Discover Why You Should Schedule a Chimney Inspection
A fireplace has several different parts contributing to its proper functionality. Chimneys are an integral component of a fireplace, allowing combustion by-products like smoke, gasses, water vapor, tar fog, and unburned wood particles to vent to the exteriors instead of entering the home environment.
Experts strongly recommend homeowners with a fireplace or other wood-burning appliances invest in professional chimney inspections. Failure to clean and maintain the chimneys annually can lead to various problems and safety concerns.
Let's discuss why homeowners should never neglect their chimneys and schedule regular professional inspections:
Prevent fires
A dirty or damaged chimney is one of the leading causes of house fires. According to The Chimney Safety Institute of America, over 25,000 chimney fires annually in the USA, leading to millions in property damage, severe injuries, and even deaths. Professional chimney inspections prevent the possibility of dangerous fires. A chimney inspector can remove fire triggers like animal nests and creosote, a flammable by-product from burning wood that clings to the chimney lining. The higher the creosote build-up in the chimney, the greater is the likelihood of a chimney fire.
Uncover structural issues
A certified chimney sweep has specialized tools and equipment to detect structural and other problems that are often hard to spot by the untrained eyes of the homeowners. During an annual chimney inspection, the technician can examine the overall unit to diagnose issues, like cracks in the flue line or masonry, missing flue cap, and other problems that can lead to fire, water leaks, and premature deterioration. Homeowners can prevent majority chimney issues with regular inspections and maintain the unit's structural integrity.
Avoid expensive repairs
Detecting and fixing the chimney issues on time can save homeowners from time-consuming and expensive repairs down the line. Annual inspections nip the problems in the bud to prevent extensive damage to the chimney structure and keep it safe to use at all times. A chimney sweep checks the chimney's condition to recommend required repairs, both major and minor.
Eliminate the risk of carbon monoxide leaks
A blocked venting system or malfunctioning chimney components can cause poisonous and odorless carbon monoxide gas to leak into the home. Higher levels of carbon monoxide in a house can even prove fatal. Even in smaller quantities, it can cause several symptoms. During a chimney inspection, a professional inspect the venting system, flue, and other parts for safe and efficient functioning. It significantly prevents the possibility of harmful gasses entering the living environment.
Ensure better efficiency
High creosote build-up impacts the chimney's efficiency. Scheduling regular inspections keep a chimney clean and obstruction-free. A professional can clean your chimney if there is a significant presence of creosote. A clean chimney allows the fireplace to burn less wood and heat your home more efficiently.
Keep your chimney clean!
Neglecting chimneys can pose grave risks to the home and family safety. Even chimneys not used often need yearly inspections to check their soundness and remove potential obstructions caused by debris and small animals to ensure they are safe to use. Is your chimney due for inspection? Hire a licensed and certified technician today for a reliable chimney inspection.
Sweeps N Ladders is a North Texas chimney and roofing repair service providing chimney & fireplace restorations, brick and mortar restoration, chimney caps, chase covers, and more. We provide fireplace inspection and repair, fireplace remodeling, chimney inspection and sweeping, and dryer vent cleaning. We are locally owned and operated family business and are licensed, bonded, and insured. Call us today at 469-812-5662.