Northeastern Masonry & Chimney Is Albany’s Choice for Certified & Reliable Annual Chimney Inspections
Northeastern Masonry & Chimney’s Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)-certified sweeps specialize in fireplace cleaning and inspections. During our thorough inspections, we take a close look from the top of the chimney – where we inspect the chimney cap, chimney crown, flashing, and brickwork – all the way down the inside of the chimney to the fireplace including the smoke chamber, damper, firebox, lintel, hearth, and ash dump door.
Based on our findings during this inspection, our crew will determine if a cleaning is needed. If so, they will then use a stiff wire brush and a strong vacuum system that cleans thoroughly and leaves no mess for you, the homeowner. Schedule your next chimney inspection with our team by clicking here or calling 518-767-9315.
Why Do I Need To Schedule an Inspection Annually?
There are a variety of reasons to schedule a professional inspection every year. According to CSIA, virtually all chimney and fireplace fires are preventable. Chimney inspections help alert you to any hazards or damages within the system before they cause harm to your home or family. Inspections can also let you know if it’s time to schedule a cleaning. Both the CSIA and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommend yearly chimney inspections to help prevent these hazards.
Not all inspections are conducted thoroughly, but with a Northeastern Masonry & Chimney technician, you can be confident in the condition of your system. We provide expert chimney inspections and even conduct video scans and real estate inspections. Our CSIA-certified sweeps have earned the industry’s most respected credential by passing an intensive examination based on fire codes, clearances, and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimneys and venting systems.
Are There Different Types of Chimney Inspections?
Until recently, the scope of work performed in the inspection or evaluation of a fireplace, stove or other venting system was generally up to the discretion of the chimney service technician. Professional service technicians now have an industry standard that removes much of that “discretion.” The NFPA has addressed the minimum chimney inspection standards in a publication (NFPA 211) concerning home heating appliances.
Inspections are now classified as Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3. Each level of inspection covers specific items depending on the individual appliance and venting system. Below is an explanation of the three levels of inspections and what services your chimney service technician should provide for each level.
- Level 1 Inspections. Level 1 inspections are typically conducted when no changes have been made to the system and the homeowner plans to continue using the system as it was used in the past. These inspections include a look at all accessible portions of the venting system, the appliance, and connections. During these visual inspections, the technician will also check to see if the flue is blocked or if there is significant buildup affecting air flow or creating a fire hazard.
- Level 2 Inspections. Level 2 inspections are typically conducted when changes are made to a system when a flue is being relined, when the property is changing hands, or when a system may have incurred damage. These inspections are a bit more intensive and involved than level 1 inspections. During a level 2 inspection, the technician will inspect all of the portions explored during a level 1 inspection, but will also inspect all accessible attics, basements, and crawl spaces. We will check all accessible portions of the chimney’s interior and exterior and evaluate whether or not the flue liner is appropriately sized and constructed for the appliance. Additionally, we’ll check for proper clearance from combustibles and proper chimney condition and construction. Level 2 inspections also typically include a video scan, which allows for a detailed look at the interior of the flue.
- Level 3 Inspections. Level 3 inspections are incredibly involved and are typically only conducted when the hazard or problem cannot be identified or properly evaluated with a level 1 or level 2 inspection. These inspections may involve the removal of parts of the chimney or home in order to get to suspicious, otherwise concealed areas.
How Frequently Should I Schedule Inspections?
The NFPA states that all chimneys, fireplaces, and vents should be inspected every year. Additional inspections should be scheduled if:
- the chimney has experienced any sort of sudden occurrence, such as a chimney fire or earthquake
- if the property is changing hands
- if changes or repairs are made or being made to the system
If you’d like to schedule an inspection with one of our certified and knowledgeable technicians, give us a call at 518-255-7273, or use our convenient online scheduling form.
Can I Inspect My Own Chimney?
While it might be tempting to inspect your own chimney, it’s not recommended. Chimney inspections require specialized knowledge and tools that most homeowners simply don’t have. A quick look up the chimney won’t reveal the hidden dangers lurking inside, such as creosote buildup, cracks in the flue, or blockages caused by animal nests or debris. These issues can lead to serious safety hazards, including chimney fires or carbon monoxide poisoning, if not caught and addressed properly.
Professional chimney technicians, like those at Northeastern Masonry & Chimney, are trained and certified to spot problems that might be missed during a DIY inspection. Our CSIA-certified experts use advanced tools, such as video cameras, to thoroughly examine every inch of your chimney, from top to bottom. This ensures we catch even the smallest cracks or hidden creosote deposits that could turn into major issues later on. Plus, our team knows exactly what to look for and can assess the overall condition of your chimney, giving you peace of mind that everything is functioning as it should.
Hiring a professional for your chimney inspection not only ensures your safety but also helps you avoid costly repairs down the road. With Northeastern Masonry & Chimney, you’ll receive a detailed inspection, and if any issues are found, we can provide expert guidance on the next steps. When it comes to the safety of your home and family, it’s always best to trust a professional.
Take a Closer Look With Video Scans
Our CSIA-certified technicians are equipped with state-of-the-art video cameras, allowing us to thoroughly inspect the entire interior of your chimney system and appliances with precision and care. As the camera moves through the flue, we can view real-time footage on a TV monitor, which provides a clear and detailed look at every inch of the chimney. This technology allows us to identify any blockages, cracks, deterioration, or buildup that may not be visible during a standard inspection. It also enables us to spend extra time on any problem areas, ensuring that nothing is overlooked and that we can provide the most accurate recommendations for repairs or maintenance.
Video scans are typically conducted when a chimney system is showing signs of trouble, such as poor drafting, smoke issues, or water leaks, or after the system has experienced some form of damage – whether from a chimney fire, lightning strike, or severe weather conditions. These situations can sometimes result in hidden internal damage, and video scans give us a way to assess the full extent of any issues without invasive techniques. The detailed visual data we gather from these scans also helps us create an effective action plan for repairs or sweeping, ensuring your system remains safe and functional.
At Northeastern Masonry & Chimney, we go beyond just using this technology when problems arise. We also include video scans as part of our comprehensive level 2 and level 3 inspections.
Be Sure To Keep up With Your Yearly Chimney Inspections
Chimney maintenance shouldn’t fall to the bottom of your to-do list. Annual chimney inspections are essential to keeping your home safe, your fireplace running efficiently, and costly repairs at bay. At Northeastern Masonry & Chimney, our CSIA-certified technicians are here to provide thorough, professional inspections that give you peace of mind all year long. Whether it’s your annual checkup or you suspect there’s an issue, we’re ready to help. Contact us today at 518-255-7273 or get in touch with us online to schedule your inspection and ensure your chimney is in top shape for the burning season.
Don’t forget to book your next routine chimney sweeping! Annual chimney services can save you time and money by helping you avoid repairs.