Home maintenance tasks can seem like a never-ending flurry of demands – and fireplaces with their hidden flues often find themselves at the bottom of the priority list, especially for homeowners who rarely use them. Having a fireplace inspected can seem unnecessary, especially if it hasn’t been lit for months or years.
…but even fireplaces that infrequently feel the heat of flames can present issues if left unmaintained. Routine chimney inspections are important, regardless of how often you use your fireplace.
What Are the Risks of Skipping Your Chimney Inspection?
Fireplaces aren’t just decorative features – they’re complex systems that require regular maintenance to stay structurally sound and functional. Even if you only light a fire or two a year, various factors can lead to deterioration.
When wood burns, it can cause creosote to accumulate in a chimney. This can build up over time – even if use is infrequent. Since creosote is highly combustible, you want to be aware of its presence in your home and take steps to have it regularly removed.
Exposure to the elements can cause structural deterioration. Moisture is a serious culprit, and can cause substantial (and costly) damage. Prompt remediation in this case can save damage to your home – as well as headaches and money.
Animal infestation can also be a problem in a chimney, whether used or unused. Chimneys can serve as an entry point for wildlife such as birds, squirrels, and other small animals looking for refuge or a nesting spot. This can block airflow, create fire hazards, smells, noise, and other damage. Debris such as nesting material, twigs, and leaves can be problematic too
What Are the Benefits of Inspections?
Given the potential risks, regular inspections of your fireplace are vital. Here are some key benefits:
- Cost savings. Sometimes the temptation is to avoid inspections to save money. But catching issues early can actually save you substantially in the long run. A minor issue discovered during a professional inspection can prevent a major repair later on. That’s because, as with many things, ignoring small problems can lead to more extensive damage.
- Safety. You don’t use your chimney often, but what about when you do use it? Safety is a significant motivator behind inspections. A certified chimney sweep technician can identify hazards that can lead to chimney fires or carbon monoxide poisoning, ensuring that your home remains safer – and elevating your peace of mind.
- Efficiency. An unobstructed and well-maintained fireplace can provide better heat output and reduced fuel consumption when you do decide to light a fire. Inspections promote efficient operation – and more heat for your space.
- Compliance with insurance requirements. Some homeowners insurance policies require proof of regular maintenance for fireplaces and chimneys. Routine inspections can help keep you covered in the event of an incident.
- Maintaining home value. A well-maintained home from top to bottom will maintain its value better than one suffering neglect in any given system. Chimney inspections help protect your investment in your home – both for your own enjoyment and in the case that you would one day put it on the market.
What Do Chimney Inspectors Check For?
Certified inspectors thoroughly assess the condition of the fireplace and chimney. They will look for visible signs of damage, such as cracking, flaking masonry, and water damage.
The inspector will also look for proper clearances and check for creosote accumulation or other blockages that can impair proper ventilation, inhibit efficiency, or pose a fire risk. The flue and other components will be checked for wear or damage, and the structural integrity of the fireplace will be assessed.
How Often Should Chimneys be Inspected?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) both recommend having your chimney inspected at least annually, regardless of level of usage. This helps ensure that any issues can be identified and addressed before they become serious problems.
Is Your Chimney in Need of an Inspection? Call On Us
Whether you’ve had your chimney inspected like clockwork or the years have gotten away from you a bit, it’s never too late to get back on top of things. At Legendary Chimney Solutions, we’ll leverage our 30+ years of experience to get your chimney system in great shape. Our industry knowledge comes through in not only our range of experience, but in our reliable industry certifications and family of satisfied customers.
Safety is important to us, and we know how important a family’s home is. That’s why we pay attention to the details. We’ll be thorough, attentive, and personable so you can understand and trust the care your chimney is receiving.
For chimney inspections, maintenance, repairs, or installation, we’ll bring our “A” game to each job. Give us a call or schedule online today to get your chimney the TLC it needs to serve you well into the future!
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