Before using your fireplace or chimney, you must have it inspected by a professional. A Level 2 chimney inspection is recommended if you sell your home or transfer ownership of the property. If you’re buying a home recently, you may not have had your chimney inspected before, and the chimney could be caked in creosote or debris and have hidden damage. Getting a chimney inspection can prevent chimney fires and identify any existing vulnerabilities. While buying a new house, you’ll also be responsible for your home insurance coverage.
A level two chimney inspection is more detailed than a Level one inspection. It includes additional home areas, such as the attic, crawlspace, or fireplace area. The inspector may use video scanning or other techniques to examine the chimney’s internal structure and joints. It doesn’t involve dismantling the chimney or any part of it permanently attached to it. However, for safety reasons, it is still necessary to get a Level 2 inspection from https://chimneysweepcharleston.com/.
A Level two inspection should be performed when a Level One chimney inspection has revealed a hidden hazard. These inspectors will use camera equipment to view parts of the chimney that are difficult to inspect with a traditional tool. They will also check the chimney’s clearances from combustibles. Typically, a level two inspection is required if the chimney has undergone any changes, such as changing fuels, shape, or material.
When you have a level I inspection, the inspector will check all parts of the chimney that are easily accessible. This includes the exterior and interior of the chimney and any appliances. The technician will look for damage or deterioration and check whether all components of the chimney are connected. They will also check whether the chimney is clear of any combustible deposits or obstruction. Once the inspector has completed their inspection, the technician will then advise you on how to proceed.
During the inspection, the inspector will look for problems with the crown, which is the downward sloping overhang on the chimney. A cracked crown can cause erosion and compromise the structural integrity of the chimney over time. The rainwater can slip into the flue and deteriorate the liner. Cracked dampers should be repaired or replaced, as they can prevent adequate ventilation. If you’re concerned about a cracked crown, ask your inspector to replace it.
Getting a chimney inspection performed is a vital safety precaution. The inspector can check all parts of the chimney, including any accessible components. If you’ve recently installed a wood-burning stove or fireplace, you’ll want to have a chimney inspection performed annually. You’ll also want to make sure there haven’t been any major changes to the type of fuel used in your fireplace or wood-burning stove. If your chimney has been inactive for several years, a Level 2 inspection is recommended.
A Level 3 chimney inspection includes items from the Level 1 and Level 2 inspections. If there is a serious hazard hidden within the chimney, a Level 3 inspection should be performed. A Level 3 inspection is recommended when you can’t access areas that a level 2 inspection can reach. A Level 3 inspection may also involve the removal of certain parts of the chimney, such as the insulation. In some cases, the inspector may recommend a level 3 inspection if the condition of the chimney is not as good as it is on the surface.
You should also look for a certified inspector who has years of experience in the chimney inspection industry. Ideally, your chimney inspector will provide a detailed written report describing his findings. A report should include pictures and details of the problems he or she spotted. A good inspector will also explain how they discovered those problems in a detailed report, which will help you understand more about your fireplace and chimney. There are many reasons why a certified chimney inspector is important, so don’t settle for a cheaper inspector just because you can’t afford to hire one.
A Level 2 chimney inspection will cost between $100 and $500, but can be extremely helpful after a natural disaster, extreme weather event, or significant fireplace change. The Level 2 chimney inspection includes everything in a Level 1 inspection, but will also include a roof, attic, and crawl space inspection. Some chimney specialists also use video scanning and special tools to perform a level 3 inspection. Your inspector will also be able to suggest repairs based on the findings.