Inspection Diagnoses Chimney and Fireplace Health
With our rolling hills in the Piedmont region, we’re not strangers to trees — pines, maples, oaks, and other varieties. In addition to all the beauty they bring, we can also expect leaves and needles to drop. While we are mostly preoccupied with raking leaves up from our lawns, they can also fall into our chimneys. Leaves, twigs, nests, sap, and creosote buildup are all reasons to have your fireplace and chimney inspected. But whether you burn wood, coal, oil, or gas, your heating system has a chimney that needs regular attention.
What’s Going on Inside Your Chimney?
The chimney is thru-way that pulls gases and smoke out of your home to the outside. So all the elements that are not meant to be in your home pass through the chimney. It’s natural that residue and dirt build up, in addition to all the other debris from the outside. The National Fire Protection Association recommends an annual inspection to avoid creosote build up that can cause carbon monoxide poisoning or chimney fires.
So much can happen inside your chimney that you simply can’t see. With time, moisture, and use, bricks can begin to break down, creating cracks and missing mortar that lead to leaks. If you have an older chimney, it may not be lined. A chimney lining is an extra layer of protection that helps maintain the integrity of the stack. And we can’t forget the leaves and twigs that fall throughout the year, and the animals that crawl into your chimney, build nests — and might even become trapped in your chimney system.
How Do We Know?
We can see exactly what’s happening inside your chimney because we use a camera to perform a thorough internal video inspection. We show you the condition of your chimney and recommend action, such as a sweeping, lining, and any repairs that need to be made. We also inspect your fireplace. Since the firebox has constant and direct exposure to heat, the bricks may begin to break down. Technicians at Owens Chimney Systems are certified to make masonry repairs in your fireplace or outside on your chimney. But your structure may also need new flashing, chimney cap, relining, or waterproofing. Seeing what your fireplace and chimney have endured can help you decide on needed services and repairs. After that, regular cleaning and maintenance prolong the life of your fireplace and chimney. That helps keep your home and family safe and ensures continued enjoyment in front of the fire. It all starts with an inspection and you can trust the professionals at Owens Chimney Systems. We are certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America and are members of National Chimney Sweep Guild, the North Carolina Chimney Sweep Association, and the South Carolina Chimney Sweep Guild. Contact Owens Chimney Systems to schedule an appointment online or give us a call!