Your home is a place of warmth and pride. Your fireplace should take part in that feeling. Fireplaces provide warmth and comfort throughout the fall and winter months through housing an open fire. Just like any other part of the home, your chimney and fireplace system will require regular maintenance. Regular maintenance and upkeep will ensure that the chimney and fireplace system are functioning properly and safely.

A sweep and inspection are important to uncover the hidden secrets of the chimney system. Performing these steps uncovers needed to be repairs, remove any blockages, and flammable materials. With that being said, there are a few questions to answer.

How often should I have an inspection performed?

According to the National Fire Protection Association, it states that chimneys should be inspected and swept at least once a year, if not twice a year.

What should I expect during an inspection?

Normally, chimney inspections will follow a three-level format. Each level determines how in-depth the inspection will be. This is given to the homeowner afterwards by the technician.

The Three Levels of Chimney Inspections

Level 1:

A Level 1 chimney inspection is the standard base inspection. The chimney technician will examine the chimney to ensure that there are no structural issues, obstructions, or damage to the chimney system. This inspection covers the easily accessible areas of the chimney exterior, interior, and connections. A Level 1 inspection does not require specialized tools.

Level 2:

Level 2 inspections are required when a change occurs within the chimney system. Such changes can include change of fuel type, shape or material in the flue (such as lining). Adding or replacing an appliance will also require an inspection. Also, this level is mandatory when selling or transferring a property. Malfunctions and damage caused by external factors such as extreme weather or building or chimney fires also call for a Level 2 inspection.

There is no need for specialty tools to perform a Level 2 inspection. However, it does include an internal visual inspection performed with video scanning or other means.

Level 3:

A Level 1 or a Level 2 inspection may reveal hidden hazards. In this case, a Level 3 inspection will be required. Level 3 inspection involves specialized tools and may require the removal of some of the building or chimney to access problematic areas.

Annual inspections ensure that your chimney system is operating properly.

Looking to have a sweep and inspection done? Look no further, Allstar Chimney Sweep is here to provide you with high-quality service and experience.