Many New Englanders depend on their wood-burning fireplaces and stoves for affordable home heating during the long winter months. However, the chimney, that grand structure peeking above the roof silently expelling smoke and fumes, is often overlooked. A healthy chimney is essential for efficient heating and, more importantly, reducing fire risk and exposure to toxic carbon monoxide exhaust. Scheduling an annual chimney inspection is the best way to ensure structural stability, improve heating efficiency, and mitigate hazards.
Annual Chimney Inspections Is Home Maintenance
An annual chimney inspection is an integral part of home maintenance. The certified technicians at Horizon Chimney Services are trained professionals who adhere to strict industry standards adopted by National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Rule 211. The rule states, “All chimneys, vents, and attached heating appliances shall be inspected yearly.”
This inspection can uncover a range of potential problems, including:
- Blockages: Bird nests, creosote buildup, debris, and fallen leaves can obstruct the chimney flue, especially in narrow passages like the smoke chamber. This restricts airflow and increases the risk of smoke backing up into your living space.
- Damper Malfunctions: A malfunctioning damper can affect the efficiency of your fireplace or stove, impacting heating performance and wasting fuel. It can also allow rain and snow to leak into your fireplace, causing water damage to the liner and masonry.
- Structural Damage: Cracks in the chimney masonry, flue liners, and mortar joints can compromise the chimney’s structural integrity, potentially leading to collapse or allowing dangerous gases to leak into your home or other common chimney issues to occur.
- Water Leaks: Cracks in the masonry, liner, crown, and other components can lead to water leaks that increase the risk of fire, structural problems, and exposure to carbon monoxide gas, a silent and deadly threat. Annual inspections can help identify and minimize these risks.
What To Expect During a Chimney Inspection
Our professional chimney sweep will wear protective clothing for a thorough inspection, often using specialized tools and equipment. This review typically includes:
- Visual Inspection: Examining the exterior and interior of the chimney for signs of damage or deterioration.
- Flue Inspection: Using a video camera system to inspect the flue liner for cracking.
- Creosote Evaluation: Assessing the level of creosote buildup to determine the need for cleaning.
- Damper Check: Examining the damper for proper function.
- Written Report: The technician will provide a written report of the findings, noting any recommendations and identifying necessary repairs or replacements. The report will include applicable images.
Chimney Cleaning
During the inspection, the chimney sweep will determine whether cleaning is necessary. If so, we can perform the service during the same visit. Our cleaning process involves using specialized tools and equipment to remove creosote buildup and other debris from the chimney. However, in cases where the chimney hasn’t been swept in quite some time, we may need to clean it before we can inspect it. Heavy creosote buildup can obscure the view of the flue liner and other critical components, preventing a thorough assessment of the chimney’s condition.
The Hidden Danger of Creosote
Creosote is one of many natural byproducts produced during the combustion of wood. Some of this sticky substance adheres to the interior masonry walls and components as the smoke and exhaust vents up the flue to exit your home. As the creosote lingers inside the chimney, it becomes thick, tarry, crusty, and extremely flammable. We call this stage 3 or glazed creosote, which requires professional removal. A spark or intense heat in the chimney (due to an obstruction) can ignite the creosote into an intense fire that can quickly engulf your home in flames.
Call Horizon for Professional Chimney Inspections
Is it time for your annual chimney inspection? As a family-owned and locally operated hearth expert with over 33 years of excellence, Horizon Chimney Services offers a convenient and reliable chimney service. We bring expertise and a CSIA-certified technician to every job, serving Hopkinton MA, Shrewsbury MA, Westborough MA, Cumberland RI, and the surrounding areas. Contact us to schedule your chimney Inspection today!