Chimney Cleaning and Inspection
In need of a chimney cleaning or inspection?
Chimney cleaning and inspection are an important part of having a fireplace. If cleaning is not done regularly; dangerous conditions may occur, putting you and your family at risk.
We are often asked how a chimney is cleaned. We have a variety of brushes and other tools that we use. We try to clean all fireplaces from the roof, which not only provides the best access to thoroughly clean the entire chimney, but also gives us a proper view of your chimney so we can determine if there are any issues that may need attention or repair.
These are the most common types of chimney cleanings:
Basic Chimney Cleaning
Brushes are sent down from the top of the chimney to sweep out the creosote. A Hepa filtered fireplace vacuum is used to remove all the debris from below.
Dryer Vent Cleaning
Are your clothes taking longer than normal to dry? This may be because your dryer vent is clogged. More importantly, a clogged dryer vent can start a fire because lint is extremely flammable. Check out this Website for more information about clogged dryer vents.
Power Chimney Cleaning
Rotary powered whips and chains are used to break apart soot build-up. This cleaning is used in conjunction with our basic cleaning Procedure.
Chemical Chimney Cleaning
This type of chimney cleaning is rarely used. We spray chemicals in the chimney and ask the homeowner to have a few fires to activate the chemicals to break down the soot. We then return to remove the soot. Several chemical applications may be required, depending on the level of soot buildup. We rarely perform this type of cleaning as we avoid using chemicals whenever possible.
Chimney Inspection
Level I – Basic Inspection
This is a visual inspection of readily accessible areas of the chimney structure and flue. We inspect obstruction or combustible deposits in the flue, basic appliance installation and connection. We also look at the exterior of the chimney to note any structural issues with the brick or chimney cap.
Level II – Video inspection
This level is required for property sale and is the most thorough flue inspection available. This inspection is done in conjunction with with the Level I, along with looking for proper clearances from combustibles in an accessible location. Size and suitability of flues for connected appliances are inspected. A video camera is sent through the chimney to locate dangerous cracks, missing flue joints, water damage or any other structural concerns.
Level III
This inspection requires access to attic spaces and may require the removal of walls to inspect the integrity of the chimney. This would be done after an event such as a chimney fire, if necessary.
Annual inspections are required by the NFPA, typically done during a routine chimney cleaning or upon direct replacement of a connected appliance with similar type, input rating, and efficiency.
Are you selling or buying a home?
Per NFPA 211- a Level II (Camera) chimney inspection is required upon the sale or transfer of property.