There is no doubt that your chimney and fireplace add value to your home. Home owners (and home buyers) love fireplaces! When you upgrade one or add one, you make an investment in your own property. Once you do that, you have to maintain it properly. If you fail, it can become a problem instead of an asset.
Routine Maintenance Prevents Damage
The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) both agree on this: routine maintenance is necessary for safe and efficient chimney systems. Regular chimney sweeps keep the flue and fireplace clean of flammable debris and creosote that can cause a fire. A clean chimney also means the chimney will work more efficiently, and with less risk of fire. It’s the annual inspection, however, that will detect issues, no matter how serious, before they lead to damage, fire, and injury.
CSIA Inspections
Every chimney should be assessed annually. However, chimney use and care varies from home to home. Due to this, the CSIA has categorized inspections into three levels:
- Level One
Completed annually when no changes are made to the system and continued use is expected in the same manner. - Level Two
Required when a level one inspection shows a concern or when changes are made to the system (such as new installation or repair). In addition, following a natural occurrence that can affect the chimney (tropical storm, fire, etc.) and before the sale or transfer of property. - Level Three
Required when a level one or two inspection identifies a serious hazard.
A chimney inspection is the best way to prevent fire within your chimney system. When level one inspections are scheduled annually, you’re less likely to need a level three inspection. Why? Repairs will be made before minor damage becomes a major hazard. Maintaining your chimney at low cost per year is cheaper than a major repair or recovering from a fire! When it comes to your family’s safety, and protecting your home from damage, chimney inspections are the best investment you can make.
When to Schedule
It is best to schedule your inspection as soon as possible if you can’t remember the last time you had one! Call your homeowners insurance and ask them if they cover any of the inspection cost. Also, find out if they require a certain local company or certification. Most homeowners insurance providers look for the CSIA signature on documentation of repairs and maintenance. Brickliners technicians are CSIA certified, experienced, and professional. We take appointments year-round for all chimney services. Having said that, we highly recommend an inspection before burn season. This is especially true if you haven’t had one in the last 12 months.
A Brickliner’s chimney inspection is quick, thorough, and affordable. When you schedule with us, you can rest assured that your chimney is safe and ready for your first fire of the season.
Call Brickliner’s at 802-872-0123 or request an appointment online!
