We provide chimney inspections throughout a wide service area encompassing Southwest Wisconsin, Northwest Illinois, Northeast Iowa, Dubuque IA, Madison WI, and more.
Homeowners throughout these regions entrust our trained chimney experts with care of their factory-built fireplaces, wood stoves, masonry fireplaces, and other combustion heating systems.
Annual chimney inspections are recommended by leading fire safety experts, to ensure that the fireplace and chimney are safe to use, in good condition, and operating correctly. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests chimney cleaning should also be scheduled annually.
Why Are Chimney Inspections Important?
Chimney inspections are crucial due to the vulnerability of chimney systems to damage from fires and moisture. Early signs of obstruction or deterioration are often subtle, leading homeowners to mistakenly assume their chimney is safe for use. Neglected chimneys can pose serious risks, including house fires and the release of deadly carbon monoxide fumes. Regular inspections help ensure the safety of occupants and prevent potential disasters.
The sooner a damaged chimney is repaired, the safer it is for the household. Obstructions and other chimney problems are detected during a chimney inspection. Three different levels of chimney inspections have been established by the NFPA:
Level 1 Chimney Inspection
Each year, a Level 1 chimney inspection should be scheduled, though it’s even better to plan a chimney cleaning at the same time. A chimney inspection technician examines the following readily accessible interior and exterior parts of the chimney and chimney connection:
Chimney Cap • Firebox • Damper • Chimney Crown • Smoke Chamber • Chimney Exterior • Mortar Joints • Masonry • Defect in the Chimney Flue or Chimney Structure
On the roof, during the chimney inspection, the chimney sweep will look for signs of defects or cracks in the structure’s exterior. The technician will also check to be sure there are no obstructions inside the chimney.
Level 2 Chimney Inspection
If any of the following conditions apply, a Level 2 chimney inspection is needed:
• You are unfamiliar with the performance of the chimney because you recently purchased the home.
• There has recently been a chimney fire.
• You have plans to modify your heating system or chimney.
In addition to everything covered in Level 1, a Level 2 chimney inspection involves an in-depth examination of the fireplace, wood stove, furnace, or other appliance as well as the complete chimney system. Each internal joint and surface is checked.
The inside of the flue is examined from top to bottom with a special video camera. The chimney technician writes a report for the homeowner, which reflects any areas of concern detected during the inspection.
Level 3 Chimney Inspection
It’s very rare for a Level 3 chimney inspection to be needed. Not only does it include everything covered in Levels 1 and 2 but also a full investigation of difficult-to-access areas with potential deterioration. Bricks, masonry, metal flue pipes, the chimney crown, interior walls of the chimney and more may need to be removed to make needed repairs. A chimney expert will recommend a Level 3 inspection based on severe problems requiring immediate action which were discovered during Level 1 and Level 2 inspections.
We would love to help you with your chimney inspection! Contact our chimney sweep professionals at Chimney Specialists today at (608) 929-4887 or feel free to fill out our online contact form and an expert team member will promptly reach out to you!
