Essential Areas Chimney Sweeps Will Examine

Chimneys are prone to have problems, a fact no one knows better than trained, certified chimney sweeps. Annual chimney inspections are highly recommended. They are important enough that leading U.S. fire safety organizations all agree that homeowners should schedule yearly chimney inspections without fail. Statistics show that many thousands of house fires occur each year because of dirty, neglected chimneys. The following are some of the essential areas that chimney sweeps carefully examine and potential problems they look for during a chimney inspection and cleaning.

Obstructions

The chimney flue must be free of obstructions, and chimney blockage occurs for a number of reasons. It is very risky to assume that a chimney is clear of debris. The following are examples of common chimney obstructions that need to be removed before using a fireplace:

Creosote, a highly flammable combustion by-product of wood fires, must be removed routinely. Otherwise, it will build up, layer upon layer, until the chimney draft is blocked. The risk of a destructive chimney fire is greatly increased when there is an excess of creosote in the flue. In addition, the blockage can result in potentially life-threatening toxic fumes going into the home.

Leaves, tree limbs, and other debris from nature.

Birds, birds’ nests, and an assortment of animals are commonly found in chimneys that don’t have a chimney cap with mesh that keeps creatures out.

Structural Soundness

The interior and exterior chimney and fireplace are carefully checked by chimney sweeps for signs of deterioration.

Firebox

The firebox where fires are burned is checked to ensure that there is no damage to the back wall. If there are any signs of deterioration, it is crucial to have the firebox repaired so that combustible parts of the home aren’t exposed to extreme temperatures.

Chimney Exterior

Exterior masonry is exposed to harsh elements in nature, and moisture does the most damage. Practically every component of a chimney is designed to help protect the masonry from moisture intrusion. Each of those components is subject to damage, however. Chimney sweeps check to see if the chimney crown is cracked, the mortar is beginning to flake off, or if there is evidence of spalling, which means that the brick face is breaking off and leaving debris around the chimney. Chimney repairs are needed if your chimney sweep sees any of these things or other potential problems.

Chimney Flashing

The chimney flashing is prone to cause chimney leaks. Chimney sweeps are familiar with the tendency for leaks to occur because of flashing, and they are careful to ensure that the flashing is creating a watertight seal between the roof and the chimney.

Chimney Liner

Checking a chimney liner thoroughly requires the use of special video equipment made just for that purpose. Same as with the firebox, there should be no damage at all to the chimney liner. If there is even so much as a small crack, chimney liner repair or replacement is necessary for the safety of your home and family.

Dubuque Fireplace and Patio

The expert chimney sweeps at Dubuque Fireplace and Patio have the training and experience to provide quality chimney inspections, chimney repairs, chimney cleaning, masonry work, and more. We also offer sales and installation of new hearth appliances.

Contact the experts at Dubuque Fireplace and Patio today at (563) 582-5156.

In the Highland, WI, area, contact our sister store, Chimney Specialists Inc., at (608) 929-4887.