Insights
December 7, 2023

5 Reasons to Have Your Chimney Inspected by a Professional

Minimize the Risk of a Fire
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), chimneys are the second most-common cause of home fire fatalities. When a fireplace is used, by-products from the fire move into the cooler chimney where they condense and form a coating called creosote. Creosote is a highly flammable substance that can catch fire if the layer on the chimney walls is thick enough. The fire can cause damage not only to the chimney, but the surrounding structure of the roof and house. Excessive creosote needs to be removed before it causes damage to the damper or chimney.

Unseen Damage Cannot Be Detected Easily
Many parts of a chimney are too high to be inspected by homeowners. However, a professional can assess the entire chimney for signs of wear and tear or damage.

Crown: The crown is the downward sloping overhang at the top of the chimney that pulls water away from the chimney to prevent erosion. If it is damaged due to weather exposure, water can erode the chimney which can cause structural damage or weakening over time. Water may also get inside the flue. The crown can be repaired or replaced to prevent water damage to the chimney and flue.

Flue: When cracks form in the flue due to excessive heat or wear and tear, the chimney can catch fire or smoke can travel through the cracks and enter the home. In fact, damage to the flue lining, which is the material used to prevent heat from becoming trapped in the chimney, is a major factor in house fires.

Masonry: A chimney’s masonry does break down over time due to age and weathering. If the chimney is made from brick or stone, the material can expand and contract with the weather, forming cracks which can affect the chimney’s structure. This in turn can affect the integrity of the roof as the weight of the chimney can collapse other areas of the roof and damage the shingles or tiles.

Prevents Water Damage
Water can do extensive damage to the structure of a roof and home. When it enters through the chimney, water can erode the area causing it to crack or break off. A compromised chimney can eat into the roof material surrounding the chimney quickly, causing it to rot. The metal flashing that has been applied to the base of the chimney does deteriorate, which will allow water to seep into the roof system. The same is true once the mortar that holds the chimney together starts to decay due to weather---gaps that form can permit water to infiltrate into the roof.

Keeps Animals Out of the Home
A chimney inspection can also reveal if any parts of the chimney are missing. A damaged or missing chimney cap allows for the chimney mouth to remain exposed, which is an invitation for rodents, insects, and other wildlife to come inside, especially as it gets colder outside. Animals that are living in the chimney or attic can damage parts of the roofing and home.

Buying or Selling a Home
If you are buying or selling your home, a chimney inspection should be performed. A home inspection often includes a visual inspection of the chimney and fireplace but may not identify correct flashing, possible leaks, or exterior damage. If you have recently purchased a home, you may not know the last time the chimney was inspected, which means it could have creosote residue or have hidden damage. A professional can identify any chimney issues and address them before they damage the home further.

J.A.Y. Construction for Chimney Repair
While chimneys provide warmth and character to a home, they can also be a source of problems if not cared for properly. It is important to have your chimney inspected on a regular basis not only to prevent house fires, but to prevent damage to the structure of your home and roof. Inspections can identify problems with the chimney and also solutions on how to solve those issues. J.A.Y. Construction has the experience to remedy any problems with your chimney as well as any structural damage to your home or roof.

Subscribe to newsletter

Subscribe to receive the latest blog posts to your inbox every week.

By subscribing you agree to with our Privacy Policy.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.