As a fireplace owner, you’re probably aware of the importance of regular chimney cleaning. But what about chimney inspections? They’re just for new homebuyers, right? The truth is that regular chimney inspections are important for every homeowner with a working fireplace and chimney, and here are the reasons why.
Fire Protection
The number one reason you should get an annual chimney inspection is to guard against a chimney fire. Over time, creosote builds in the chimney and is highly flammable. The problem is that the creosote often ignites and burns slowly, and the homeowner is unaware there’s a problem. These fires cause structural damage that could lead to an explosive fire that puts your entire house at risk down the road.
Regular chimney inspections by a trained professional help identify evidence of these minor fires, so you can fix the damage before it’s too late.
Ensure Proper Airflow and Ventilation
A bloke or partially blocked chimney can cause smoke and toxic gases, like carbon monoxide, to flow back into the house. Carbon monoxide is known as the silent killer because it’s colorless and odorless, and people frequently don’t know there’s anything wrong until it’s too late.
Your professional chimney inspector looks for blockages, like animal nests, fallen bricks, and debris that could impede airflow, and removes them to ensure adequate ventilation.
In addition to venting toxic gases, a blocked chimney can make your fire less efficient. A healthy fire depends on a good draft, drawing in oxygen to burn efficiently, which can’t happen when the chimney is blocked.
Identifying Structural Issues
Because your chimney is exposed to the elements 24/7/365, it’s more susceptible to wear and tear than other parts of your home. Water, freezing temperatures, seismic activity, and shifting soil can cause cracks, leaning, and erosion that could lead to a chimney collapse. Annual chimney inspections can identify minor issues, allowing you to fix them before they become expensive repairs or rebuilds.
Protect Your Investment
Your home is likely your most significant investment, so it’s essential to keep it well-maintained by making minor repairs as needed, including your chimney. A well-maintained chimney ensures that your fireplace runs safely and efficiently, contributing to your home’s overall value. If you ever decide to sell, a functional fireplace in good condition is still valuable to many potential homebuyers.
While it’s easy to take the chimney for granted, as you can see, overlooking or ignoring routine maintenance and inspection can have significant or life-altering consequences. Whether it’s a risk of fire, exposure to toxic gases, structural damage, or reduced efficiency, the problems of a neglected chimney are numerous.
To ensure your fireplace and chimney are safe and for peace of mind, schedule an annual chimney inspection by a certified professional.
Call the Best Chimney Service in the Kansas City Metro Area
Fluesbrothers is the most trusted chimney and fireplace contractor in Kansas City, proudly serving homeowners for over a decade.
You can rely on our certified professionals for chimney inspection, cleaning, maintenance, repairs, rebuilding, and more.
Call us today to book an appointment at 913–236–7141 or contact us online.
