What should you do before you light the first fire of the year? Make sure there are no hidden problems that could lead to dangerous safety hazards or expensive repairs! You may be able to see signs of exterior damage. This includes missing bricks and mortar joints. However, there could be damage on the interior of your chimney that you are unable to see. How do keep your chimney from being at a high risk for chimney fires or carbon monoxide leaks this winter? Have a Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified chimney sweep take a close look at the condition of your chimney.
For over 25 years, All Seasons Chimney has been making sure the fireplaces and chimneys in the Hudson Valley. We are proud to provide all three levels of professional chimney inspection services, as well as other chimney maintenance tasks. All Seasons is often asked about the differences between these three levels that were established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). We would like to take this opportunity to tell you more about them to help you understand these levels of chimney inspections.
LEVEL ONE
When you schedule your annual chimney sweeping appointment with All Seasons Chimney, a Level 1 chimney inspection is included. The most basic of inspections, this level includes a visual check of the inside and outside of your chimney. We will make sure there are no flue blockages or liner damage. These could lead to carbon monoxide leaks! In addition, we will inspect all the components that we can easily access without special equipment.
LEVEL TWO
Are you buying or selling a home with a chimney? If so, you will need a Level 2 inspection. A video scan of the interior of the entire chimney is included, which provides valuable evidence if any problems are found. In this level of inspection, we look at everything we would check out in a Level 1, as well as the accessible portions of other areas of the chimney. These include attics, crawlspaces, and basements. A Level 2 inspection is also needed when you make changes to your fireplace. Also, if your chimney has experienced a malfunction or external event like a chimney fire, earthquake, or lightning strike.
LEVEL THREE
The most thorough of the levels of chimney inspection is a Level 3 inspection. This will only be recommended by All Seasons Chimney if we suspect a serious problem. For example, one that requires the removal of components to be able to correct the issue. These components include the chimney crown and the interior chimney wall. If we feel a Level 3 inspection is necessary, we will give you both a written report and photo evidence to explain why we need to take a closer look.
Make sure your chimney will work safely and efficiently this winter. Contact us today at All Seasons Chimney to schedule your annual professional chimney inspection. You can trust our CSIA-certified technicians to give your chimney the appropriate level of inspection.