SERVICES
At The Grate Revival, we offer expert chimney services and stove installations across the South Hams. Based in Churchstow near Kingsbridge, our dedicated team of HETAS-registered engineers provides everything from professional chimney sweeping and maintenance to full stove supply and installation. Whether you need a birds nest removed or thinking of upgrading your wood-burning stove, we deliver reliable, local and friendly service.
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CHIMNEY SWEEPING
We recommend having your chimney swept every 12 months to ensure optimal performance and safety. Regular sweeping removes soot, bird nests, and blockages—improving airflow and the efficiency of your appliance. Without routine maintenance, the risk of chimney fires, structural damage, and exposure to harmful gases such as carbon monoxide significantly increases.
Our HETAS-registered team not only sweeps your chimney but also carries out a thorough inspection of your appliance and flue. Upon completion, we issue a Chimney Sweep Certificate, which is now a requirement for most insurance policies.
Your safety is our top priority. We take pride in providing you with the peace of mind that your appliance is both clean and safe.
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INSTALLATION SERVICES
Our skilled team of HETAS-registered engineers are fully qualified to ensure your appliance is installed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all regulations. We pride ourselves on delivering a professional, friendly service and are committed to providing a positive customer experience from start to finish.
We offer a wide selection of multifuel and wood-burning stoves, hearths, fire surrounds, and non-combustible beams—ranging from traditional to contemporary styles. Browse our online catalogue to view the manufacturers we stock, or visit our showroom to explore our curated display in person.
Want to see our work in action? Check out our gallery to view previous projects, and visit our reviews page to hear from our satisfied clients.
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SERVICING & MAINTENENCE
We recommend servicing your stove annually—especially during periods of heavy use. Regular servicing ensures your appliance remains safe, efficient, and in good working order.
During a service, our engineers will strip down, inspect, and thoroughly clean the stove. We check all key components, including the glass, rope seals, fire bricks, and bodywork, to ensure they haven’t been compromised. If any parts show signs of excessive wear, we’ll replace them as needed.
As part of our service, we also test your carbon monoxide alarm to ensure it’s working correctly. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odourless gas that can be fatal if undetected. If you don’t yet have a CO alarm, we carry spares and can install one during our visit.
While we stock a wide range of replacement components, some parts may need to be ordered directly from the manufacturer. If you’re aware of specific issues ahead of your appointment, please email us with photos and your appliance details so we can prepare accordingly.
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CHIMNEY LINING & TWIN WALL SYSTEMS
An unlined chimney can deteriorate over time as hot smoke, tars, and acids erode mortar joints—leading to staining, structural damage, and potentially dangerous fume leaks. Installing a flue liner not only enhances safety but also improves the efficiency of your appliance.
Our qualified engineers can carry out comprehensive tests to determine whether your chimney would benefit from a liner. If required, we install 904-grade stainless steel flexible flue liners, which come with a 35-year warranty for long-term peace of mind.
For properties without a traditional chimney structure, we offer Twin Wall rigid chimney systems. These insulated stainless steel systems allow for safe flue routing either through the interior or externally up the side of a building. Twin Wall systems are highly durable and carry a 10-year warranty
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COWLS, CHIMNEY POTS & REPAIRS
Cowls offer effective solutions for a range of common chimney issues—from preventing downdrafts to keeping birds and debris out. We supply and install cowls in a variety of designs and finishes to suit both functional needs and aesthetic preferences. All our bird guards and anti-downdraft cowls are made from 100% stainless steel, ensuring durability against the corrosive sea air common in the South Hams.
In addition, we can supply and fit both new and reclaimed chimney pots, and carry out a variety of chimney repairs to keep your system in safe working order.
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SAFETY CHECKS FOR LANDLORDS & HOMEOWNERS
We provide comprehensive annual safety checks for chimneys and appliances, tailored for landlords, holiday home owners, and residential properties. By law, all rental and holiday lets must comply with current building regulations to ensure tenant safety.
Our safety checks are conducted by qualified HETAS engineers and include both a full sweep and detailed inspection of the appliance and flue system. Upon completion, we issue a three-part Safety Certificate—one copy for the landlord, one for the tenant, and one for our records.
As part of our annual safety record check, we carry out the following:
Chimney Sweep, Smoke Pressure Test, Flue Draught Measurement, Identification of Defects & Required, Remedial Actions, Ventilation Assessment, Location & Functionality of Safety Devices.This service ensures your appliance is compliant, well-maintained, and safe for continued use.
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CCTV CHIMNEY INSPECTIONS
CCTV inspections are a valuable diagnostic tool for identifying issues within chimneys and flue systems. Using infrared camera technology, we can capture clear internal images to pinpoint the source of problems without the need for invasive work.
Whether it's locating a blockage, identifying smoke leaks, assessing damage, or checking the integrity of a flue liner, CCTV inspections allow us to carry out detailed surveys quickly and efficiently—helping to determine the best course of action with minimal disruption.
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BIRD NEST REMOVAL
Bird nests in chimneys can pose serious safety risks. If left untreated, they can fully block the flue, preventing harmful combustion gases from escaping. This increases the risk of chimney fires and carbon monoxide poisoning—both of which can be fatal. Additionally, bird droppings may carry harmful bacteria that can cause disease.
We offer a professional bird nest removal service using specialist equipment designed to remove obstructions safely and efficiently. However, it is illegal to remove live nests during the nesting season (March–September). That’s why early intervention is crucial—if you spot signs of nesting, contact us immediately.
When caught early, we can remove the nests and install bird-proofing to prevent future activity and keep your flue safe and clear.
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CHIMNEY PRESSURE TESTS
Pressure tests are an essential method for assessing the safety and integrity of your chimney—particularly in older properties. Over time, internal corrosion from soot and external exposure to wind and salty sea air (common in the South Hams) can deteriorate the mortar within the flue, leading to leaks or even structural instability. These issues often go undetected in standard building surveys during property purchases.
A pressure test involves sealing both ends of the chimney and introducing smoke into the flue. This allows us to identify any leaks or weaknesses within the system.
We strongly recommend a pressure test if:
- You are re-commissioning an open fire
- You’ve recently purchased a property with an existing fireplace
- You suspect poor chimney performance or safety concernsThis inspection ensures your chimney is safe for use and compliant with modern safety standards.
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CREOSOTE & TAR REMOVAL
Creosote and tar buildup is typically caused by burning damp or unsuitable fuel. These deposits are highly combustible and extremely difficult to remove—often resistant to standard sweeping methods, including power sweeping.
We offer a specialist powder spray treatment designed to chemically break down tar and creosote deposits. Once activated, the treatment loosens the buildup, making it easier and safer to remove. In cases of heavy contamination, multiple applications may be necessary to fully clean the flue.
This service significantly reduces fire risk and helps restore the efficiency and safety of your chimney system.
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DRONE SURVEYS
Fully licensed and insured, we offer aerial inspections using high-resolution drone technology—an efficient and cost-effective alternative to scaffolding. This allows us to safely capture detailed images and video footage of your roof, chimney, and surrounding structures with minimal disruption.
Using the imagery we gather, our team can assess the condition of the area, compile a comprehensive written report, and recommend any necessary remedial work.