The Three Levels of Chimney Inspections

Chimney inspections can be a fairly confusing topic. Most people think that there is only one type, but there are actually three! We here at Guardian Chimney provide chimney inspections for Bergen County homes, so we thought we would briefly outline each type of inspection and what it looks for.

Level One Chimney Inspections

These are the most common type of chimney inspections. A technician will come to your home and inspect the readily accessible parts of your chimney, including the interior and exterior, crawl spaces, attics and more. This is a great way to figure out if your chimney needs any basic repairs. The technician will use a flash light and, if needed, a screwdriver or pliers to examine any openings. There are no other special tools required for this kind of inspection.

Level Two Chimney Inspections

A homeowner needs this type of chimney inspection after a big event, like a severe thunderstorm, or if the homeowner is trying to sell the home. These chimney inspections are also used when changing the way the fireplace is being used, like if you are having it converted from a wood fireplace to a gas fireplace. Level two chimney inspections use a video camera. The camera is lowered into the chimney and the technician will look at the interior of the chimney to look for damage or needed repairs. These chimney inspections are more detailed than Level One inspections.

Level Three Chimney Inspections

This is the most intense type of chimney inspection because it involves removing parts of the chimney when needed. Only used after serious damage has been sustained, level three chimney inspections are great for assessing damage after a catastrophic event, like a structure fire.

For more information on chimney inspections in Bergen County, call Guardian Chimney at 1-888-688-1388 or Contact Us.

How to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

A colorless, odorless and tasteless gas, carbon monoxide is responsible for hundreds of deaths each year. It is possible, however, to protect yourself and your family from this harmful gas. One of the best things you can do to ensure your safety and your family’s safety is to get an annual chimney inspection. Bergen County homes will greatly benefit from this service.

One of the most obvious ways to protect yourself and your family is to get a carbon monoxide detector. This alarm will go off with an audible warning if it detects carbon monoxide. They are designed to sound the alarm before an average and healthy adult would start to feel symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Bear in mind that your fuel-burning appliances can emit carbon monoxide. Some examples of these appliances are charcoal grills, wood-burning furnaces, gas-fired appliances, fireplaces and motor vehicles. Charcoal grills and your oven range should never be used as a heat source for your home. You should also never use an emergency generator indoors. They should always be used outdoors only in a dry area that is away from your home’s windows, vents and doors.

Your fuel-burning appliances should also be checked at least once a year by a professional. Your chimney should undergo a regular chimney inspection (at least once a year), and it should have a level 2 chimney inspection if it has undergone any damage because of severe weather or another event like that. A chimney inspection should also be done if you are buying or selling a home. A professional like the ones at Guardian Chimney should be the one to take a look at your chimney and perform the chimney inspection.

For more information on getting a chimney inspection in Bergen County, call Guardian Chimney at 1-888-688-1388 or contact us to Schedule an Appointment.