What to Know About Chimney Inspections

Chimney inspections and cleanings are a must to keep your chimney in good working order. A chimney inspection is a project that you may want to try and undertake yourself, but it’s something that needs to be performed by a professional chimney inspector. They understand how a chimney works and the telltale signs of chimney damage. With that in mind, here are some things you need to know about chimney inspections.

What is a Chimney Inspection?

In a chimney inspection, a tech will examine your chimney for damaged mortar joints, cracked chimney crowns, and crumbling brick. They will also inspect the chimney’s interior to ensure that the flue tiles are intact and won’t contribute to a chimney fire.

Some other common issues a chimney inspector will look for are creosote buildup from fires over the winter and blockages inside the chimney, such as wildlife that may have built a nest in it. There could be damage or defects in the firebox or flue that could be dangerous that you may not spot. The chimney tech examining your fireplace and chimney will also look for leaks that could do long-term damage to your chimney.

There are three levels in total involved in a chimney inspection. The first level is to inspect the structural integrity of your chimney. It consists of checking the interior walls, the flue liner, mortar joints, and chimney crown. The chimney inspector will locate any obstructions or if a buildup of soot exists.

The second level of a chimney inspection will look for structural damage to the chimney from things such as hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and fire. The chimney inspector performing the inspection will have instruments designed specifically to measure structural integrity. This level of inspection is a must when preparing to sell a house or file an insurance claim.

Why is a Chimney Inspection Needed?

The main reason to have your chimney inspected is to reduce the risk to you and your family. You can’t completely eliminate all fire and carbon monoxide issues that could arise, but a chimney inspector can make them less likely to occur; this is why chimney inspections are needed. Their experience, training, and knowledge allow them to quickly spot issues with your chimney before they happen.

After a chimney inspector has examined your chimney, you can feel secure in the knowledge that it is safe, and you can enjoy months of use from your fireplace, stove, or furnace.

How Often Should Your Chimney Be Inspected?

The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends that a chimney be inspected prior to purchasing a house and then annually. It really does depend on the amount your use your chimney; if you are using it daily over a six-month period, more soot and creosote are likely to compile inside it, and you may need to have an inspection before twelve months has passed.

Why Are Chimney Inspectors Qualified?

Be sure that when your chimney is inspected, it’s by a qualified tech. How can you tell if a chimney inspector is qualified? A qualified chimney inspector will have certification from either the National Fireplace Institute or the Chimney Institute of America. Be sure that your chimney inspector can produce their credentials before allowing them to inspect your fireplace.

It’s vital to verify a chimney inspector’s credentials before allowing them to examine your chimney because many scam artists are seeking to take advantage of you. Never let someone show up at your door or call you unsolicited to inspect your chimney. Not only is it likely they are not qualified to inspect your chimney, but they may actually damage it during inspection to convince you your chimney needs repair
and their company is who can fix it. These kinds of scams are aimed at
the elderly most of the time. Be sure to protect yourself and your loved
ones by ensuring the person inspecting your chimney is certified.

Hudson Valley Chimney Incorporated Can Examine Your Chimney

Let Hudson Valley Chimney Inspect your chimney. Our techs are CSIA Certified, fully licensed, and insured. Give us a call; one of our helpful staff will schedule an inspection time at your convenience. Get the peace of mind a chimney inspection can give you while safeguarding your home.