We Perform Chimney Inspections for Seattle Residents
Even if you don’t make use of your fireplace, insert or stove year-round, there are a lot of things that can happen to the system without your knowledge. Here in Seattle, we get quite a bit of rain, wind, and snow – all of which can seriously deteriorate the chimney’s masonry. Not only does water corrode masonry, but it can also cause vegetation and algae to grow on brick and stone. It’s also possible that animals may have set up shop and chimney parts could be damaged or failing. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg!
Unfortunately, without proper and professional inspections, you could be under the impression that your system is safe and ready for another burn season, when in reality, it’s far from it. That’s why the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommend having your chimney system inspected annually.
What Are The Three Levels Of Inspection & Which One Do I Need?
The NFPA has guidelines for the three levels of inspections: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Below we’ll give you a little breakdown about what each level includes and when each is recommended:
- Level 1 Chimney Inspection: Level 1 overviews are designed to evaluate systems that have not experienced any changes since the previous inspection. If your appliance and chimney system are performing excellently and you don’t plan on doing anything different this burn season, a level 1 chimney inspection should suffice. This will involve a look at all accessible parts of the system, using a flashlight and a good (professionally trained) eye.
- Level 2 Chimney Inspection: Level 2 inspections are typically recommended any time a new appliance or liner type is installed, after any natural disaster or major event (like a chimney fire), or when changing fuels or property ownership. This level should involve a video inspection, in addition to an inspection of everything included in a level 1 inspection.
- Level 3 Chimney Inspection: Level 3 inspections are really only necessary when a problem can’t be identified using a level 1 or level 2 inspection. These inspections typically involve the removal of parts of the chimney or home, and they are typically reserved for systems that have experienced a major destructive event.
How Often Should I Book a Chimney Inspection?
Some common questions we get:
- How often do I need to schedule chimney inspections?
- Do I need regular inspections if I burn gas in my fireplace?
- Do I need chimney inspections and maintenance if I don’t use my fireplace?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends an annual chimney inspection for all heating systems – regardless of how often you use it or what type of fuel you burn. Regular inspections help identify and address potential issues such as creosote buildup, blockages, and structural damage, ensuring the safety and efficiency of the chimney and your home.
Even if a chimney is not frequently used, it’s still important to have an annual inspection! Environmental factors, animal invasion, and just the natural aging of the chimney can contribute to problems over time. This not only hurts the resale value of your home, but it can cause damage that spreads to other areas of your household, as well. Additionally, animals or debris may find their way into the chimney, leading to blockages, deterioration, smelly living spaces, and other issues.
Need to Book a Sweeping?
Save time by getting your annual chimney sweep booked with us while we perform an inspection. This ensures harmful creosote, as well as animals, their nesting materials, and any outside debris are cleared out and not triggering any threats that could put your home at risk – think chimney fires, smoke in the home, carbon monoxide exposure, home fires, and more.
We’d be happy to perform a thorough sweep, ensuring your system is good to go come burning season.
If You Live In The Seattle Area, Give Pristine Sweeps A Call!
For more information on chimney inspections, chimney sweepings, or video scans, please give us a call at 206-574-8414. Our experts would be more than happy to walk you through a typical inspection and help you decide which level is right for you. Ready to schedule an appointment? Reach out online or give us a call. We’re here and happy to help.
Our masonry chimney and fireplace repairs are all part of our chimney and fireplace repair services. You can count on Pristine Sweeps.