During the season of fuel and fires, ventilation and maintenance, it’s important to not cut corners. Cutting corners when it comes to your fireplace and chimney can result in serious damage to your home, costly services to your chimney system, and even injury and possible loss of life. In order for your chimney to work safely and efficiently all winter long and year after year, it must be maintained properly and used correctly. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) help to keep fire in its place by educating responsible homeowners to schedule routine chimney sweeps and annual chimney inspections. This ensures the safest and most efficient systems.

The Danger of Dirty Chimneys

When a fire burns in your fireplace it constantly produces soot and creosote and deposits them into the chimney flue. Soot is merely carbon, harmless unless it’s allowed to buildup and cause an obstruction. Creosote is produced when organic materials are burned and is made up mostly of tar, a sticky, flammable substance. It builds upon itself until a significant buildup occurs, slowing the flow of air through the flue. As efficiency drops, the buildup worsens and hot air begins to stall in the system. As temperatures increase, the creosote boils and the water evaporates leaving a concentrated, hardened mass when the creosote cools. This buildup called “glazed creosote” is highly flammable, obstructs airflow, and is difficult to remove. Because of this, creosote should be removed before it reaches 1/8 inch in thickness. A standard chimney sweep can remove creosote, but glazed creosote requires a special industrial solvent that transforms the creosote as it’s absorbed.

Creosote buildup is not the only danger of a dirty chimney. If your chimney isn’t cleaned on a regular basis the creosote and soot can hide liner damage, allowing the heat to transfer through the masonry and onto the other building materials of the home. This can create a serious fire hazard. Additionally, without a routine sweep, you might have accumulated any number of things in your flue or fireplace. Animals, sticks and leaves, and unburned wood are all things that we find in neglected chimney systems—all contributing to unwelcome odors and ventilation problems.

The Importance of Inspections

It’s so important to have your chimney inspected as well as cleaned that most chimney companies include a basic level one inspection with every cleaning! An inspection will ensure that the system is safe and efficient for another year of use. However, who completes the inspection is vital. Only a certified chimney sweep should inspect your chimney system. An amateur won’t know where to look and a homeowner won’t recognize the signs of a problem until it’s too late. Every chimney should undergo a CSIA inspection annually. This is a complete diagnostic assessment of the chimney from top to bottom. Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep offers level one, two, and three CSIA inspections for homeowners in and around Boston, North Shore, and Portland. Not only do we inspect every chimney that we sweep, but we sweep every chimney we inspect.

If your chimney system hasn’t changed or shown any problems in the last year, our technician will complete a level one inspection. This is an inspection of all the readily accessible portions of the system. The video scan is usually only available for a level two inspection, but we check every chimney with video surveillance. We use a Chim-Scan camera system and Wohler Vis2000-Pro for an inside look at the flue.

A level two inspection is necessary in the following conditions; if there have been changes made to the chimney system, if it’s presented problems, and before the sale or transfer of the property. It includes everything from a level one inspection as well as everything accessible through doors and passageways.

A level three inspection is only necessary when a serious hazard is suspected, but at this point, it is the only thing to get your system up and going again.

Common Chimney Dangers

Besides creosote buildup, there are numerous problems that can arise when a chimney isn’t properly cleaned and maintained. At Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep we diagnose winter damage most often—masonry damage that results in a serious drop in efficiency and rise in fire risk. Another common hazard that we see quite often is a damaged firebox. The firebox is the space that holds the fire. It endures the highest temperatures for the longest amounts of time but gets very little attention. Though many focus only on flue fires, the fire hazard associated with a damaged firebox may be the most serious. Prolonged heat exposure through damaged firebricks can cause structural damage as support beams become brittle with heat damage. A similar danger can arise when the liner is damaged and heat transfers through the masonry. Insulation in walls and attics can ignite as heat moves from the chimney into the home.

As with most residential fires, chimney and fireplace fires can be prevented. It is our goal to help our customers, friends, and neighbors in our service area to stay safer and warmer this winter by offering services that prevent fires.

Schedule your services now by calling 617-469-4528 or schedule an appointment online today.

The post Keep Your Fire In Its Place This Winter appeared first on Billy Sweet Chimney Sweep.

