Annual inspection and cleaning of the chimney are necessary according to the standards of the National Fire Protection Association. In most cases, homeowners are unaware of problems that may exist until it is too late that’s why inspection on the chimney and fireplace/furnace system is essential to alert you to a potential problem before it becomes a costly repair or a safety issue.

There are varying levels of Chimney Inspections that can be done depending on each individual case. Having your inspection and cleaning scheduled in the late summer or early fall is a good idea before you begin using the chimney or furnace during the heating season. 

Here at Annapolis Chimney, many of our customers request to be on a regular annual schedule for this work. Another critical time to schedule an inspection is if you have changed to a new furnace or if you have just purchased the home and want to be sure about the condition of the chimney system. 

We always strive to be prompt and on time. Since we are a flexible company, you could find the time when it will be convenient for you. There is also an opportunity to have work done on weekends if necessary. 

The cost of a chimney sweep or inspection is insignificant compared to the potential devastation that a chimney fire or carbon monoxide poisoning can cause. There is no doubt that the increase in proper chimney maintenance has saved many lives and billions in property damage. 

The National Fire Protection Association Standard 211 says, “Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances. Cleaning, maintenance, and repairs shall be done if necessary.” 

This is the national safety standard and should be followed when dealing with the problem. It takes into consideration the fact that there may be deterioration that could make the chimney unsafe to use, or even if you don’t use your chimney that much, animals may build nests in the flue and other circumstances that may cause a problem.

When burning wood inside a fireplace, it results in the formation of a black or brown residue that can be crusty, flaky, drippy, sticky, shiny, or hard. That is called creosote. Each of these different forms of creosote is highly flammable and combustible. That is why chimney inspection is necessary to maintain the safety of our homes.

Smelly chimneys can be caused by different problems such as:

– When the weather is humid and warm, the creosote odor gets stronger. Of course, chimney cleaning will resolve much of the smelly chimney problem, but not always completely. Odor neutralizing agents put into the fireplace can help, but many times a deodorizing agent needs to be spread into the chimney. 

– Sometimes ventilation fans can be installed to reduce these problems. The fact that you have these odors may also indicate that your venting system is drawing too much air down the chimney or that your damper may be defective. 

– There are also several structural defects that can show up as a smelly chimney, so as always, we advise a thorough inspection to determine the root cause.

Every chimney needs a liner of some kind that is designed to fit the needs of the fireplace, stove, or furnace that is venting through it. Chimneys had clay tiles that covered the inside of the chimney. These tiles were designed to seal the chimney structure and direct all the sparks, heat, gases, and particles up and out of the home. The problem is that over time, the tiles crack or break due to weathering, heat and freeze cycles, and other factors. Once the break-down begins, your chimney can become dangerous to use and can require a new lining. 

A chimney cap is important in keeping the chimney safe. A chimney cap prevents animals like raccoons, squirrels, birds and bats, and other critters that may think your chimney looks like a good place to make their home, potentially spreading disease and wreaking havoc. Our strong mesh and caps will keep even the most determined critters out!

There are plenty of reasons why water leaks around the fireplace:

– Excess condensation caused by improper operating flue systems adds water to your chimney

– Water can seep in many places, cracking and corroding joints, mortar, and brick.

– Cracks can let water in, un-capped chimneys invite water damage, and defective flashing can allow roof leaks.

At the first sign of water, schedule an inspection! You will end up saving money and put an end to any potentially unsafe conditions. Many times if the problem is caught early – the cost to repair is much less than a future cost to replace. 

A typical chimney cleaning alone should be able to be finished in an hour, but it may vary depending on the problem encountered and the necessary actions that are needed in addressing these problems.