooth Wall
Bulletproof
LINERS
CONNECTORS
CAPS
TOP PLATES
Order Our Lining Systems
Call: 877.234.PIPE
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