Trust Us for Chimney Inspection Services Near You in Grand Junction
The team at Stove Depot and Chimney Works provides professional chimney inspection services near Grand Junction, Montrose, Aspen, and more. Whether you use your fireplace multiple times a week or only a few times per year, annual inspections are a must for safer use and maintaining home value. Our experienced technicians are trained to spot potential threats before they become costly repairs – book your spot today.
What Is a Chimney Inspection?
A chimney inspection is a professional evaluation of the condition and safety of your chimney system. During the overview, your tech should check for flue blockages, creosote buildup, structural damage, and anything that might hinder proper ventilation – essentially making certain the chimney is functioning as safely as possible.
Chimney inspections should be done annually or before using a fireplace after a long period of disuse. There are three types of chimney inspections:
- Level 1: If the fireplace has been maintained regularly and there have been no changes to the system, a level 1 inspection should be all you need. It includes a visual assessment of all readily accessible parts of the chimney system (firebox, damper, flue, exterior, etc.). The tech will check for any visible signs of damage or blockages.
- Level 2: A Level 2 inspection is more detailed and required in special circumstances (selling a home, after relining, etc.). In addition to everything covered in a Level 1, a Level 2 inspection includes the use of video/camera scanning equipment to get a close-up look inside the flue. The tech will also check accessible areas of the chimney in the attic, crawl space, and basement.
- Level 3: A Level 3 inspection is performed when serious hazards are suspected, and access to concealed areas is required. They may involve removing components of the home or chimney structure, such as drywall, bricks, siding, or flooring, to gain access to potentially damaged or unsafe areas.
What’s Included in a Level 2 Chimney Inspection? When Is a Level 2 Chimney Inspection Required?
During a level 2 chimney inspection, a certified chimney sweep will use a video camera to inspect the interior of the chimney and check for any cracks, damage, or other issues that may not be visible during a more basic level 1 inspection. This inspection can help identify any potential safety hazards and ensure that your chimney is functioning properly.
Level 2 inspections should include a video camera inspection, an examination of all accessible areas (including areas not covered in a level 1 inspection, such as the attic, crawl spaces, etc.), and an assessment of the flue connections and liner.
When should you opt for a level 2 chimney inspection over a level 1?
- When buying or selling a home. If you are transferring property, a level 2 inspection is necessary to ensure safe and functioning properly before ownership changes hands. Always opt for an inspection with a certified chimney sweep, as a home inspector will only gather the most basic info and may miss important issues.
- After changes to the system. If you have made changes to your chimney or fireplace – such as installing a new insert, upgrading fuel types, installing a new chimney liner, etc. – you’ll want to book a level 2 inspection to ensure all is looking good before use.
- After a chimney fire. Chimney fires can be extremely damaging to your chimney and its components, and a level 2 overview will ensure that any damage from the fire is properly identified – and addressed – before use.
- After a major weather event. If you have experienced any severe weather or natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, high winds, lightning strikes, etc.) a level 2 inspection is necessary to accurately assess the condition of the chimney and determine if any repairs are needed.
- When installing a new appliance. If you are installing a new appliance, such as a wood stove or gas fireplace, a level 2 inspection is necessary to ensure the chimney is properly sized and configured for the new appliance.
- When experiencing performance issues. If you have smoke backing into your home, strange fireplace odors, any signs of water damage, or other issues presenting themselves, scheduling a level 2 inspection is a good idea. This gives the sweep the opportunity to check every nook and cranny for potential issues.
- After extended periods of disuse. If it has been more than a year since your last chimney inspection or if you haven’t used your fireplace for an extended period of time, it’s a good idea to get a level 2 inspection to ensure that there are no issues that have developed since your last check-up.
- As a level 1 inspection follow-up. If a Level 1 inspection uncovers suspicious or limited-access issues, signs of liner damage or moisture invasion, or creosote that require deeper investigation, a level 2 inspection may be necessary.
All in all, level 2 chimney inspection is an important diagnostic tool for chimney technicians. They make sure your entire fireplace system is structurally sound and ready for use. Whether you need a thorough evaluation or new chimney products, we’re here to help – reach out today!
Is Sweeping a Chimney the Same as Inspecting a Chimney?
Sweeping a chimney and inspecting a chimney are often lumped together as the same service – and since they’re typically performed together, this can add to the confusion. That said, they are technically two different offerings, each vital to the structural soundness of your fireplace and flue. Simply put…
- Sweeping a chimney removes soot and ash from the chimney flue.
- Inspecting a chimney involves an evaluation of the interior and exterior portions of the chimney.
Chimney inspections are an important diagnostic tool and can help us find the cause of long-term performance problems – think drafting, leaks, animal entry, etc. That said, we often need to sweep the flue first to make a proper diagnosis and ensure we’re getting a clear picture.
Do I Need an Annual Chimney Inspection if I Don’t Use My Fireplace?
It’s not an uncommon question for homeowners: If I haven’t used my fireplace, do I really need to get the chimney inspected?
The short answer is yes. Here’s why:
- The chimney is exposed to the elements, whether you use it or not. Even if your fireplace sits unused, your chimney is still exposed to wind, rain, snow, and temperature changes. Harsh weather conditions can cause cracks in the masonry, deterioration of chimney components, and leak damages – all of which can invite damages to other areas of your home.
- Animals may be nesting in your flue. Birds, squirrels, raccoons, and similar critters often see chimneys as cozy homes – especially unused chimneys. Animals can cause damage, as well as interrupt your home’s ambiance with their loud noises, foul odors, and pest invitations.
- Your insurance or warranty may require it. Some homeowner insurance policies and appliance warranties require regular chimney inspections to maintain coverage. And even if they don’t, yearly inspections will prove to your insurance provider that storm or accidental damages weren’t actually due to neglect (in which case coverage would be denied).
- Inspections save you money over time. Thinking long term, annual inspections are an affordable way to maintain home value over the years. It’s a lot better to invest a little bit in maintenance over time, rather than having to shell out the big bucks for extensive repairs or rebuilds down the line.
So yes – even if you don’t use your fireplace, your chimney still needs regular servicing. An annual inspection ensures that your chimney is safer for use (if/when you need it), structurally sound, and not damaging other areas of your home.
Schedule Your Professional Chimney Inspection Today
Scheduling regular chimney inspections is one of the smartest ways to protect your home, your investment, and your peace of mind. At Stove Depot and Chimney Works, we strive to bring Grand Junction and its surrounding areas the highest level of professionalism and care. From routine level 1 chimney inspections to more in-depth level 2 evaluations, we want to help you every step of the way.
Don’t wait until minor issues turn into major problems – contact us today to schedule.
Chimney inspections and chimney sweepings often go hand in hand. Reach out today to learn about all the services we can offer you.