Getting a Chimney Inspection regularly is one of the best things you can do for your home. This is a great way to ensure that your chimney is in tip-top shape, and it can also help to protect you from dangers such as carbon monoxide poisoning.
Check for creosote build-up
Depending on how frequently you use your fireplace, you may need to have it inspected regularly to ensure that it is working properly. A professional chimney sweep can inspect your fireplace to determine whether creosote build-up is present. If there is a build-up, it can be removed or prevented.
Creosote is a flammable byproduct of wood burning. It can be seen as crusty or sticky, and it can also appear shiny. It can also leave oily marks on the walls of your fireplace.
The risk of a chimney fire can be minimized by burning dry wood. If your fireplace is not venting correctly, you may also need to make sure that you have a good draft up the chimney. Poor draft can lead to smoldering fires, and can result in creosote build-up.
Check for obstructions
Whether you’re building a new home, buying a house, or just want to make sure you’re safe, regular chimney inspections are important. They can detect structural issues, so you can resolve them before they cause problems.
A typical level one inspection will check the flue, the fireplace and its connections, and look for leaks or other obstructions. It will also examine the masonry on the roof and inside the home.
A chimney fire is a serious risk. Not only will it put your home at risk of smoke and carbon monoxide gas, but it can also result in a backed-up mess that can get into your home and potentially cause a serious fire.
Other common issues include missing or cracked flue tiles and mortar joints. These can be repaired with tuckpointing. This involves cutting a thin groove in the center of a new mortar joint and filling it with contrasting mortar. It can cost $5 to $25 per square foot.
Check for damage from natural disasters and storms
Having a regular chimney inspection can help you avoid future headaches. This is especially true if you live in an area prone to natural disasters, such as hurricanes and earthquakes.
In short, a regular inspection can be a good idea for any homeowner. It can also help you save money. If you have a storm rippling through your area, it is important to document the damage and claim your insurance money. After all, the last thing you want to do is have to deal with the aftermath of a hurricane.
In a nutshell, a chimney inspection can identify leaks, detect structural issues, and tell you if your system is still up to par. It is also a good idea to waterproof your chimney to prevent water from getting in.
Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning
Keeping carbon monoxide poisoning at bay is critical for the safety of your family. This gas is odorless, tasteless and can cause serious health problems. It can affect people of all ages, but older adults and children are more vulnerable. It is particularly dangerous for those with heart and lung disease.
To keep your home safe from carbon monoxide, you should have your fuel burning appliances checked by qualified professionals every year. Make sure that they are vented outside. Also, your chimney needs to be clean and free of obstructions. If debris clogs your chimney, you may not be able to vent the gases properly.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of CO poisoning, you should seek medical attention immediately. You may not realize that your exposure is dangerous until you begin to feel sick.
Cost
Regardless of whether you have a single flue, multiple flues, or a masonry chimney, regular chimney inspections should be a part of your home maintenance routine. An inspection can uncover structural problems, such as cracks and leaks, that can cause damage or lead to house fires.
The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends that chimneys be inspected at least once a year. However, some homeowners may be required to have an inspection based on their homeowner insurance policy or after a natural disaster, such as a hurricane or earthquake.
The cost of an inspection will vary depending on the size of your chimney. In general, a level one inspection costs about $100. A more in-depth investigation, such as a level two inspection, is a bit more expensive.