The Importance of a Chimney Inspection

With winter right around the corner, homeowners should be thinking about chimney inspections at their Hackensack homes. These inspections are incredibly important and are one of the best ways to ensure your chimney and fireplace are safe to use and enjoy during the cold winter months.

There are three basic types of chimney inspections and the type you need mostly depends on your chimney, if it has sustained any major damage recently and if the fuel source has changed recently.

A level one is pretty basic. This type of chimney inspection includes a visual inspection of the chimney and any crawl spaces around it. The chimney sweep will look for any needed repairs and he or she will check to see how much creosote has built up in it. It is generally followed by a thorough cleaning.

A level two chimney inspection is done when there are any big changes made to the chimney system. Some of these types of changes include if the flue has been changed or if the type of fuel used (for example, going from wood to gas) has been changed. A level two chimney inspection is also required when you are selling your home to ensure the buyer is getting a chimney and fireplace that are in good condition and safe to use.

A level three chimney inspection is usually done after there has been significant damage done to the chimney. For example: a house fire or very severe weather has come through.

So why should you have a chimney inspection done, especially if you haven't had anything significant change about your chimney? Well, for one thing, dangerous levels of creosote can build up inside of your chimney. Creosote is a byproduct of the burning process and it is incredibly flammable. Plus, it can lead to a dangerous build-up of carbon monoxide, which can cause you and your family to get sick. In extreme cases, it can even result in fatalities.

For another thing, a chimney inspection gives you invaluable peace of mind that you have done everything in your power to keep your family and your house safe from the threat of a chimney fire. Just be sure you go to a licensed, insured and certified chimney inspection company, like Guardian Chimney.

Are you interested in learning more about getting a chimney inspection at your Hackensack home? Call Guardian Chimney at 888-388-1388 or Contact Us.