The Chimney Guys provides CSIA-certified Level 1 and Level 2 chimney inspections throughout the greater Columbus, Ohio, region. But mainly, we provide the peace of mind that comes from knowing your chimney is safe and fully operational.
Why You Need an Annual Chimney Inspection
Is your chimney safe? Is it working at peak efficiency? Are problems happening that you don’t know about yet?
Yearly chimney inspections are recommended by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and virtually every other hearth and fire safety organization in the U.S. Why do they recommend this?
The main reason is because a lot can be going on inside a chimney that the average homeowner can’t see.
Our licensed chimney inspectors have the training and knowledge needed to look closely at your chimney system and spot the earliest signs of breakdown, damage and malfunction.
Types of Inspections Based on Your Needs
Level 1 Chimney Inspection
This is the basic diagnostic inspection that covers all interior and exterior areas of your chimney that are readily accessible. Schedule a Level 1 inspection when no damage is known to exist. It’s like a health checkup for your chimney.
This inspection covers:
- Chimney masonry
- Cap, crown and flashing
- Chimney liner
- Smoke chamber, damper and firebox
- Assessment of debris buildup in the flue
- Diagnosing leaky chimney issues and water damage
- Diagnosing drafting problems
Level 2 Chimney Inspection
In the Columbus, OH, area, Level 2 inspections are often referred to as “real estate chimney inspections.” They should be performed anytime a home is being sold.
This inspection includes everything in a Level 1 but adds an analysis of internal joints and surfaces by using video imaging technology.
Our chimney inspections in Columbus are performed by our own trained professionals who understand the inner and outer workings of all types of chimney systems. We’re far more thorough in this work than most home inspectors, who rarely have the specific training needed to spot and diagnose chimney problems.
What Can Go Wrong With a Chimney?
A few common problems include:
- Chimney liners with cracks that let carbon monoxide and intense heat escape
- Warped chimney flashing that allows water to run down into your home
- Damage to the chimney cap and chimney crown
- Cracked bricks and crumbling mortar joints that open the way for more water to get in and cause extensive damage
- The wrong size flue, which leads to smoke backups and inefficient operation
The Inspection Report
When we finish the inspection, we’ll give you a thorough report that outlines what we found, what we did and what we recommend. This report is your “battle plan” of sorts, telling you exactly what your next steps should be in restoring safety and efficiency to your chimney system.
Schedule Your Diagnostic Chimney Inspection in Columbus
The Chimney Guys is standing by to help with all your chimney needs, from certified chimney inspections and repairs to chimney sweeping, chimney rebuilding and complete installations of fireplaces and stoves.
Since 2004, we’ve offered top-rated chimney inspections in Columbus OH, New Albany OH, Gahanna OH, Mount Vernon OH, Pickerington OH, Groveport OH, Dublin OH, Heath OH, Blacklick OH, Lancaster OH, Powell OH, and many other Ohio communities.
Reach us at (614) 446-1221, or get in touch with our contact form.
