Chimney Maintenance
Chimney Inspection and Cleaning
The chimney is a vital part of a home’s heating system. Typically made of brick or metal it is a pipe or structure that allows hot gasses to be exhausted outside the home.
Unfortunately, although it is a vital part of your home, it typically does not always get the attention it deserves.
Chimneys that are not properly maintained can result in:
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Chimney fires
- Premature failure of the fireplace and chimney or collapse of the structure
Regular Inspections Are Recommended
The National Fire Protection Association says, "Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances. Cleaning, maintenance, and repairs shall be done if necessary."
The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends that open masonry fireplaces should be cleaned at 1/4" of sooty buildup, and sooner if there is any glaze present in the system. Factory-built fireplaces should be cleaned when any appreciable buildup occurs.
These recommendations take into account that even if you don’t use your chimney often, it should still be inspected regularly because there may be other reasons your chimney is unsafe to use such as animal nests in the flue or other types of deterioration.
What is inspected?
Structure soundness is reviewed - Is your chimney pulling away from the rest of the house? Are there cracks or loose bricks? Is the flashing loose and potentially causing leaks into your home? If you have a metal pipe, is it rusty or dislodged?
Cleanliness of the flue - Wood never completely combusts when it burns. What is left, sticks to the inside of the chimney. This is called “creosote”, and can be very difficult to clean. But if it’s allowed to build up, a chimney fire could happen. The flue should be cleaned regularly according to recommended standards.
How to Hire a Chimney Sweep
The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) a non-profit, educational institution focused on the prevention of chimney and venting hazards, recommends that consumers take extra steps when considering what chimney sweep to hire for an annual inspection or related service on their chimney or vent.
Some questions to ask include:
- How long has the chimney sweeping company been in business?
- Does the company offer current references?
- Does the company have unresolved complaints filed within the city or state consumer protection agency or Better Business Bureau?
- Does the company or individual carry a valid business liability insurance policy to protect your home and furnishings against accidents?
- Does the company ensure that a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep will be on the job site? (Chimney sweeps that are certified by CSIA are required to prove competency by passing an examination on fire prevention codes and standard chimney service practices)
So, if you’ve neglected your chimney or thought you didn’t need an inspection because you don’t use it often, have a gas fireplace or metal flue, think again and schedule an inspection to ensure the safety of your family.
