Did you know that an annual chimney inspection can help prevent fires and carbon monoxide exposure? According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there have been years with over 18,300 home fires starting in chimneys, fireplaces, and solid fuel appliances in the U.S., resulting in injuries, fatalities, and significant property damage.
When Should You Inspect Your Chimney?
Annual inspections are essential for safety and efficiency, and having a professional conduct them is crucial. The NFPA advises yearly inspections for all fireplaces and chimneys. Additionally, immediate inspections are necessary under certain circumstances, such as:
- Following a chimney fire
- After severe weather events like lightning or wind damage
- Before purchasing a home, alongside the general home inspection
- When installing or removing gas logs
Insurance claims related to chimney fires often involve professional chimney sweeps to determine the fire’s origin or assess damage. At Chimney Guys, our technicians are equipped to handle all your chimney-related concerns.
Why Schedule an Annual Inspection?
While storks nesting in chimneys were once considered lucky, bird nests or any blockages spell trouble today. They can lead to chimney fires, smoking issues, and carbon monoxide poisoning. Many assume only wood-burning fireplaces need regular checks, but all heating appliances, whether gas, oil, wood, or coal-powered, use chimneys to vent harmful gases. A carbon monoxide detector alerts you to danger after gases enter your home; an annual inspection helps prevent such occurrences.
What is an Internal Video Evaluation?
Our internal video evaluation involves inserting a camera into your chimney to inspect its condition, accessible from the rooftop or firebox, ensuring a thorough assessment. Not every inspection needs this, but it’s available if specific issues arise.
How Long Does a Chimney Inspection Take?
If you own a home with a fireplace, you’re probably aware of the importance of scheduling annual chimney inspections. But how much time should you set aside for one? The duration of a chimney inspection can vary based on several factors such as the inspection level, the size and condition of your chimney, and its accessibility.
Factors Influencing Inspection Time
- Chimney Size: Larger chimneys naturally take longer to inspect.
- Chimney Condition: If your chimney has damage or requires significant repairs, the inspection will likely take longer.
- Accessibility: Chimneys that are hard to reach or located on high roofs may extend the inspection time.
- Weather Conditions: Cold, wet, or windy weather can slow down the inspection process.
Preparing for Your Chimney Inspection
You don’t need to do anything to prepare for us, we will take care of everything. Our technicians pride themselves on making the process as seamless as possible for our customers.
What to Expect During the Inspection
The inspector will check all accessible parts of your chimney for problems. Here’s what they typically do:
- Exterior Check: The inspector examines the chimney cap, crown, and flashing for cracks or leaks.
- Interior Check: They will look at the firebox, flue liner, and damper for cracks or blockages that could impact safety or performance.
- Fireplace/Stove Check: They’ll assess your fireplace or stove, including the back wall of masonry fireplaces, and harth to ensure everything’s in good working condition.
After the Chimney Inspection
Once the inspection is complete, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining the findings with photos, if you want a report. If issues are discovered, Chimney Guys will recommend necessary repairs or maintenance to keep your chimney functioning safely and efficiently. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into more severe problems.
Take this opportunity to ask any questions about the next steps. Once everything is settled and a plan is in place, the inspectors will pack up, leaving your home as they found it.
Do Home Inspections Include Chimneys?
When buying a home, comprehensive inspections are necessary, including fireplaces and chimneys. Home inspectors may glance at chimneys, but lack the expertise to diagnose issues, so scheduling an inspection with a certified technician is essential before buying or selling.
Contact Chimney Guys Today
Regular chimney inspections are crucial for safety, efficiency, and peace of mind. Before buying a home, ensure thorough inspections by professionals, and continue annual maintenance once you’ve settled in. Call us 704-231-7682 or schedule online to keep your home safe and cozy.