After installing a fireplace, most homeowners think the only thing they have to do is to clean it. Far from this, as chimneys develop a gamut of problems that put you and your loved ones at risk. Some of the things that can go wrong with your fireplace as given by chimney contractors include:

Cracked firebox

The firebox is the area where you light a fire. The area is made from special bricks designed to stand fire at extreme temperatures. Just like the flue, the firebox develops gaps and cracks. A damaged firebox has the same effects as a damaged chimney flue:

• Chimney loses a lot of heat
• Increased creosote deposition
• Risk of carbon monoxide intoxication

For you to fix the problem, find new bricks that closely resemble the original color. After completing the brickwork, cover the area with a layer of waterproof caulking, that will keep the chimney from water damage.

The layer will also prevent heat and gas from escaping through the gaps.

Just like with the chimney flue, you can do the work by yourself if you have the skills or hire an expert to help you out. When hiring a chimney technician, ensure the professional is experienced and won’t cause more chimney problems than were originally there.

The price charged by the contractors will guide you on how experienced they are. If they are too cheap, they are most likely inexperienced and won’t give you an excellent service.

You are better off hiring an experienced contractor. While they will charge a higher fee, they provide you with peace of mind as you know the chimney is correctly repaired, and you don’t have to keep worrying it crumbing.

Cracking of the flue

Modern chimneys have a flue lining made of clay. Due to old age or inadequate maintenance, the flue liners crack or develop gaps. A damaged flue leads to heat loss; hence, you spend a lot of money heating your home. The damaged flue also easily collects creosote, so you have to keep on cleaning the chimney.

If the gaps are significant, carbon monoxide and other harmful gases accumulate in the gaps putting you and your loved ones in danger of inhaling the toxic gases.

With basic home improvement skills, you can fix the problem by yourself, but for perfect results, ask a chimney expert to help you out. Depending on the extent of damage, you may have to seal the gap, but if the damage is extensive, you have to replace the damaged bricks.

When choosing bricks, go for those that match the color of the original chimney.

Smoking chimney

When the chimney is constructed correctly, adequately maintained, and there isn’t any negative pressure, the smoke from the fireplace should always rise up the chimney. If the chimney always smokes when you light fire, you have a problem you should address as soon as possible.

The chimney smokes due to the use of the wrong firewood. A damaged chimney also tends to keep on smoking. For you to fix the problem, get seasoned wood. In addition to the wood producing little smoke, it also creates a lot of heat, so you easily keep your house warm.

To raise the center of the frame, raise the height of the log grate by placing a brick under the grill. You also should consider investing is a smoke guard that prevents smoke from getting back into the house. When buying the guard, go for a black colored one as it easily hides in the fireplace.

If this doesn’t fix the smoking, raise the chimney stack. You do this by placing a metal pipe on the top of the flue.

Too much creosote in the chimney

Creosote is the tar-like material made up of highly flammable materials. When you have a lot of creosote in the fireplace, it means you don’t clean the chimney as frequently as you should. You also might be burning the wrong wood.

To reduce the creosote, hire a chimney sweep Columbia MD at least once a year to inspect the creosote levels and remove the excess. You also should watch the quality of the wood you are using. For minimal creosote deposition, use wood that has been air-dried for at least six months.

This post first appeared on https://www.firstclasschimneyservices.com

The chimney cap is one of the most vital parts of a chimney. Its primary purpose is to protect the masonry chimney crown & open flue. There are two kinds of chimney caps. Many fireplaces, especially in older homes, have an open style chimney cap that was made from leftover cement and mortar from the original chimney construction. It is sloped to help push water and snow away from the chimney, but the flue is still exposed. The other kind of cap contains a metal mesh screen that covers the flue opening. It has an added advantage of helping to prevent animals, pests, and debris from obstructing the flue while still allowing smoke and fumes to vent. Regardless of the type of chimney cap you have, it will eventually need replacement.

Water and debris in the firebox

Water is the mortal enemy of the chimney. It can soften the masonry leading to extensive damage and repairs. And if water and debris are getting into your fireplace, then smoke and fumes may also be invading your living space. When this occurs, the chimney cap should be inspected and replaced if damaged. Otherwise, you will need a more thorough inspection to determine the source of the water intrusion.

