New Year’s Resolution: Schedule Your Annual Chimney Inspection
Still need help deciding on a New Year’s Resolution? As the winter cold arrives in Central Ohio and homeowners crank up the heat on fueled appliances, like fireplaces, stoves, and furnaces, the number of house fires also increases. Since the beginning of December, fire departments from the City of Columbus and surrounding townships have been responding to residential chimney fires nearly daily. So, this year, make fire safety your New Year’s resolution and schedule your annual chimney inspection today.
The Importance of Annual Chimney Inspections
In our humid continental climate, with hot summers, freezing winters, and no dry season, a chimney can experience significant wear and tear during the year. Creosote buildup, cracks in the chimney liner from previous fires, and damage to the masonry or flashing can result from freeze-thaw cycles and snow accumulation. These problems can lead to various health, safety, and structural issues. For this reason, the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and fire departments recommend having professional chimney inspections EVERY year.
What to Expect During a Chimney Inspection
When you schedule an inspection with The Chimney Guys, a licensed and certified chimney professional will perform a complete visual review of the entire chimney system in accordance with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA standards and codes:
- Visual Inspection: The technician will examine the readily accessible portions of the chimney, flue, and connected appliances. The sweep will use a ladder to safely climb onto the roof to check the exterior components, such as your chimney cap, crown, and flashing.
- Flue Liner: The tech will use a flashlight to inspect the flue, checking for blockages, flammable creosote buildup, and cracks or damage in the chimney liner. A specialized camera may be inserted to view the entire interior of the liner in real-time, looking for tiny cracks that are not typically visible to the unaided eye.
- Exterior Review: Inspecting the masonry and joints for structural damage or deterioration.
- Written Report: We provide a detailed report outlining the chimney’s overall condition, any discovered hazards, and recommendations for necessary repairs or cleaning.
Creosote and Carbon Monoxide: Two Hidden Dangers
- Creosote Buildup: Creosote is a natural byproduct of combustion that accumulates inside the flue. It starts as a sooty, black, or brown oily residue but hardens into a shiny glaze as it lingers and builds up. The intense heat or even a spark can ignite the creosote, causing a fire that can quickly spread to the rest of your home.
- Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Carbon monoxide (CO) is another dangerous byproduct of combustion. This odorless, colorless, and poisonous gas can seep into your living space through masonry damage, cracks in the liner, flue obstructions, or insufficient draft. Any of these issues can cause CO to flow back down the flue and into the home, leading to carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be fatal.
Unchecked Masonry Damage Leads to Chimney Leaks
In addition to fire and health risks, Central Ohio’s freeze-thaw cycles pose a significant threat to your chimney’s structure. The chimney is the most exposed structure on your roof. When cold weather causes water-absorbed masonry to freeze, the expanding ice crystals crack the brickwork, deteriorating the bricks and mortar joints.
This damage can lead to chimney leaks, causing costly interior damage to your walls, ceilings, and attic. In severe cases, it can cause the chimney to collapse. An inspection catches masonry damage early, saving you thousands in future repairs and rebuilding.
Columbus Fire Safety: Schedule Your Annual Chimney Inspection Today!
Don’t let the creosote grinch ruin your Christmas! The licensed chimney professionals at The Chimney Guys offer certified inspection and cleaning services to safeguard your home and family from fire, carbon monoxide poisoning, and other structural hazards. We proudly serve the entire Columbus metro area, including Dublin, Hebron, Centerburg, and Marysville, OH. Make your New Year’s resolution to contact us to schedule an appointment or use the simple contact form on our website.
