Whether you are a homeowner or a real estate professional, you need to be aware of how to perform a chimney inspection with the help of Chimney Services. This guide will give you the information you need to ensure that your home is safe and efficient for your family.

Level 1 inspection

Whether you have a fireplace or not, you should have a chimney inspection at least once a year. This will give you peace of mind while lighting the fire or using your stove. It also can prevent future issues.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has three levels of inspections. The Level 1 inspection is a basic check, mainly looking for signs of damage and creosote buildup. The Level 2 inspection is more thorough, with the addition of video scanning equipment.

Using these special tools, the technician can get a more comprehensive look at areas that are difficult to access. The Level 2 inspection also includes visual inspection of the flue liners, as well as checking for combustible materials at accessible locations. The Level 3 inspection focuses on the concealed areas of the chimney structure.

The Level 3 inspection can cost anywhere from $500 to $5,000, depending on the size and complexity of the inspection. The cost may be prorated for multiple flues. It will also include an attic inspection.

The Level 2 inspection is required after structural changes are made to your chimney, including a change in system or fuel type. It is also recommended after a natural disaster, such as an earthquake.

An earthquake can cause interior cracks that can lead to fires and damage. It is also possible for a chimney to separate from the building, which can lead to collapse.

Common issues that require a chimney sweep

Having a chimney sweep come to your home can be an invaluable benefit. This professional will use specialized equipment and solutions to clean your chimney’s flue and walls. They will also remove any visible mold or mildew.

Whether you have a wood burning stove or fireplace, it is important to have your chimney swept every year. This will help prevent common issues like creosote buildup and rust.

Creosote is a natural byproduct of the burning process. When you don’t remove this, it can build up and damage the chimney flue and mortar. It also has the potential to spark a fire, which can be very dangerous to your home.

The chimney is a beautiful addition to your home. But, many homeowners don’t realize that chimneys need regular maintenance. If you don’t keep your chimney in good working order, you may have to pay a professional to repair it.

Some problems that you can find in your chimney include water damage, rust, cracks, and more. These problems can lead to leaks and odors inside your home. Some of these problems may not be visible, but they can be dangerous.

Another common problem is creosote buildup in your chimney. This can damage the mortar, bricks, and flue. It can also cause respiratory problems.

Level 2 inspection

Whether you are moving into a new home or preparing to sell your current residence, a chimney inspection is a great way to avoid unnecessary repairs. It can save you thousands of dollars in the future. Fortunately, there are several different kinds of inspections available.

There are three levels of inspections that are recommended by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Each level is meant to cover a specific aspect of the chimney’s overall health.

A level one inspection is the most basic. It will look for leaks, obstructions, and airflow problems. It also checks to make sure that the chimney is structurally sound. However, level one inspections may miss larger issues.

Level two inspections are more in-depth. They include a video scan of the interior of the flue. This is done with a telescopic camera that is inserted into the chimney. This gives the technician a better look at the surrounding areas. The technician also examines the joints, internal surfaces, and other areas of the chimney.

Level three inspections are for more serious hazards. They may require the removal of certain components of the chimney. These components could include the crown, the flue, and the finish. They may also require the removal of other components of the building.

Level three inspections can cost anywhere from $500 to $5,000. The cost will depend on the difficulty of the inspection.