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The Three Levels of Chimney Inspection

Not all chimney inspections are created equal. In fact, there are three levels of chimney inspections recommended by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). The type of chimney inspection you need in your home will depend on your individual situation. Here’s what you need to know about the three levels of chimney inspections.

Level 1 Chimney Inspection

A Level 1 chimney inspection is, essentially, your basic chimney inspection. This is the type of chimney inspection you should have performed each year, as long as your chimney and fireplace have undergone no significant changes or suffered any noticeable damage. During a Level 1 chimney inspection, your chimney sweep will inspect all accessible interior portions of your chimney, as well as all exterior components of your chimney. Your sweep also ensures your fireplace or heating stove is properly installed and functioning. A Level 1 chimney inspection ensures that your fireplace and chimney are ready for use.

Level 2 Chimney Inspection

A Level 2 chimney inspection is more thorough than a Level 1 inspection. It is recommended when changing your fireplace system or when a property changes hands. Also, it is necessary when your fireplace system malfunctions. In addition, it is necessary after an event that could have compromised the chimney structure, such as a house fire, an earthquake or heavy storm. A Level 2 chimney inspection includes all components of a Level 1 chimney inspection, but the inspector also enters attics or crawl spaces to further access the chimney. Finally, a specialized camera provides a thorough internal inspection of the chimney.

Level 3 Chimney Inspection

Level 3 chimney inspections fix more severe, hidden problems with the chimney structure. The chimney technician removes the portions of the chimney necessary to better view the chimney damage. That includes removing chimney crowns or chase covers, or even interior chimney walls.

Knowing the differences in chimney inspections will help you to make an informed decision about the type of chimney inspection you need. It will help you to better communicate with your chimney technician during your inspection. Remember, every chimney requires an inspection at least once a year, as well as when a property changes hands and when there’s an occurrence that could have resulted in chimney damage.

If your home is in need of a chimney inspection — from a Level 1 chimney inspection to a Level 3 chimney inspection — call Your Chimney Sweep to schedule an appointment! Our certified chimney sweeps will help ensure that your chimney and fireplace are safe for operation.

By Joe Sauter on February 20th, 2018 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , | Leave a Comment

Schedule a Fireplace Inspection for Valentine’s Day

Many homeowners leave their hearths untouched throughout the year, lighting it only for holidays and special occasions. Valentine’s Day is one of those days that inspires homeowners to ignite their otherwise unused fireplaces. Before you light your fireplace to strike a romantic mood this Valentine’s Day, schedule a chimney sweeping and inspection.

Inspections for Pellet Stoves and Wood-Burning Fireplaces

A chimney sweeping and inspection is crucial if you haven’t lit your fireplace since the last fire-burning season. For wood- and pellet-burning appliances, highly flammable creosote builds up in your chimney each time you burn a fire. When it builds up deep enough, a burning ember can cause the creosote to suddenly ignite. That’s why an annual chimney sweeping and inspection is recommended to prevent a dangerous and damaging chimney fire.

Your chimney inspection also will identify any damage that could lead to a chimney fire or any other problems with your chimney. During your inspection, your chimney sweep will locate any cracks or weaknesses in the chimney, blockages in the chimney or portions of the chimney that aren’t working. You’ll be able to rest assured that your chimney is safe to use this Valentine’s Day.

Inspections for Gas-Burning Appliances

Your gas-burning fireplace also needs a cleaning and inspection before you light it this Valentine’s Day! While gas-burning fireplaces burn cleaner than wood-burning fireplaces and don’t deposit creosote in the chimney, dirty gas fireplaces can cause plenty of problems, too. Dust or debris within the fireplace can cause the fireplace to malfunction or to fail to light entirely. A malfunctioning fireplace also can lead to a buildup of dangerous carbon monoxide in your home.

A cleaning and inspection of your gas-burning fireplace clears away any debris that could keep your fireplace from igniting this Valentine’s Day, and it ensures that all of the working components of your gas fireplace are functioning properly. Even though the fireplace for your gas chimney won’t accumulate creosote, it should still be cleared of corrosive soot and inspected for cracks or other damage that could render it unfit.

Don’t let a dirty or malfunctioning fireplace — or worse, a chimney fire — interfere with your romantic Valentine’s Day plans. Make  sure that your chimney is safe to use and ready to strike the romantic mood for your Valentine’s Day. Call to schedule your chimney sweeping and inspection with Your Chimney Sweep today!

By Joe Sauter on February 6th, 2018 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , | Leave a Comment