Proudly Serving the Chimney & Fireplace Needs of Charleston, SC

Why Do I Need a Chimney Inspection?

There isn’t anything quite as relaxing as settling in next to a cozy fire after a long day. Using your fireplace may seem simple, but chimneys are complex structures, and even a small issue can impact how your fireplace functions. A chimney inspection is a way for you to monitor your chimney system and stay ahead of potential problems that can interrupt those evening plans.

What are common problems found during a chimney inspection?

Chimney inspections may uncover several issues that can compromise your fireplace’s safety and efficiency. Here are some common problems we come across during chimney inspections:

• Creosote buildup. Creosote is a natural byproduct of burning firewood. It’s highly flammable and will build up in your chimney over time if it’s not properly removed by a certified chimney technician. Creosote can’t be prevented if you have a wood-burning fireplace, but it is possible to keep its levels in check with regular chimney sweepings.
• Water damage. Water is a leading cause of chimney problems. Your chimney system has a lot of components and water can damage each of those parts, including the masonry. If you suspect that you have a chimney leak, don’t wait – schedule an appointment for a chimney inspection.
• Evidence of pests. Chimneys are a favorite nesting spot for wildlife like raccoons, birds, and squirrels. When animals move into a chimney, they usually make their presence known with foul odors, odd noises, or actual sightings. But some critters are sneaky and can steer clear of detection for longer periods. A chimney inspection will reveal if you have any unwanted tenants that need to be evicted.
• Blockages. Animals and creosote aren’t the only things that can clog up your chimney… Twigs, leaves, insulation, and collapsing interior bricks can block the chimney and prevent proper airflow and ventilation.
• A missing or damaged cap. A chimney cap sits at the opening of the chimney and it’s your first line of defense against water intrusion, animals, and debris. The cap can take on a lot of damage because it’s exposed to the elements, and a severe storm with high winds can blow the cap off completely. You may not be aware of an issue with the cap unless you spend a lot of time on your roof, so a chimney inspection is crucial to ensuring that it’s intact.
• A cracked crown. The crown is a concrete slab near the top of the chimney that diverts rain away from the exterior of the chimney. Like the cap, its exposure to weather can lead to cracks and damage. Water is opportunistic and it only needs a small opening to get into your chimney.

How Often Should I Have My Chimney Inspected and Cleaned?

We recommend that homeowners schedule an appointment to have their chimneys inspected and cleaned at least once a year. Don’t just take our word, follow the guidelines provided by the industry experts at the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). By investing in annual chimney inspections and sweepings, you can identify areas of concern earlier when chimney repairs are easier and more budget-friendly.

I don’t use my fireplace often, do I still need an inspection every year?

Your dentist probably advises you to come in for a checkup and tooth cleaning once or twice a year. You wouldn’t skip one of those appointments just because you didn’t smile as much, right? You can still get a cavity…and a filling is much more of a pain to deal with than a cleaning – and more expensive. 

Think of your chimney in the same light. A problem can still pop up even if you don’t use your fireplace that often. For instance, an idle chimney may be a bigger attraction for wildlife because there’s no threat of fire or excessive heat. You may also miss some of the more common clues of chimney damage when you’re not using your fireplace. It’s always best to play it safe and keep up with annual inspections. After you establish a baseline with your chimney technician, you can discuss the possibility of reducing inspections.

Can I Clean My Chimney Myself?

Cleaning a chimney is a dirty job – and we mean that literally. Soot and creosote can cause a mess and they’re hazardous if they’re not cleared from the chimney properly. In addition to the risk of inhaling harmful toxins, there are other safety risks that you should consider before attempting to clean your chimney yourself – things like potentially increasing the risk of fires, the damage that can be done if things aren’t done correctly, and the potential to miss other threats.

Our CSIA-certified chimney technicians are equipped with the right protective gear and they have received years of training to carefully navigate your chimney system. Don’t put your health and safety at risk and trust the professionals at Ashbusters Charleston to get the job done.

Contact Us Today

Questions for us? We’re here to answer. Please feel free to contact us and give us a chance to earn your business. Whether you choose to use us or not, please don’t put off having a professional inspect and clean your chimney. You life and the lives of those you love are depending on it.

Call us today! Dial 843-548-3615 or reach out online now.

Customers in all our service locations, like the friendly folks in Mount Pleasant, love getting all our professional chimney services throughout every year.