Why Do I Need A Chimney Inspection?
Here at Michael’s Chimney Service & Restoration, we work hard to keep our customers’ fireplaces and stoves in excellent working order, year after year. The safety and enjoyment of our customers is always our top priority, which is why our Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)-certified chimney technicians perform chimney inspections as recommended by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
There are 3 levels of inspections. Level I inspections are performed if your fireplace has been used regularly and nothing has really changed. These are conducted without the application of specific tools. Level II inspections, on the other hand, may involve simple tools that allow us to better see certain parts of your chimney.
Level II type of inspection is required when the following happens:
- Adjustments or changes have been made to your chimney flue or hearth appliance
- Your house is in the process of being bought or sold
- Your chimney has been subjected to any sort of external/internal damage
- You have experienced a chimney fire or any serious weather problems/natural disasters
What’s The Difference Between A Level I & Level II Inspection?
While Level I inspections are basic examinations of your chimney’s flue and internal structure, Level II inspections are considerably more in-depth, exhaustive reviews of your chimney using video scanning technology and tools to get a better look. Inserting a state-of-the-art Chim-Scan video camera down your chimney flue, the inspector can access a ninety-degree view of details in hard-to-see areas, such as creosote buildup or water damage within the flue, that might cause a safety and efficiency disturbance for your chimney.
Although most chimney sweeps solely use video scanning equipment during a Level II inspection, those of us here at Michael’s Chimney Service perform video scans of every flue we inspect, whether we’re performing a Level I, Level II, or Level III inspection.
What If A Level II Inspection Can’t Pinpoint & Resolve An Issue?
In rare situations, a Level II inspection can’t give us a clear look at the chimney problem or safety issue. In these worst case scenarios, a Level III inspection will be required, which may involve the extraction of certain structural elements in order to officially resolve an issue However, these types of inspections are rare, and in each level of inspection, all standard procedures have been safeguarded and approved by the NFPA. All of our technicians are trained in NFPA chimney inspections and will not perform anything without first discussing it with you.
Inspections & How They Can Help You
When it comes to enjoying a fire in your home, the more you know about the condition of your chimney system, the better. Hidden dangers within the chimney can lead to extensive home damage, property loss, carbon monoxide poisoning, chimney fires, and even loss of life.
The digital images an inspection can provide are important, especially if you’re buying a home. Our trained professionals can see what home inspectors might miss. We take extra precaution to compose detailed written reports of the conditions within your chimney and will let you know whether any repair needs may fall under your responsibility. Not only will our inspections help ease your time as a new homeowner and protect you from buying a home without knowing the condition of the chimney system, but these inspections can also help protect you against the dangers of a neglected, dirty, or damaged chimney once you’ve moved in.
Make Inspections A Part Of Your Yearly Maintenance Plan!
The CSIA and NFPA are committed to reducing chimney fires and safety hazards, which is why they recommend that a chimney inspection be performed every single year, regardless of how much or how little you use your chimney system. Enjoy your fireplace or stove without worrying about hidden problems or buildup – schedule your inspection today! Call or click here!
Don’t forget about your furnace flue! We provide thorough inspections and sweepings and can even reline your furnace flue with a Class A Chimney system!
One chimney service you may not know much about is chimney relining. For your family’s safety, call us for more information roday.