The Importance of a Chimney Inspection
There are many different reasons to have a chimney inspection. Whether you are a homeowner, a property manager, or a contractor, a chimney inspection is important. If you use a gas-heated appliance or a wood stove, you will want to ensure your chimney is working properly. It also helps to prevent creosote buildup.
Video Recording
Video recording a chimney inspection is a great way to save money and time on your next home repair. It allows you to see exactly what is wrong with your chimney. You can even watch the footage on a TV monitor or your tablet.
A video scan of your chimney can tell you everything from a small crack to the beginnings of rust and corrosion. That is why it’s important to have a qualified professional come to your home.
The National Fire Protection Association suggests having your chimney inspected at least once a year. It’s also wise to have it swept during the warmer months, as this reduces backlogs before the winter season hits.
Charleston Chimney Inspection companies offer special discounts during the warm weather, but you can do the cleaning yourself if you have the right tools and equipment. Depending on your chimney, a single flue may cost as little as a couple hundred dollars.
Level 2 Inspection
The level 2 chimney inspection may be more involved than its Level 1 counterpart. Having a qualified professional perform this examination before making major changes to your home’s system is a good idea. This will ensure your new home will be as safe as possible and protect you from costly repairs.
Video scanning technology is one of the key components of this type of inspection. Using a special high-definition video camera, the sweep will be able to assess the internal workings of your flue. For example, the video might look for cracks or damage to mortar joints.
Aside from the video, the level 2 chimney inspection will also include sweeping out the firebox and cleaning off any debris. These activities will ensure that the fireplace is free of combustibles. Afterward, the sweep will inspect nearby areas to ensure that your chimney has proper clearances.
Creosote Buildup
Creosote buildup in the chimney can be a fire hazard. It can also cause health problems. If your chimney is prone to creosote buildup, make sure you do an annual inspection. A qualified chimney sweep can tell you if the chimney is contaminated and can help you remove the buildup.
Creosote is a byproduct of burning wood in your fireplace or stove. The vapors from the fire cool to form a liquid and cling to the chimney lining. This tar-like substance is extremely flammable and can smolder. It condenses and mixes with other chemicals when the temperature rises to form smoke.
As a result, creosote can erode the lining of the chimney. The resulting buildup can block the flow of smoke, leaving your home exposed to toxic gases.
During a chimney inspection, you can tell if your chimney has built up creosote by looking at the soot that collects around your fireplace. Inspect your chimney with a flashlight. You may need to open the damper to get a better view.
Gas-Heated Appliances
Getting an annual chimney inspection for gas-heated appliances is one of the best ways to ensure that your system is venting properly. Not only will it keep you and your family safe, but it will also extend the life of your heating equipment.
Gas-heated appliances use a masonry chimney as their venting system. This type of system is especially vulnerable to damage and corrosion. The chimney’s interior can spell and flake off, resulting in unsafe conditions.
If you’re considering installing new gas-heated appliances, you should get a level 2 chimney inspection. These inspections include video scanning technology to check for minor flue system anomalies. A certified Clean Chimney Sweep Charleston will perform this inspection.
