Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

Why should my chimney be inspected and cleaned?

Preventive maintenance is always more cost-effective than repairs that could have been avoided. Annual inspections are critical for chimneys used regularly, but even if used occasionally a chimney and fireplace should be routinely inspected and cleaned if necessary.

Inspection and cleaning results:

1. Determine chimney integrity for all types of fuel.
2. Catch problems early- before they cause expensive trouble.
3. Reassures peace of mind.
4. Saves money, hassles and potential lawsuits if the property is for sale or rent.

How often should I have my chimney cleaned?

The C.S.I.A. (Chimney Safety Institute of America) recommend that the chimney be inspected and cleaned once a year.I recommend to my customers after about 30-40 fires a chimney should be cleaned and inspected. It also depends on the size of the chimney. A lot of new fireplaces have smaller flues and get dirtier a lot quicker. If you like using your fireplace a lot during the burning season it would be wise for you to get the chimney cleaned twice a season.

Why do I need a chimney cap?

A proper rain cap/spark arrester and properly constructed chimney crown will prevent water from damaging the chimney. With the rain cap, it will keep birds, squirrels, raccoons or any other little animal that could fit inside of the flue opening. Keeping water from coming into the chimney is real important as when water and soot mix during a rain it can cause a breakdown of the fire lining on the inside of the flue and integrity of the structure.

If I am selling my home, do I have to have a chimney inspection in addition to my home inspection?

Yes, the National Fire Protection Association NFPA211 standard for solid fuel (wood) burning appliances requires a level II inspection at the sale or transfer of property. We (The Chimney Experts, Inc.) offer video inspections with a full report and color photos that will illustrate our findings. If there are any problems with the chimney we will recommend what is needed to fix the problem along with an estimate.

What causes my fireplace to smoke?There are many reasons why the fireplace will smoke. The most common situations are: 1) the damper is closed when lighting the fire, and, 2) the spark arrester is clogged and needs to be cleaned. A lot of people will over fire the fireplace and cause a large blackening of the facing.If you have smoke coming into the home it is wise to get your fireplace and chimney inspected to find out the problem so the smoke doesn't become a health hazard.

Please call 800-897-8295 or complete and submit our Contact Us form if you have any questions or would like to have us assist you with any chimney or fireplace service.