The Benefits of a Video Scan Chimney Inspection
There are two things that go hand-in-hand: owning an active fireplace and the need for an annual inspection. Most homeowners schedule these between the conclusion of the colder months and the end of summer. However, there’s an extra step that might make a big difference in the longevity of your chimney, a video scan. Here are some benefits of a fireplace chimney scan and why you may want to request one for your next inspection.
Why you need a basic chimney inspection
There are many reasons to schedule an annual chimney inspection. Most of those come down to safety. A chimney inspection can identify problems with your chimney, such as spalling or cracked bricks, a missing chimney cap, or an excessive build-up of creosote within your flue.
A chimney inspection is a proactive method of ensuring that it’s safe to operate your fireplace. However, even if you have an unused chimney, such as in a house that used to use a wood-burning stove, it’s a good idea to have it inspected from time to time. Why, exactly? After all, it’s not being used so why should a technician look at it?
That’s because chimney materials break down over time. Masonry is porous, clay tiles can crack, and caps can rust. Those all lead to the potential of water damage to your home.
What is a Level 2 chimney inspection?
That is, of course, the role of a basic chimney inspection. The next step up from that is called a Level 2 inspection, and it brings with it a more in-depth review and analysis of your chimney system. Indeed, a Level 2 inspection is required in a few situations, namely if you plan to sell your home. The primary tool that your Northeastern Chimney technician will use during a Level 2 inspection is a video scan.
The benefits of a chimney scan
A Level 2 inspection can uncover problematic weak points. Some of the benefits of a fireplace chimney scan include:
• Identifying leaks or places where water is pooling;
• Finding internal damage, such as missing clay flue tiles deep in your chimney;
• Locating damage, including internal spalling bricks, deteriorated masonry, or evidence of voids within your flue;
• And seeing debris or obstructions, indicative of some kind of gap in the preventive protection components of your system.
Beyond that, a chimney scan helps to ensure your chimney is safe to operate while also providing adequate documentation for your insurance company in case you were to have an incident.
Without a Level 2 scan, the insurance adjustor may deny the claim. Some localities require that a home with an active fireplace system must have a Level 2 inspection before it can be bought or sold. A chimney video scan will provide the necessary reassurance to the buyer that the home they’re purchasing is safe.
From scans to sweeps, our team can help!
Our team is fully equipped to handle all types of chimney sweeps and maintenance tasks, from a basic Level 1 inspection to video scans during Level 2 inspections. We’re CSIA-certified and happy to help with all of your needs. Would you like to learn more about our services? Contact Northeastern Chimney, LLC at 860-233-5770 or book your appointment via our short online form.
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