Your cap blew off

Although the chimney cap is tightly secured to the chimney crown, its continued exposure to strong winds and heavy rain could cause it to loosen or blow off the chimney. Also, your chimney cap may not have been installed correctly in the first place. The wrong size cap or incorrect installation can also cause it to separate from the chimney. When you look up at the roof and notice the chimney cap is missing, it is time for an immediate replacement.

Excessive presence of rust

You should also replace the chimney cap when it begins to rust or corrode. The continuous exposure to moisture, creosote, and other contaminants can result in rust or corrosion and weaken its effectiveness. When the chimney cap is heavily rusted, it can easily rip apart. Even small animals looking for shelter can force their way through the weakened mesh and obstruct the flue.

Your experiencing downdrafts

On windy days, a sudden gust of wind can force air straight down the stack. It can also be very messy when soot, creosote, and ash are blown into your living space. A damaged or missing chimney cap is usually the culprit. Replacing the chimney cap will minimize downdrafts.

A structurally sound and well-installed chimney cap is vital to preventing water intrusion and flue obstructions. It will also protect the chimney crown and minimize chimney repairs. If it’s been more than a year since your last chimney inspection, give us a call to schedule a visit. We will inspect the chimney cap and recommend replacement, if necessary. In most cases, we can install your new chimney cap during the same visit.

 

The post When Should A Chimney Cap Be Replaced? appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.

The quintessential wood stove is an indispensable source of heat for many homeowners, especially in older homes built before the arrival of central air. And since modern wood stoves are more environmentally friendly than ever before, they have grown in popularity. But whether you use a wood stove for primary or supplemental heating, you need to make sure you are operating the appliance safely.

Annual Inspection & Cleaning 

There is no way around it; an annual inspection is vital. It is your first line of defense that ensures your wood stove, stovepipe, and chimney is safe for use. A yearly inspection will uncover any issues that could increase the risk of fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. For example, the technician will visually examine the chimney liner. It is unsafe to operate a wood stove if the liner is damaged or if the chimney is unlined. Other potential issues such as cracked bricks, gaps in the mortar joints, water leaks, and other masonry problems could result in health and safety issues.

The technician will also advise if cleaning is recommended. Excessive creosote is the leading cause of residential structure fires. When there is 1/8” or more of creosote in the chimney, stovepipe, or stove, its immediate removal is strongly encouraged. Also, always hire a Certified Chimney Sweep® for cleaning and inspection. It is your assurance that the technician not only has professional training and expertise but will also follow established industry standard guidelines.

Always Use the Right Fuel

Always use firewood that has been seasoned for at least six months. Fresh or “green” wood has a very high moisture content. Firewood that contains a high moisture content burns faster at lower temperatures and creates a lot of smoke and creosote. On the other hand, seasoned wood burns slower at higher temperatures with less smoke and creosote. It’s safer, will keep your home warmer longer, and you will use less fuel.

Correctly Vent the Stovepipe

The stovepipe vents the smoke and fumes in the wood-stove out through the chimney. It is unsafe to use a stovepipe without connecting it to an approved chimney system. A combination of high temperatures along with CO2 gases along with creosote buildup inside the stovepipe can start a fire. Periodically cleaning the stovepipe and ensuring it is correctly vented to the chimney reduces the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Keep Combustibles Away from the Stove

While much of the heat is contained inside the stove, it’s exterior, and the stovepipe can get quite hot. Keep clothing and any flammable objects or liquids a safe distance from the heating stove and stove pipe.

Install a CO2 Detector

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is a byproduct of burning solid and liquid fuel. And its consequences can be deadly. For your safety, it is highly recommended to install a CO2 detector. The detector will sound an alert if carbon monoxide gas is leaking into your living space.

When operated safely, your wood stove will reduce your heating costs and keep your family warm on those chilly days. Contact us to schedule your annual inspection and cleaning with a certified chimney technician today!

This post first appeared on https://www.mychimney.com

Today’s wood stoves make elegant and useful additions to any home. They’re efficient and beautiful and give you years of performance. You can enhance the performance and safety of your wood heating stove by following these seven tips.

1. Burn dry wood

Dry, or seasoned, wood burns far more efficiently than green, or unseasoned, wood. This means less smoke and more-complete burns. Less smoke means less flammable creosote in your stove pipe and firebox

2. Don’t use these items to start a fire

 

Free-standing wood stoves are designed to burn wood logs. The only other material you should use in your stove is crumpled-up newspaper as tinder when starting the fire.

