When was the last Chimney Inspection?
When you buy a house, you may not know when the last owner cleaned or inspected the chimney. In this case, it’s important to schedule a sweep and scan before you burn. This gives you a current benchmark on the health of your chimney, and you’ll be informed if there is need for current or future repairs for safety and optimal performance of your system.
Cracks in the Flue Can Cause a House Fire
The flue is the liner inside to the chimney that carries heat, toxic fumes and smoke out of the house. Over time, cracks and deterioration may develop from excessive heat or from having contact with water. Drops of water can cause your flue to deteriorate faster when your chimney is not properly covered with an approved spark arrestor or flue cap.
A cracked flue leaves your home exposed to heat and embers reaching combustible materials, or toxic fumes entering your home. A professional chimney inspector can check your flue for damage and offer options for repair.
Masonry Cracks Let Water in
If your chimney is made of brick, masonry repairs may be needed to keep it strong and stable. After years of heating and varying weather temperatures, masonry can deteriorate and cracks begin to develop. The damper should also be tested to make sure it can be opened and closed. An inspection will offer a detailed analysis of your masonry and recommend repairs to keep your chimney strong and structurally sound.
Creosote Causes House Fires
Creosote accumulates in the flue from burning wood or solid fuels and can lead to a chimney fire if not removed.
Highwinds
High winds can happen anywhere & be dangerous to the structure of your chimney the altered wind draught can adversely affect the way the chimney draws & functions
Nests & Nesting Materials
Birds & small animals sometimes get into chimneys & nest. These nests cause blockages & poor draught causing carbon monoxide seepage
Lightning
When lightning hits a chimney large portions can be blown off this can cause the inner liner to be damaged leaving chimney vulnerable
Water Damage Leads to Expensive Repairs
If the chimney or flue is not properly covered with a flue cap, water will enter the chimney and cause fast deterioration of the flue which will mean you will have to pay for a replacement flue sooner.
What to Do?
A chimney sweep will check the condition of your chimney including the masonry, crown wash [the top cement], the flue cap and recommend appropriate repairs.
You can find a chimney sweep easily online but it is always best to get personal recommendations – so ask friends & family first. Another way to find a good tradesperson is to use websites like Checkatrade or Rated People where customers can leave reviews of work they have had done
