The difference between a chimney inspection and chimney cleaning is a mystery for many homeowners. A chimney inspection is an evaluation of the exterior and interior portions of the chimney, while a chimney cleanup is where professionals sweep out all the soot, debris, and animal nesting from the inside of your fireplace. The following is everything that you need to know about chimney inspections and cleanings.
How Often Should Your Chimney Be Inspected
The National Fire Protection Association suggests that chimneys and fireplaces should be inspected at least once a year to ensure they have no leaks, cracks, or deposits and are not a hazard to your house and loved ones. If you think your chimney or fireplace is used more than usual, it should be monitored even more closely as extensive usage creates more potential for creosote and soot buildup. Chimney cleanups are very crucial as they reveal the need for enhanced inspections.
What to Expect During an Inspection
Chimney inspections are conducted by certified and qualified professionals. These professionals primarily cover the working area with drop cloths to prevent any mishap. During the inspections, chimney experts document every minor and major issue they observe and present you with a detailed report and an estimate for the repairs.
Different Levels of Chimney Inspections
Level One Inspection: This inspection verifies the structural soundness and readiness for chimney usage. It’s advisable to always include a level one inspection along with every chimney cleaning you have.
Level Two Inspection: This inspection usually happens after a real estate inspection. The majority of home inspectors aren’t skilled or equipped to inspect a fireplace or a chimney. Due to this, buyers of a new property hire licensed chimney companies to get the fireplace and chimney inspected. These inspections are also conducted when homeowners change the type of fuel for their heating appliances or install new heating altogether. Along with a detailed report, a video scan of the flue system is also provided at the end of these inspections.
Level Three Inspections: This is the most extensive type of chimney inspection. The need for these inspections occurs when the inspection of the concealed areas of your chimney system is required. During level three inspection, professionals inspect hazardous conditions by going behind the walls that are surrounding your chimney and flue.
What to Expect During Chimney Cleaning
Following is the list of all the things that you may expect during a chimney cleanup.
- Cleaning out creosote and soot is certainly a messy job. To prevent your home from being affected by this, chimney experts are likely to cover the work area with a drop cloth.
- Chimney experts remove deposits and debris from the flute system with the help of professional tools.
- All the mess from the chimney is cleaned up by the crew and you are left with a tidy fireplace.
Annual chimney cleanups and level one inspections are highly advisable. If you live in Connecticut and are looking for a reliable chimney cleaning company, then our team of experts can help you. At CT Chimney Repair, We offer chimney restoration, chimney repair and restoration, fireplace installation and remodeling, and much more.
Learn more about our services here.
