We Provide 3 Levels of In-Depth Chimney Inspections
According to figures from the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), an average of nearly 27,000 fires related to fireplaces, chimneys, and chimney connectors occur each year. These fires resulted from a variety of issues, including a failure to have the chimney cleaned (aka swept) of combustible creosote. Defective construction or improper installation of prefabricated chimney systems and appliances also account for many of these fires. Water damage can also contribute to chimney failure.
The best way to keep abreast of any issues or hazards in your chimney system is to have it professionally inspected every year by a chimney sweep that has nationally recognized credentials. Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps’ technicians proudly carry multiple certifications. We engage in continuing education and certification from the NCSG (National Chimney Sweep Guild), CSIA (Chimney Safety Institute of America), and NFI (National Fireplace Institute), affirming our commitment to provide the highest quality chimney inspections, sweepings, and repairs.
The vented heating appliance you’re using – whether it’s a free standing stove, a simple open hearth fireplace, or a wood stove insert that is installed in a fireplace – is dependent on the chimney and venting system. Managing risk and guaranteeing efficient operation is critical. That’s why the NFPA recommends that every venting system be thoroughly and professionally inspected every year. It’s a small investment (when compared to potential loss of property or life) that helps protect the health of your chimney and prevent chimney fires, home fires, and poisoning by toxic carbon monoxide.
Levels of Chimney Inspections
The industry standard includes three different levels of inspection:
Level 1/Visual Inspections
For a Level 1 chimney inspection, Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps’ technicians examine readily-accessible portions of the chimney interior and exterior, as well as the appliance and chimney connectors. We’ll look for levels of creosote buildup, blockages, obvious water damage, and whether the appliance has been properly installed. This kind of visual inspection is included with all of our chimney sweeping services, and is recommended annually when your system or the way you use it hasn’t changed (you haven’t just purchased the home, installed a new appliance, or changed fuels).
Level 2/Video Inspections
When a more thorough inspection is needed, we’ll perform a Level 2 inspection (includes video scanning) that goes beyond the readily-accessible areas addressed in the visual inspection. This inspection will include a look at the attic, basement, and crawl space (so long as the removal of parts isn’t required to do so), in addition to everything that is done during a Level 1 inspection. We’ll recommend a Level 2 inspection (aka video inspection):
- if a property is changing hands
- if changes have been made to the venting system (a new appliance or fuel type)
- or if there’s been damage or possible damage (due to a chimney or building fire, a major weather event, or an earthquake)
This level of inspection allows us to more closely inspect areas of the chimney that we may not be able to see with a basic visual inspection.
Level 3 Inspection
According to NFPA guidelines, we’d only recommend a Level 3 inspection if a visual or video inspection indicated the possibility of a hidden hazard. Usually this level of inspection would require some kind of demolition (removal of chimney parts or areas of the adjacent structure) in order to access areas of concern.
How Often Should I Get a Chimney Inspection?
Annual inspections are the standard recommendation from the NFPA, and that applies to any fireplace or heating appliance that gets used on a regular basis. Consistent yearly check-ups are the most reliable way to catch developing issues before they result in expensive repairs.
Certain situations call for a chimney inspection outside of that annual schedule. Homeowners who have recently purchased a property should have the chimney evaluated before using it, regardless of when it was last serviced. Similarly, a chimney fire, major storm, or seismic event warrants an immediate inspection since that kind of stress can cause structural damage that isn’t visible from the outside.
Performance changes are also worth acting on promptly. Smoke entering the room, unusual odors, or drafting problems are all signs that something may need professional attention sooner rather than later.
When Is the Best Time of Year To Schedule a Chimney Inspection?
Late summer or early fall is the ideal window for scheduling a chimney inspection. Getting ahead of the heating season means any necessary repairs can be completed before you need your fireplace. Spring is also a smart time to schedule, especially if your chimney saw heavy use over the winter and you want to assess any wear before moisture and warmer temperatures worsen existing damage. Regardless of timing, the best appointment is simply the one you don’t put off. Year-round scheduling is available, so there’s no reason to wait.
What Happens After a Chimney Inspection?
Once we’ve completed your inspection, we don’t just hand you a report and leave you guessing. We walk you through our findings clearly and honestly, so you know exactly where things stand. Depending on what we find, next steps typically fall into one of these categories:
- No action needed. If your chimney is in good condition, we’ll document that clearly and let you know when to schedule your next inspection.
- Minor repairs recommended. Issues like small mortar cracks, deteriorating crown sealant, or a damaged damper are common findings that we can address quickly before they escalate.
- Liner repair or relining. A compromised flue liner is a serious safety concern. We’ll explain your relining options and help you choose the right solution for your system and budget.
- Masonry restoration. Spalling brick, damaged mortar joints, or water intrusion often require targeted tuckpointing or rebuilding work to restore structural integrity.
Every recommendation we make is backed by the documentation and imagery gathered during your inspection, so you’re never taking our word for it blindly.
Contact Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps, Today!
Let Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps “Bless Your Hearth” and keep your chimney system and home as safe as possible. Call or click here to schedule your annual chimney inspection!
Our experience, paired with our continued training, helps us to quickly troubleshoot chimney issues, and offer the best options for repair or restoration available. When it comes to service for your chimney and fireplace systems, Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps know what to do to keep your fires burning warmly – just where you want them and no place else.