Soot Master Chimney Sweep

WHY ANNUAL CHIMNEY INSPECTIONS ARE IMPORTANT

An annual chimney inspection is important to ensure the safe operation of your chimney and wood burning device. A dirty chimney is not only a safety hazard but can also negatively affect the performance of your fireplace, stove or insert. Each time you burn wood, creosote and other byproducts deposit residue inside of your chimney. Over time, this buildup of residue can begin to restrict the flue opening causing multiple issues from draft problems to unpleasant smells and even a chimney fire. The National Fire Protection Association recommends a professional chimney sweep clean your chimney flue after each burning season. Routine sweeping and maintenance can help ensure safe and problem free burning year after year.

LEVEL 1, 2 & 3 CHIMNEY INSPECTION

The 2019 edition of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA-211) standard for chimneys, fireplaces, vents and solid fuel burning appliances identifies three levels of chimney inspection and when each level of inspection should be performed.

Level 1

A level 1 chimney inspection is conducted during routine chimney sweeping and service, and is the most common type of chimney inspection. With a level 1 inspection, we will visually inspect the readily accessible portions of your chimney to make sure that the basic structure is intact and serviceable, and that there are no visible signs of damage.

Level 2

A level 2 inspection is necessary if you are making any changes in the way you
use your chimney, such as changing the type of fuel used, relining the flue, or if
you’ve had any external events that may have caused damage (i.e. a structural
fire, chimney fire or an earthquake). A level 2 chimney inspection is also required upon sale or transfer of the property. A level 2 inspection includes everything in a level 1 inspection, plus additional work including examination of the attic, crawlspace and other accessible areas. A special video camera is used to examine the condition of the flue and check for cracks or damage to the joints in the chimney’s structure.

Level 3

A level 3 chimney inspection is the most comprehensive type of chimney
inspection, and is performed when serious damage to the chimney is suspected.
In addition to all of the checks preformed in level 1 and level 2 inspections, a level
3 will also examine the concealed areas of the chimney. This may include the
removal of certain parts of the building or chimney structure, if necessary. For
example, the chimney crown or parts of the interior chimney wall may have to be
removed in order to perform the in-depth inspection required for a level 3.

Dryer Vent Cleaning

Have you ever thought about your dryer vent? Most people don't know their dryer vent needs to be cleaned. They clean the lint trap occasionally, but the dryer duct is where the lint builds up and clogs up the system. Lint is extremely flammable - there are more than 16,800 dryer vent fires a year in the U.S.! A clogged dryer vent can ruin your dryer. A dryer vent clogged with lint reduces the efficiency of the dryer, uses more energy, and costs you more money. We will clean and inspect your dryer vent system with specially designed tools. Don't take a chance with your dryer. We can protect your home from a potential fire, and save you money on your dryer's operating expense.

THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING A CHIMNEY CAP

Here on the Central Cost, we often find chimney caps deteriorated from rust, heat and the marine environment. Rain and wind drafts can cause extensive damage to the integrity of your chimney. A chimney cap can prevent expensive rain-related repairs and increase the overall lifespan of your fireplace. Water intrusion can damage mortar joints, brickwork, and rust critical metal components of your heating system. Squirrels, birds, and raccoons can seek refuge in your chimney if you don’t have a chimney cap. A properly sized and designed chimney cap should also have a spark arrestor screen to prevent hot embers from landing on your roof or landscaping. We can inspect, repair, and replace your chimney cap to keep your system safe.

CHIMNEY CROWN REPAIR

The cement crown of your chimney is the first barrier to water penetration and acts as the roof of your fireplace. This solid mortar top acts as a protective barrier for the interior masonry and the exterior brickwork of your chimney. Once your chimney crown begins to crack and deteriorate, the rest of your exterior brickwork becomes vulnerable to water-related decay. We apply a long lasting, specially designed flexible masonry coating to seal cracks and holes to ensure that no water penetrates the crown of your chimney. An annual chimney inspection is the best way to ensure that your chimney crown remains in good shape.

BEFORE AND AFTER

Why Waterproof Your Chimney?

All masonry chimneys are susceptible to water damage. A masonry chimney is constructed of a variety of masonry and metal materials, including brick, mortar, concrete, clay flue tile and steel. These components are adversely affected by direct contact with water or water penetration. Water penetration can cause interior and exterior damage to your home and masonry chimney including:
- Rusted damper
- Deteriorated metal or masonry firebox
- Stained chimney exterior
- Deteriorated exterior mortar
- Deteriorated flue lining system
- Compromised structural stability and integrity
- Water stained walls or ceilings
- Mold
- Disagreeable odor that can permeate a home
Waterproofing is an important preventive measure that prevents expensive repairs. We apply water-based Chimney Saver, the first water repellant specifically developed to protect chimneys from water infiltration. It comes with a 10 year warranty. Chimney Saver is a water repellant, not a water sealer. One application of Chimney Saver provides up to 10 times the water repellant protection of typical products like Thompson's water sealer. It offers superior protection because it releases water vapors and effectively reduces water absorption. Because it is water based, it does not harm plants or landscaping.