A chimney is dangerous and can introduce smoke, toxins, and combustion byproducts into your home. An annual chimney inspection and cleaning can help prevent fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and other hazards. Contact Chimney Inspection Baltimore now!
A level 1 inspection involves a visual survey of all accessible areas of the chimney structure and flue. This includes looking inside the chimney for creosote and obstructions that cause drafting problems.
According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), nearly all chimney and fireplace fires are preventable. They advise that homeowners schedule annual chimney inspections with a CSIA-certified sweep to help keep the home and family safe. Depending on the level of inspection, these visits can cost as little as $150. However, if an issue is identified that requires a more in-depth examination, the cost can quickly increase to hundreds of dollars. This is why it is best to perform routine chimney inspections to avoid the need for escalated evaluations.
A Level 1 chimney inspection consists of a visual examination of the readily accessible parts of the fireplace and chimney system including the fireplace, firebox, damper and flue opening. In addition, the sweep will assess the basic soundness of the chimney structure and look for any signs of deterioration or disrepair.
The inspection may also include the chimney top and any part of the structure that protrudes from the roof. This level of chimney inspection is usually performed as part of a cleaning and maintenance service and is repeated every year. In general, a Level 1 chimney inspection is appropriate in situations where the chimney system is used regularly, there are no major changes and the homeowner plans to continue using it as usual.
For homeowners who have a wood-burning fireplace, this is the most common level of chimney inspection. However, gas and alternate fuel chimney systems can also undergo a Level 1 inspection.
If there are any changes to the fireplace and chimney system, or if the chimney has suffered damage, it is recommended that a Level 2 chimney inspection be conducted. This more thorough exam involves all of the visual checks of Level 1, but also includes examining more accessible areas like crawl spaces, basements and attics to make sure that there is adequate clearance from combustible materials. It also requires getting on the roof to more thoroughly inspect the chimney top, inside and out.
Level 2 chimney inspections are often required by real estate transactions and after a chimney fire. However, they can also be a wise investment if the chimney or home has experienced significant structural damage due to weather events such as tornadoes and hurricanes.
Level 2 Inspection
A level 2 chimney inspection is a detailed, professional examination of all accessible portions of the chimney inside and out, including attics, basements and crawl spaces. The technician will also examine all combustible materials within 12 feet of the chimney, and use a video scan to assess the inside of the flue system. This level of inspection is required upon the sale of a home, and it’s also recommended before any changes are made to the fireplace and chimney.
While a home inspector may shine a flashlight into the chimney and look at the flashing and crown, they will not be able to see any issues inside the flue of the chimney. Having a flue that isn’t functioning properly could be dangerous, so it’s important to get any problems diagnosed right away.
In a level 2 inspection, the professional will use a video scanner to check for damage inside the flue walls and the joints of the liners. They will also take interior photos and assess the condition of all combustibles within 18 inches of the fireplace, including the firebox and lintels above the firebox opening. The chimney sweep will also determine if the chimney is in need of a chimney cap and will recommend a cleaning if necessary.
Chimneys are designed to handle the hot, noxious byproducts of burning wood and other solid fuels and draw in fresh air for combustion. However, if the chimney isn’t maintained regularly, these byproducts can build up in the chimney and flue and cause structural problems. In addition, a damaged or deteriorating chimney is a fire hazard and a health risk to the family.
A chimney is one of the most critical systems in a home. It’s the only way to safely expel the byproducts of combustion and draw in oxygen for proper combustion. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t have the time or expertise to maintain their own chimneys. In fact, many homeowners are unaware of the importance of a chimney, which is why it’s so crucial to hire a professional to perform a regular level 2 chimney inspection.
Level 3 Inspection
Chimney inspectors often use specialized equipment, such as video scanning and a chimney camera, to examine chimney components and determine their condition. Depending on the level of inspection, they can also use more common tools to access hard-to-reach parts of your chimney and fireplace.
The National Fire Protection Association classifies chimney and fireplace system inspections into three levels as part of NFPA 211. This standard defines what types of inspections are appropriate for your chimney and what the purpose of each is. The most basic inspection is the Level 1 inspection. A level 1 inspection typically is a quick, visual examination by an experienced chimney professional of the easily accessible portions of your chimney’s interior and exterior. The professional may use a flashlight and a screwdriver to check for simple issues like combustible materials blocking the flue.
In contrast, a level 2 inspection requires an extensive exam of the accessible areas of your chimney. This includes your home’s attics, crawl spaces and basements to ensure that you have proper clearances from combustible material. It also looks at your fireplace components, including flue liners and connectors. A level 2 inspection may require the use of a video scan to examine these harder-to-reach portions of your chimney.
During a level 3 inspection, your chimney technician is looking for serious problems that are not easily spotted. This level of chimney inspection is necessary when a Level 1 or Level 2 inspection indicates that your chimney has serious flaws and dangers that cannot be addressed without accessing concealed areas. During a level 3 inspection, your certified chimney professional will use invasive procedures to reach the hidden areas of your chimney to assess their condition.
Whether you’re a homeowner or a real estate professional, it’s important to understand the levels of chimney inspection to keep your family and potential homeowners safe. A seasoned chimney sweep can help you choose the right inspection service to meet your needs, and can also recommend ways to improve your chimney’s safety and performance. Contact the professionals at All Seasons Chimney to schedule an appointment.
Level 4 Inspection
When the temperatures start to drop, having a fireplace and chimney is a great asset for cozy winter evenings. However, before you can enjoy your fireplace and chimney, it’s important that it is in good working condition. This is why it’s important to have a regular chimney inspection. Chimney inspections should be done once a year to ensure that there are no serious issues with your fireplace and chimney system.
Chimney inspections will usually include a visual examination of all the readily accessible parts of your chimney and fireplace structure, along with a check to make sure that all components work properly. However, sometimes a more in-depth investigation is necessary. This is what a level 2 chimney inspection is all about.
During a level 2 chimney inspection, your inspector will use video equipment to get a closer look at the inside of your flue and the rest of your chimney. They’ll also examine your attic, crawl space and basement to see any areas of the chimney that aren’t easily accessed. This type of chimney inspection is usually needed if you’ve made any changes to your fireplace or chimney since your last inspection, such as changing the fuel type or relining your flue. It’s also necessary if you’ve had any events that could have damaged your chimney or fireplace, such as an earthquake or chimney fire.
Getting a level 2 chimney inspection is also smart if you’re planning to sell your home in the near future, as potential buyers will want to be sure that your chimney is safe to use. During a level 2 chimney inspection, the professional will check for signs of a drafting issue, such as leaves, twigs or small animal nests blocking the chimney. These can prevent proper airflow, allowing smoke and toxic gases to back up into your home instead of being pushed outside.
In most cases, your chimney sweep will be able to perform a level 2 chimney inspection within two hours. You should have your chimney cooled down for 24 hours prior to the inspection and be sure that no fires are being burned during this time. Similarly, it’s recommended that you contain any pets during the chimney inspection so they don’t try to escape or become frightened.