Did you know that the CSIA recommends investing in at least one chimney inspection every single year? This means that if you have yet to get yours completed, then the time to get it scheduled is now! Learn more about the importance of this investment below, then continue reading to learn more about all we offer here at Environmental Chimney Service. We would be happy to look things over for you soon so that you can enjoy the upcoming holiday season to the fullest!

Enjoying Your Fireplace Safely

fireplaceThere are a few major threats those with fireplaces face, and by investing in regular care and maintenance from a qualified and experienced professional, you help ensure any dangerous scenarios are avoided. This is a big requirement when gathering around the hearth with friends and family throughout Thanksgiving and Christmas! One of these potential issues comes in the form of chimney fires. As creosote accumulates inside of your flue, your chances of experiencing a chimney fire increase quite a bit.

What happens after a chimney fire? Well, the intense heat will have broken down your masonry significantly, and you’ll likely find yourself with gaps, cracks, holes, and damaged chimney components, as well. Your flashing, chimney cap, and any other metal components are sure to warp and blacken, and your brickwork and mortar will likely crumble and deteriorate quite a bit.

Unfortunately, chimney fires are usually slow-moving and quiet, meaning many fireplace owners never even realize they occur. This means that they continue using their appliance unaware of the dangers they face by doing so. All in all, scheduling that inspection will ensure you are alerted to any potential problems, and it will give your sweep a chance to spot any build-up or high amounts of creosote before a chimney fire can actually occur.

Another thing to worry about when it comes to your fireplace is the threat of house fires. If a lot of damage is present, then flames will have clear pathways to escape into your home. For example, a damaged liner can lead to any adjacent woodwork igniting in only a matter of hours.

We also urge our customers to be aware of the threat of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless and very toxic. It leads to hundreds of deaths every single year in the United States and noting its presence is next to impossible making it especially dangerous. If you are concerned that gas is leaking into your home, and if you experience nausea, dizziness, confusion, headaches, or any other symptoms related to exposure, leave the area immediately and call the proper authorities to check things over.

All in all, between hazardous fumes or smoke entering your home and the potential for your chimney to crack, crumble, or collapse, knowing what to watch out for and what services to invest in is an essential part of fireplace ownership! Here Environmental Chimney Service we can do a thorough inspection, then advise you on the next appropriate steps. We can also offer advice and information regarding your fireplace. We’re eager to give you the care and attention you deserve!

Do You Need A Level 1, 2, or 3 Inspection?

When you get your inspection booked, your sweep will need to determine whether you need a level 1, 2, or 3 inspection. What’s the difference between the three? Well, a level one inspection consists of a basic overview of all readily accessible components of the fireplace. This is appropriate for people who have not undergone any damages or major chances in the last year and who always schedule their annual inspection. The sweep will make sure so obvious damage or obstructions are present, and then you should be good to go!

A level 2 inspection consists of everything in a level 1 inspection, along with a video scan of your flue. Nothing will need to be taken apart, but your sweep will need to get a good look at every part of your structure to ensure everything is working as safely and as efficiently as possible.

Level 2 inspections are required in the following scenarios:

  • Before buying or selling property.
  • After experiencing a chimney fire.
  • After a natural disaster, such as an earthquake, tornado, or flood.
  • After changing fuel types or investing in restoration or relining work.

Finally, there’s a level 3 inspection, which is less common, but necessary if a level 1 or level 2 inspection has not revealed the source of a problem within the structure. In these cases, areas of the chimney or fireplace may need to be removed or destroyed.

Richie Baxley & His Team Is Here For You

Not sure where you stand? Let us help you out. Richie Baxley and the crew here at Environmental Chimney Service have the training, expertise, and in-depth knowledge necessary to get any chimney-related job completed, and we are certain we can provide you the care and attention you deserve every step of the way.

Why trust us? Because we’ve been serving the area for close to three decades now and throughout this time our customer satisfaction level has continued to excel. By working with highly-esteemed organizations like the CSIA, we are able to stay informed and up-to-date on any new techniques or technologies in this ever-evolving industry, and we pride ourselves on always putting the safety and well-being of our customer base first.

Ready to get started? Great! Reach out today.