When it comes to chimneys, many of our clients are surprised to learn that there are different types. Most people are familiar with your classic masonry fireplace, which is constructed of masonry bricks. Masonry chimneys can be used with different heating appliances like wood or gas fireplaces and wood, gas, or pellet stoves.
Class A metal chimneys are another type that are typically used with wood or pellet stoves when an existing masonry chimney isn’t available. Class A chimneys are great because they allow homeowners to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a cozy fire – without having to change the structure of their home.
When it comes to masonry chimneys, they have several components. Your typical parts are going to be the firebox, smoke chamber, smoke shelf or thimble, damper, flue liner, crown, and cap. Each of these parts plays a role in helping your chimney system get smoke and the other nasty stuff out of your home that results when you have a fire.
They function like a team. We all know a team is only as good as its weakest link. That’s where chimney inspections come in.
What Happens During a Chimney Inspection?
We love to educate our customers in hopes that maybe all of our chimney knowledge will somehow pay off during a trivia night… you never know, right? So here is some more helpful chimney knowledge to add to your belt.
There are three levels of chimney inspections.
Which level you need depends on your specific chimney and whether it has sustained any damage or undergone modifications. The purpose of each level is to ensure the safety and efficiency of the chimney to prevent potential dangers, all so you and your family can enjoy a warmer and safer home.
Level 1 Chimney Inspection
A level 1 inspection will basically be a simple visual analysis of the parts of your chimney system. This includes anything that our technicians can easily see – both inside and outside of your home. These are a good fit if you haven’t made any changes to the type of fuel you’re using or to how often you use your chimney.
Level 2 Chimney Inspection
Next up, level 2 inspections. These include everything a level 1 does, but we also use our advanced video equipment to really see the ins and outs of your chimney. These are done if you change the construction or fuel type of your system, if you’ve experienced damage, or if you’ve experienced a natural disaster or catastrophic event (like a chimney).
This is also definitely the inspection you want when you purchase a home with a chimney. We know you had to have a home inspection when you bought the house…but guess what? Those real estate inspections are not as thorough when it comes to proper chimney inspections. All that guy will do is test your system to see if it lights (if it’s gas) and maybe open the damper. Real estate inspectors aren’t equipped to truly see if your chimney has damage or other potential hazards brewing inside.
Level 3 Chimney Inspection
Most customers won’t ever need a level 3 inspection. This is the top dog level and is only done when severe damage or hazards are suspected inside areas we can’t easily access. This level typically involves removing pieces of your chimney and/or home to be able to really access concealed areas and see what’s going on.
Why Are Chimney Inspections So Important?
When it comes to your family, you’d do anything to keep them warm and safe, right? Well, getting your chimney inspected each year is your best bet for making sure they are protected each time you use your fireplace, stove, or any other home heating appliances.
As we said before, your chimney serves one essential function – to keep all the nasty stuff out of your living space while you enjoy your fireplace’s warmth and comfort inside of your home.
Having your chimney inspected each year – yes, each year – is the best way to take a proactive approach to keeping your chimney running safely and efficiently.
Schedule An Appointment Now
Regardless of your chimney needs, Highpoint Chimney Services can handle anything your chimney throws at us – from firebox repairs to chimney cap installs to full chimney relines.
Give our friendly staff a call today at 908-864-4114 or schedule an appointment online to learn more about how we can help with your chimney needs.
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