The following items should never be used in your stove:
• Wood that’s been painted or “finished”
• Material including clothing and fabric
• Gasoline, lighter fluid and any other fire-starter
• Charcoal
• Magazines
• Packaging material
• Cardboard
• Christmas trees

3. Smoke detectors & carbon monoxide monitors

It’s very important to have working smoke detectors and a carbon monoxide (CO) monitor when using any kind of fire-producing heating appliance. Smoke detectors will alert you to excess smoke and possibly a fire. CO monitors placed in the vicinity of the stove will tell you if unacceptable levels of this deadly gas are somehow entering your home from the stove. The danger with CO is that it’s invisible, odorless and potentially fatal to people and animals.

4. Maintaining your wood stove

The primary maintenance job with a wood stove is to periodically clean out the firebox. Wait 12 or more hours since the last fire, then scoop out the ashes and place them in a metal container prior to disposing them in whatever safe way you choose. Use a wire brush to scrape creosote and soot (too much of which could create a fire hazard) from the interior surfaces of the firebox. Finish with a thorough vacuuming.

5. Removing creosote

Over time, creosote will build up inside your stove’s vent pipe and must be removed. The safest and most effective way to accomplish this is with the services of a certified chimney sweep.

These technicians have power brushes, solvents, scrapers and other tools designed to do an excellent job in removing built-up creosote from any kind of heating appliance vent system.

6. Removing debris

Any kind of debris that makes its way into your stove pipe will create an obstruction that will hinder the drafting of smoke and gasses. Leaves, twigs, small-animal nests or anything else from the outside world that infiltrates your vent pipe can lead to unsafe operating conditions. Skilled chimney sweeps can remove any venting obstructions.

7. Regular inspections

A final way to ensure the safety of your free-standing stove is to schedule yearly inspections from a certified, licensed chimney and stove inspector. This assessment will spot early signs of damage so they can be fixed quickly and save you the cost of extensive repairs.
Fluesbrothers Chimney Service of Kansas City, KS, provides complete vent system cleaning, chimney sweep services, fireplace and stove repair and thorough inspections of all supplemental home-heating appliances. Schedule an appointment or get your questions answered by calling (913) 236-7141.

The post 7 Wood Stove Safety Tips appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, seven people die every day from home fires – taking more lives each year than all other natural disasters in the U.S. Fire Prevention Month helps educate families about the dangers of fires, how easy it can be for fires to start, and how much easier it can be to prevent them.

This October, we invite you to learn about better ways to prevent fires, including methods such as inspecting your heat sources, maintain your electrical cords, and updating your smoke alarms.

We suggest that every household establish a family emergency action plan, discuss escape routes with family members, and locate fire extinguishers in your home. Additionally, you can conduct a mock fire drill with your family members to ensure you and your loved ones know how to get out safely. During this drill, outline meeting places that are at a safe distance from the home. Designate a neighbor to contact for help in the event of an emergency.

Simple exercises such as these could mean the difference-maker in your family, even making it out alive in the event of a fire in your home.

Fire safety awareness in the workplace is crucial as well. Review your emergency action plan, communicate supervisory roles, and walk evacuation routes with your team. October is the perfect time to conduct a fire drill before a real-life event occurs. Ensure nobody is left behind, and all are in tune with the life safety route!

Here are the critical components to ensuring your home and workplace are fireproof:

Eliminate Clutter

Clutter can easily become a fuel source in the event of a fire, allowing a fire to spread quickly. Furthermore, clutter can restrict access to emergency equipment and exit routes.

Inspect your Fireplace and Heating flue

Third-degree creosote buildup is highly flammable. Regular maintenance on your chimney and flue is imperative for fireplace and heating exhaust venting.

Designate Smoking Areas

Permit smoking only in designated smoking areas and provide means for extinguishing smoking materials safely.

Fire Extinguishers

Maintain the appropriate type and number of fire extinguishers. Conduct monthly and annual extinguisher inspections to ensure they are in good, working condition. Provide training for employees on the correct use of fire extinguishers.

