Inspections & Chimney Cleanings
Chimney Inspections are significantly important as they help prevent dangerous situations, like house fires, and carbon monoxide poisonings. By identifying potential issues like blockages to creosote build up, leaks, improper venting, water infiltration, animal nesting, root intrusion, masonry deterioration, and more. House fires are a lot more common due to the fire beginning inside the chimney then most think and know, Approximately 25,000 houses a year go on fire due to chimney fires according to the Chimney Safety Institute Of America. While not every house fire ends in total loss of house, they cause substantial property damage. Neglecting chimney maintenance will pose significant safety hazards, whether it is a venting chimney for a fireplace or a heating flue, or a woodstove, and regardless if the chimney is brick, fieldstone, cinderblock, or metal all chimney structures, interior and exterior must be maintained regularly and annually. Schedule your inspection with Elite Chimney today, and we will maintain your homes safety.
Chimney Inspections Level 1, 2, 3
The Most cost-efficient measure any homeowner can take is preventing chimney problems before a setback and all that takes is 30 to 40 minute appointment for an Elite Chimney Inspection. Our inspections will give the homeowner a piece of mind as to what is going on in a place they cannot see. There are three different Levels of chimney inspections, one more in depth then the other. All Inspections performed by Elite are written
Level 1 chimney inspection is also known as the " Visual Inspection" involves a basic visual examination of the interior, and exterior of the chimney and of all accessible parts while using a flashlight or tool of some sort.
While a Level 2 inspection includes a more in-depth assessment that includes a photo walk through and may require video scanning. They also check out all hidden areas including the attic, crawl space, or basement. While using a video camera to examine the flue liner for potential damage, and checking for proper clearances from combustible materials in accessible areas; typically done when buying or selling a house or if there are concerns about the chimney's condition.
Level 3 inspection is the most in depth and invasive type of chimney inspection, typically only performed when serious structural damage is suspected, which may require removing parts of the chimney or building structure to access concealed areas and fully assess the damage; it's considered necessary when a potential hazard is detected and cannot be inspected without partial dismantling of the chimney and surrounding structures, like a chimney fire, major structural issues, or when a Level 2 inspection reveals concerning signs of damage in inaccessible areas.
Root Intrusion
Root Intrusion is when roots and vines are growing inside a chimney, it is typically referred to " vegetative growth" inside the chimney. This usually happens when plants, like ivy or trees, grow close to the chimney and their roots find cracks or openings in the mortar, allowing them to enter the chimney structure. Roots growing inside the chimney can damage the mortar, obstruct airflow, and even cause structural issues if left unaddressed.
Chimney Cleaning
Chimney cleaning is essential for maintaining a safe and home. Over time, creosote and debris can build up in your chimney, increasing the risk of chimney fires and carbon monoxide exposure. Regular cleaning ensures proper airflow which helps your heating system operate more efficiently, saving you on energy costs. The dirtier the flue the harder the system has to run, The harder it runs the quicker your fuel will run through. Soot builds up in a chimney primarily from the combustion of wood, coal, or other fuels. As these materials burn, they release particles and gases that can cool and condense as they rise up the chimney, a sticky residue known as creosote. This buildup occurs more rapidly with incomplete combustion, often due to moist wood or low temperatures. Over time, this accumulation can restrict airflow and pose serious safety hazards if not addressed through regular cleaning. More importantly, accumulated soot is highly flammable and can ignite, causing dangerous chimney fires. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to prevent these hazards and ensure your chimney operates safely and efficiently.
Creosote build-up occurs when wood smoke, which contains unburned carbon, tar, and other chemicals, condenses on the cooler surfaces of your chimney or flue. Over time, this accumulation can create a thick, flammable layer that poses a significant fire hazard. Regular cleaning is essential to ensure safe chimney operation, but also enhances air quality by allowing for better ventilation.
Soot filled
Solutions
How Often Should My Chimney Be Cleaned?
ANNUALLY! The answer is annually, Depending what the chimney is burning is how that answer is determined
Heating Flue Chimney
Fireplace Chimney
A heating chimney flue needs to be cleaned regularly to prevent dangerous buildup of creosote and soot, which can ignite and cause a chimney fire, as well as to maintain proper ventilation and heating efficiency by allowing smoke and fumes to escape properly without blockages; essentially, a clean flue ensures safe and effective operation of your heating system.
Oil Flue Chimney
Regular inspection and cleaning of oil flue chimneys should be done every 12 months, essentially for maintaining safety and efficiency in heating systems. Over time, soot and creosote can build up and begin to adhere to the inside of the chimney flue, leading to potential fire hazards and reduced airflow. It is recommended to inspect and clean these chimneys at least once a year, or more frequently if the system is used heavily. By ensuring your oil flue chimney remains clear and well-maintained, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure optimal performance.
Wood fireplaces should be cleaned regularly to ensure safe and efficient operation. Over time, soot and creosote build-up can occur, increasing the risk of chimney fires and reducing airflow. Burning wood produces gases such as carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, and particulate matter, which can be harmful if not properly vented. Regular maintenance not only enhances safety but also improves the fireplace's performance and longevity. Neglecting regular fireplace cleaning can also result in dark stains around the hearth and mantel or cause fine ash and dust to spread throughout your home's air.
Wood stove Chimney
Regular cleaning of a woodstove is essential to ensure optimal performance and safety, as the combustion of wood releases gases such as carbon monoxide and particulate matter. These can accumulate and pose health risks if not vented properly. A woodstove typically vents through a chimney or flue, allowing harmful byproducts to escape outside. If the unit is brick, it may offer better insulation and heat retention, but it still requires maintenance to prevent creosote buildup that can lead to chimney fires.
Gas Flue Chimney
A gas heating chimney flue needs to be cleaned every 16 months, even though gas doesn't produce as much visible soot as oil and wood, it still needs to be maintained and inspected annually. Gas is acidic so it produces moisture and carbon monoxide build up, with the bricks being porous it will absorb all the moisture the gas conjures up plus any rain water during the colder months that water build up begins to freeze and expands which will then cause the deterioration of the bricks. They begin to crack and crumble, and the mortar in the joints will then do the same, causing the draft to then become off due to all the openings throughout the chimney structure. It is essential to make sure that this does not happen by well maintaining your chimney.
