Chimney Inspections

When should the chimney be inspected?

All chimneys should be inspected annually and cleaned by a certified chimney sweep when a buildup is noted. Burning wood creates CREOSOTE, a flammable substance that collects on the walls of the chimney, potentially providing fuel for a chimney fire. Certified chimney inspections are an important step in keeping your home and loved ones safe.

Sweeping the chimney removes this buildup. Gas and oil furnaces produce a type of soot that, while less flammable than creosote, is often acidic and can lead to chimney damage. This can lead to blockage of the chimney flue causing dangerous fumes, such as carbon monoxide, to back up into your home. It's also very important to have the chimney inspected for birds nests, leaves and other debris that could possibly create a blockage or draft problem.

What events should trigger a chimney inspection?

Any time you notice visible soot anywhere in your home, this is a warning that the chimney is not operating properly. Discontinue use of the appliance that vents until the chimney can be inspected and the problem solved. Soot is carbon; visible carbon stains indicate that carbon monoxide has also been present.

All chimneys should also be inspected:

• Before each heating season
• Before installation of a new fuel burning appliance (wood stove, gas logs, new furnace or water heater)
• Before purchase of a new house
• Immediately after a chimney fire or house fire
• If your home has been struck by lightening
• If your chimney has been hit by a falling tree, or other events that may have caused impact damage
• If you notice water stains on the inside or outside of your home in the vicinity of the chimney
• If the roof has been replaced

An unlined chimney, such as this one, presents a dangerous safety hazard. A certified chimney inspection can detect unlined flues, construction and design defects and more. Learn more about the various levels of chimney inspections and the latest chimney sweep technology used to identify problems.

All of our chimney inspectors are certified by the Chimney Sweep Institute of America. Whether you need a fireplace inspection or an inspection for your furnace flue our chimney inspection service is thorough and complete using state of the art equipment.

We also offer expert chimney lining services throughout Chicago and surrounding areas.

We are proud to provide chimney inspections for the following communities and their surrounding areas.