Chemical Safety

Use and store chemicals safely. Read hazard warning labels and safety data sheets to determine flammability and other fire hazards. Ensure your chemical storage areas provide adequate ventilation for the storage of chemicals or other hazardous substances.

Waste Control & Storage

Limit the accumulation of flammable or combustible materials and residues to prevent the risk of such materials contributing to a fire emergency.

Contact Information

Home and work should have access to a list of emergency contact phone numbers in case of emergency. Remember that human nature is to panic in emergencies; therefore, basics such as important phone numbers and building floor plans should be posted on or with the emergency action plan.

We want to remind you to test your smoke detectors to be sure they’re functioning properly.

Try to remember to test your smoke detectors monthly and replace them accordingly. Be sure to check the expiration date! They should be changed out immediately if they have expired.

It is much better to be proactive rather than reactive, and it is best to put these preventive tactics in place now and not end up in crisis mode.

Wishing you safety and warmth,

The Team at Boston’s Best

The post October is National Fire Prevention Month! Here’s What You Need to Know. appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Within the fireplace and chimney services industry, the 2016 scuffle between the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and Angie’s List is fairly well-known. For those of you not familiar with the issue, here’s the thumbnail version.

Angie’s List, a popular article mill, posted a piece that implied that homeowners could properly clean their own chimneys. Knowing this was false, misleading and dangerous information, the CSIA got to work and forced Angie’s List to remove the article titled “How to Clean Your Chimney.”

 

In a letter to the president of Angie’s List, shown here on the CSIA blog, CSIA President Mark A. Stoner wrote:

“Encouraging the average homeowner, who does not meet the (National Fire Protection Association’s) definition of a ‘qualified agency’, to perform his or her own chimney service [. . .] is not only irresponsible and negligent but could lead directly to the loss of life or property due to a chimney fire or carbon monoxide intrusion into the residence.”

Stoner continued: “By posting this article to its website and promoting it via social media, Angie’s List has effectively endorsed this content and it should be held liable for any and all damages ensuing from a homeowner’s adherence to instructions therein.”

Why DIY chimney cleaning is not recommended

Mark Stoner of the CSIA was right in pulling out all the stops to get Angie’s List to remove that article. While there are some fireplace and chimney maintenance tasks the average homeowner can perform safely and effectively (cleaning the firebox; doing a general inspection of chimney masonry or some of the chimney’s components), cleaning creosote out of a chimney is not one of them.

Professional chimney sweeps go through a rigorous process to obtain valued certifications from the CSIA and other hearth-industry agencies. These include:

• Certified Chimney Professional
• Certified Master Chimney Technician
• Certified Chimney Sweep
• Certified Chimney Reliner

Individuals who hold these and other high-level certifications have demonstrated that they understand the multiple elements of a chimney’s operation and structure and have shown specific expertise in using the tools and equipment that are industry-standard in cleaning chimneys.

Don’t let a “handyman” work on your chimney

When you allow an untrained individual to clean or do other work on your chimney, you’re setting yourself up for some potentially serious problems.

Creosote, which forms in a chimney every time wood burns, is highly flammable and is the cause of most chimney fires in the U.S. each year. Cleaning creosote out of a chimney often is a challenging job – even for a professional. Creosote can present as a flakey, sticky or solid substance. Each form requires specific actions for effective removal.

Certified chimney sweeps make use of electric and hand brushes, specialized solvents, scrapers, vacuums and other equipment to safely remove creosote without damaging the chimney’s interior masonry or liner.

Just as you would only go to a qualified physician to perform an important medical procedure, you should only hire a qualified, certified chimney sweep to clean your chimney. This professional will know a lot more about the cleaning process and chimneys in general than any “average” person.

High’s Chimney Service of Gaithersburg, MD, is staffed with trained, experienced, certified chimney professionals. When we clean your chimney, you’ll have the peace of mind that comes from knowing it was done correctly and in accord with all safety precautions. Give us a call at (301) 519-3500 for your next professional chimney service.

 

The post Chimney Sweeps vs. DIY for Chimney Cleaning & Service appeared first on Highs Chimney.

Getting the most out of your fireplace and the wood you burn in it is easy, if you follow these six tips on efficient and safe wood-burning practices.

