I Don't Use My Fireplace Much How Often Should I Have It Inspected

Having been a chimney professional for close to 40 years, I know now why the standards say a chimney should be inspected annually regardless of use. 

A lot can happen to a fireplace or chimney whether it is used or not.

In this blog I will discuss many things that we have found during inspections of customers that have nothing to do with the buildup from burning fires.

Have you ever been driving down the road and seen a Walmart bag floating through the air? I wonder if this bag could land on top of your chimney?

Have you ever known anyone that lightning has hit their home or a tree near their home? Do you always stay at your house? I wonder if it's possible for it to hit your chimney?

Have you ever been under a tornado watch or a severe thunderstorm watch? I wonder if that wind could have picked up your chimney system  and separated the pipe?

Have you ever seen a squirrel in your yard? I wonder if that squirrel ever got on your house and sharpened its teeth on your chimney flashing?

Have you ever known anyone that took the low bid on roof repairs? I wonder if they did the flashing properly?

Have your kids or grandkids ever hid something in your house? I wonder if they were curious enough to throw something behind your gas logs or behind your damper?

Have you or anyone you known ever had a mouse in their home. I wonder if that mouse could make a house behind louvers on your prefabricated fireplace.

Have you ever seen a hornet nest or a wasp nest on near your house? I wonder if they might like it under your chimney cap?

Have you ever had visitors or family members at your home when you were not present? Do you think it is possible that they could have shut your damper (some folks call it the flute)? Do you think that might cause carbon monoxide if you have vented logs or smoke to spill if you burn wood?

Our certified technicians at Top Hat Chimney sweeps see many of these things on a monthly basis. And just because you burn oak or hickory does not mean you are not building up creosote. All firewood contains creosote. It doesn't just have to be pine. And that deposit is very flammable!

These are many reasons why National Fire Protection Association 211 (standards on fireplaces, chimneys and vents) states that a chimney shall be inspected on an annual basis. "Shall"  does not mean "Should".

It takes very little creosote to have a chimney fire. Studies have found that only an 8-inch of creosote buildup can be a potential chimney fire hazard.

If you have a gas fireplace. It should also be inspected annually. Carbon monoxide is known as the "silent killer" . Any gas appliance in any fireplace can produce and spill carbon monoxide if it is not serviced. 

Don't procrastinate! Call us at 334-749-3559 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.