Why Are Chimney Inspections Important?

The sight and smell of a crackling fire in a wood stove or fireplace are a quintessential New England experience, especially in Rehoboth, MA, and surrounding areas. But beyond the cozy ambiance, it’s crucial to remember that your chimney plays a vital role in home safety. Neglecting chimney inspections can lead to serious consequences, including fire hazards and health risks. So, here’s why chimney inspections are important.

Uncover Health & Safety Risks

A chimney is more than a vessel for ventilating smoke from your home. It is a safety barrier protecting your home and family from several hidden dangers, such as:

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Unfortunately, many individuals in the Eastern MA and RI area succumb to the deadly effects of carbon monoxide poisoning every winter. A chimney inspection can uncover ventilation, appliance, and structural issues that can cause this silent killer to invade your living space.

Creosote Buildup

Burning wood produces creosote, a highly flammable by-product of combustion that accumulates in the flue. Over time, this buildup hardens into a dark, crusty, tarry substance that can ignite from a flying spark or lightning strike, and it can rapidly spread throughout your home, especially when the flue liner is compromised.

Flue Obstructions

Animal nests, leaves and twigs, and other debris can obstruct the flue, preventing the expulsion of smoke and fumes from your residence. This obstruction can lead to a dangerous backdraft that sends plumes of smoke, hot debris, and exhaust into your living space.

Masonry Damage

Deteriorating mortar, cracks, or loose bricks can compromise the chimney’s integrity, allowing smoke and carbon monoxide fumes to leak into your home. In severe cases, it can cause a partial or complete structural collapse that can cause injuries and damage to your property.

The Importance of Annual Chimney Inspections

An annual chimney inspection is important for the safe, reliable, and efficient use of your fireplace, stove, and other attached appliances, vents, and connections. A routine inspection includes:

• Visual Inspection: Checking for cracks, loose bricks, and signs of deterioration on the interior and exterior masonry, chimney crown, flashing, and internal components.
• Flue Inspection: Use of a specialized video camera to get a close-up view of the flue’s interior for signs of cracking, creosote buildup, and other issues that may require relining.
• Structural Assessment: Identifying any structural issues that can compromise the chimney and cause fire or safety hazards.
• Cleaning Recommendation: Determines if cleaning is necessary to improve heating efficiency and reduce fire and health risks.
• Prevent Water Damage: Annual chimney inspections can detect minor leaks before they do more damage and require costlier repairs.

How Much Is A Chimney Inspection

While costs can vary depending on geographic location, most chimney inspections cost less than $300 when they are done annually. The cost may be higher if it has been two or more years since your last inspection. However, it’s still a small price to pay to help prevent a devastating and costly fire.

Trust Horizon for Certified Chimney Inspections

Have you had your annual chimney inspection yet? For over three decades, homeowners in Newton, Smithfield and towns in Eastern MA and RI have counted on the certified pros at Horizon for their chimney inspections. As a family-owned and operated business with over three decades of experience, we are committed to helping you get the most out of your fireplace and wood stove. Contact Horizon Chimney Services to schedule your chimney inspection today!