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The levels and process of a detailed chimney inspection

Chimney professionals know the importance of chimney inspections, and we sometimes even overstate the importance of it. While you might know the importance of annual chimney maintenance, but how exactly are chimney inspections performed and what are the differences between the three types of chimney inspections suggested by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA).

Level 1 chimney inspection

A Level 1 chimney inspection is the first and most necessary of all chimney inspections. This is an annual requirement for those homeowners who stay up-to-date on chimney maintenance. A level 1 inspections is for when there are no suspected damage. It’s also good for when there has not been changes for the fireplace or chimney system. A Level 1 chimney inspection is a visual inspection of the easily accessible portions of your chimney and hearth.

From the rooftop, your chimney sweep look down to check for any signs of damage. They also check for damage or missing pieces on the exterior of the chimney. The sweep look at the firebox and damper. They peer up the chimney to check for visible damages as well.

Level 2 chimney inspection

A Level 2 chimney inspection is a more thorough examination of your fireplace and chimney. A level 2 chimney inspection is for when the sweep notices signs of damages during a Level 1 chimney inspection. This level is also for when a property changes hands, there are any changes in your fireplace or chimney, or when there are suspected damages.

To perform a Level 2 chimney inspection, your chimney sweep performs everything from a Level 1 inspection. In addition, they also examine the all access and available portions of your chimney such as the attics, crawl spaces and access panels. Your sweep also insert a specialized camera up your flue to verify no signs of damage or obstruction.

Level 3 chimney inspection

A Level 3 chimney inspection is an invasive chimney inspection that involves opening your chimney to expose any hidden and hard to see damages. A Level 3 chimney inspection is for when damage is found within the chimney. It is also for when a level 2 reveals signs of a greater problem deep within the chimney. During a Level 3 inspections, portions of the chimney or home might be demolished or dismantled to expose problem areas.

If your chimney need a chimney inspection — whether it’s a Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3 chimney inspection — call Your Chimney Sweep to schedule an appointment! We can perform these inspections and make recommendations for repairs. With an inspection from Your Chimney Sweep, you can be confident of the true state of your chimney and enjoy your fireplace peacefully!

The Importance of Chimney Flashing

Chimney flashing usually goes unnoticed until it fails. Flashing surrounds the base of your chimney to keep water from leaking in where your chimney structure meets your roof. When chimney flashing fails, water can seep in around the chimney, resulting in ugly ceiling spots, wavy wallboard, peeling wallpaper, and the rotting of your home’s joists. So how do you know if your chimney flashing will keep your home safe from water damage?

Proper chimney flashing installation

Many roofers, builders, and masons can rush the installation of chimney flashing, failing to follow the steps of proper installation and potentially leaving your home susceptible to water damage. When installed properly, chimney flashing features two layers. First, a layer of L-shaped metal is woven into your chimney’s shingles, with one side lying flat against your roof and the other side flat against your chimney. To completely seal the flashing, another layer of metal flashing is embedded into your chimney’s masonry with mortar, and then the metal is folded down over the bottom layer of flashing to keep water out.

Types of chimney flashing

There are several materials used for chimney flashing, and the type of metal used will affect the longevity of your flashing. In the north, lead is commonly used as flashing because it molds easily around corners. On higher-end jobs, homeowners will opt for stainless steel or copper, which won’t rust, corrode or develop holes like other flashing materials can. Copper has the added benefit of being able to be soldered at the corners, while other metals would form seams that need to be caulked to keep water out. Caulking is often the first thing to fail in the flashing, letting water into a home.

How to tell if your chimney flashing is secure

Unfortunately, the first sign that there’s a problem with chimney flashing is often a water leak. If you don’t want to be surprised by an ugly spot on your ceiling or discolored or warping wallboard, it’s worth having your chimney flashing inspected. You can ask your chimney sweep about the state of your chimney flashing during your annual inspection. Knowing that your chimney flashing is improperly installed or starting to corrode can help you address the flashing before it causes a problem in your home.

What to do about bad flashing

If your chimney flashing is already failing, or if it’s improperly installed or starting to break down, don’t wait until you have major water damage to have it fixed! Chimney experts are generally the best option for repairing faulty flashing, as roofers may often band-aid the issue and fail to resolve the problem. If you need to have your chimney flashing inspected or repaired, call Your Chimney Sweep to schedule an appointment today!