1. Seasoned woods

Seasoned wood has had time to fully dry and won’t produce nearly as much smoke as damp or unseasoned wood. Give your firewood plenty of time to dry out, and you’ll enjoy fires that are easier to start and that thoroughly burn all your logs.

To aid in the drying process, if you cut your own wood, make sure to store it in a place not susceptible to rain. Cover the stack with a tarp, but leave the sides open so air can get in. Finally, use pallets or a similar structure to keep the wood several inches off the ground, which may be wet or damp.

2. Hardwood vs. softwood

All wood feels hard to the touch, but some wood types are harder than others. Hardwoods like hickory and maple are very dense and produce longer and hotter burns than cedar, pine and other softwoods, which are lighter and more porous. Consider this when deciding how long you want your fire to stay active.

3. The best way to start your fire

Start by stacking logs in a way that allows for air to get in between them. Logs packed too tightly together is a major cause of fires that burn sluggishly. On top of the stack, place a good amount of smaller wood scraps, or kindling. On top of the kindling, add some crumpled-up newspaper to serve as tinder. Burn your fire from the top down for the best results.

4. What not to burn in your fireplace

Clean, unfinished wood and small amounts of newspaper are the only items that should burn in your fireplace. Never use the following:

Household trash

Cardboard boxes/pressed wood/particle board

Accelerants such as lighter fluid and gasoline

Styrofoam containers

Plastic material

Christmas trees

Clothing or any other fabric

5.  proper drafting 

The space between your logs provides needed oxygen to your fire, but a good draft circulation is necessary to really get a fire going. Achieve a proper draft by:

Making sure your fireplace damper is fully open

Keeping your chimney flue free of obstructions such as built-up creosote and outside debris

Cracking a window or two if your home is particularly air-tight

6. Schedule yearly chimney cleaning

A clean chimney assists in producing a great fire, but it also keeps you and your family safe by reducing the chance of a chimney fire. Certified chimney sweeps use specialized tools and equipment to safely remove creosote from chimneys. Many people don’t realize it, but the majority of chimney fires in the U.S. each year are caused by chimney creosote that has ignited, not simply because the inside of the chimney has overheated.

By following these tips for burning wood in your fireplace, you’ll be in for many years of warmth and enjoyment – and safety.

When it’s time for professional chimney cleaning, chimney inspection or chimney repair work, the experts at Northeastern Chimney of West Hartford, CT, are ready to help. Give us a call at (860) 233-5770.

 

This post first appeared on https://www.mychimney.com

Southern Chimneys will help you figure out the level of inspection you need.

Do you realize how important your chimney is to the health and safety of your home? It’s one of the major components of your home’s safety and energy costs, yet it often gets ignored. Southern Chimneys is out to change that! If it’s been over a year since you’ve had one…it’s time for a chimney inspection. 

Chimney Inspection Levels

There are technically three levels of inspection set by the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) and followed by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). We’ll let you know right from the jump that Southern Chimneys typically performs a Level 2 Inspection and that’s what you’ll most likely need from us. But what are the three types? (taken from the CSIA website)

Level 1 –  this is a general, visual, 18-pt., safety inspection that can determine if and when work is needed to be done at the lowest cost. If your appliance or your venting system has not changed and you plan to use your system as you have in the past, then a Level 1 inspection is a minimum requirement. A Level 1 inspection is recommended for a chimney under continued service, under the same conditions, and with the continued use of the same appliance.

​In a Level 1 inspection, your technician will be looking for the basic soundness of the chimney structure and flue as well as the basic appliance installation and connections. The technician will also verify the chimney is free of obstruction and combustible deposits.

Level 2 –  A Level 2 inspection is required when any changes are made to the system. Changes can include a change in the fuel type, changes to the shape of, or material in the flue (i.e. relining), or the replacement or addition of an appliance of a dissimilar type, input rating or efficiency. Additionally, a Level 2 inspection is required upon the sale or transfer of a property or after an operation malfunction or external event that is likely to have caused damage to the chimney. Building fires, chimney fires, seismic events as well as weather events are all indicators that this level of inspection is warranted.

There are no specialty tools (i.e. demolition equipment) required to open doors, panels or coverings in performing a Level 2 inspection. A Level 2 inspection shall also include a visual inspection by video scanning or other means in order to examine the internal surfaces and joints of all flue liners incorporated within the chimney. No removal or destruction of permanently attached portions of the chimney or building structure or finish shall be required by a Level 2 inspection.

Level 3 – When a Level 1 or Level 2 inspection suggests a hidden hazard and the evaluation cannot be performed without special tools to access concealed areas of the chimney or flue, a Level 3 inspection is recommended. A Level 3 inspection addresses the proper construction and the condition of concealed portions of the chimney structure and the flue. Removal or destruction, as necessary, of permanently attached portions of the chimney or building structure, will be required for the completion of a Level 3 inspection. 

Watch this helpful video from CSIA that explains the three types of inspections: 

Let Southern Chimneys help you with whichever inspection you need.

Get your chimney inspection done with Southern Chimneys! We’ll schedule a time to come look things over and perform an inspection. You can also schedule a cleaning or repair if you wind up needing it. But you should hurry and call now! Time is running out to get things done before the winter months! 

This post first appeared on https://southernchimneys.com

As a homeowner, one of the things you have to deal with is a chimney leak. According to chimney inspection professionals, chimneys leak due to different reasons. Here are some of the reasons and how to fix them:

Missing chimney cap

The chimney cap keeps rain, animals, and birds out of the chimney. When the cap is missing, you can’t keep wind-driven rain out of the flue. Animals and birds also enter the fireplace at will.

To keep out rain, you need to install a chimney cap. Begin with measuring the flue tile at the top of the chimney then purchase and install the right size of chimney cap. While there are many types of caps you can go with, stainless steel caps are the best.

In addition to being durable, they also have a large bonnet that plays a vital role in keeping out the rain. If you have the skills, you can install the cap by yourself but if you have never done it before, ask a professional to help you out.

Cracked or broken chimney crown

The chimney crown is the cement part on top of the chimney. Just like the chimney cap, the crown keeps out the rain.

If you have had your chimney for years, you are bound to have a cracked or broken crown. Cracks in the chimney come about due to shifting of the structure. The crown can also shrink due to old age.

Of course, when the crown cracks, water gets into the chimney. For you to fix the problem, repair the chimney crown with rebar and quality cement mix.

Some people will tell you to fix the crown using elastomeric or silicone-based products. Don’t fall for this as they don’t provide a long-lasting solution.

Damaged brick and mortar

If you have small cracks and gaps in the mortar and bricks, water will get into the chimney. If you don’t address the issue early enough, the waterlogged bricks will crumble when the water inside freezes.

You can offer short term relief or fix the problem permanently. The short term solution is to use clear painters caulking. Since damaged brickwork crumbles after a short term, expect the caulking to fall off after a few months.

The permanent solution for the problem is to remove the cracked or spalling bricks and replace them with new ones. This project is complicated, so don’t try undertaking it if you have haven’t done it before. Let an expert chimney contractor handle it.

Damaged flashing

After being exposed for years to a wide range of weather elements, it’s normal for the flashing to rust, get loose, and eventually fail to prevent water from getting into the chimney. To restore the flashing, scrape away the defective caulking and reapply a flashing type sealant.

While this will fix the problem, the solution is short-lived.

For a permanent relief, remove the damaged flushing and replace it.

Sometimes your chimney will leak if you had a flashing that was installed improperly or in the wrong sequence with roofing. The sealant system will slow down the leaking but for a more durable solution, replace all the flashing. You also should replace tar paper and surrounding shingles.

Missing chimney cricket

A telltale sign your chimney is missing a chimney cricket is water entering the attic on the uphill side of the fireplace. When water pools in the uphill side, the flashing rusts.

For your chimney to last for a long time, install a chimney cricket. Chimney cricket installation is a significant chimney project and should only be done by an experienced chimney company. The company shouldn’t simply install the cricket. It also should perform water leak tests to confirm everything is functioning optimally.

Damaged mortar joints

Mortar joints deteriorate, allowing water into the chimney. In some fireplaces, large sections of mortar might be missing allowing water to enter the chimney easily. If you don’t fix the problem early enough, water weakens the chimney, and the entire unit crumbles.

For you to fix the problem, repair the damaged joints with new mortar. This isn’t a significant project so you can fix the joints by yourself without requiring the services of chimney contractors Bowie.

This post first appeared on https://www.firstclasschimneyservices.com