Chimney Inspections
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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 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has addressed the minimum chimney inspection standards in its latest 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 - If your appliance or your venting system has not changed and you plan to use your system as you have in the past, then a Level 1 inspection is a minimum requirement. A Level 1 inspection is recommended for a chimney under continued service, under the same conditions, and with the continued use of the same appliance. In a Level 1 inspection, your chimney service technician should examine the readily accessible** portions of the chimney exterior, interior and accessible* portions of the appliance and the chimney connection. Your technician will be looking for the basic soundness of the chimney structure and flue as well as the basic appliance installation and connections. The technician will also verify the chimney is free of obstruction and combustible deposits. Level 2 Inspections –A Level 2 inspection is required when any changes are made to the system. Changes can include a change in the fuel type, changes to the shape of, or material in, the flue (i.e. relining), or the replacement or addition of an appliance of a dissimilar type, input rating or efficiency. Additionally, a Level 2 inspection is required upon the sale or transfer of a property or after an operation malfunction or external event that is likely to have caused damage to the chimney. Building fires, chimney fires, seismic events as well as weather events are all indicators that this level of inspection is warranted. A Level 2 inspection is a more in-depth inspection than a Level 1 inspection.– When a Level 1 or Level 2 inspection suggests a hidden hazard and the evaluation cannot be performed without special tools to access concealed areas of the chimney or flue, a Level 3 inspection is recommended. A Level 3 inspection addresses the proper construction and the condition of concealed portions of the chimney structure and the flue. Removal or destruction, as necessary, of permanently attached portions of the chimney or building structure will be required for the completion of a Level 3 inspection. A Level 2 inspection includes everything in a Level 1 inspection, plus the accessible portions of the chimney exterior and interior including attics, crawl spaces and basements. It will address proper clearances from combustibles in accessible locations. There are no specialty tools (i.e. demolition equipment) required to open doors, panels or coverings in performing a Level 2 inspection. A Level 2 inspection shall also include a visual inspection by video scanning or other means in order to examine the internal surfaces and joints of all flue liners incorporated within the chimney. No removal or destruction of permanently attached portions of the chimney or building structure or finish shall be required by a Level 2 inspection. Level 3 Inspections |
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Chimney cleaning
A Chimney Sweep specializes in fireplace cleaning and inspections. Our certified chimney sweeps performs various levels of chimney inspections. We begin by a full inspection from the top of the fireplace where we inspect the chimney cap, chimney crown, flashing, brickwork and we even check for loose roof shingles. At this point, our technicians begin the cleaning process if this is required. After the chimney and fireplace cleaning process, our technician will inspect the inside of the chimney and fireplace. This is a full inspection of the smoke chamber, damper, firebox, lintel, hearth, and the ash dump door.
Dryer Vent Cleaning
In the years from 1991 to 1995, dryer vent fires increased to 15,800, up over 15 percent, resulting in at least 10 deaths and 310 injuries annually. Most dryer vent fires start with a buildup of lint, which blocks the flow of air and ignites when it becomes too hot. Most often, poor venting causes the problem. As most people prefer to keep their dryer pushed as close to the wall as possible, this leaves little room for the pipe to come out and turn. Most people crush that pipe, which creates a trap for lint to collect, in an effort to get the dryer closer to the wall. Also, dryer venting tends to sag, if it is not guided through the rafters with rigid ducting. The curves will stop the lint from blowing out. Lint becomes trapped in the ribs of ducting, creating pockets of potentially flammable debris. The easiest solution: clean your dryer vents regularly or have them professionally cleaned. Make sure that your dryer is operating properly. Each time that you begin a new load of clothes you should make sure that the filter has been cleaned; also, check the outside exhaust to see that air is escaping normally. A Chimney Sweep can handle all your dryer vent cleaning needs.
Gutter Cleaning
A Chimney Sweep are continuously on roofs and we can't help but notice overflowing gutters. When gutters overflow, water not only overflows away from the house, but overflows behind the soffit boards which causes moisture damage and produces mold. This mold eventually works it's way inside the attic and throughout the house by way of air ventilation ducts. Many wifes assign this task to their hubby. While these brave men might be great dentists, lawyers, salesmen, or auto mechanics. They might not be the best roof climbers. These accidents can be prevented by simply hiring a person who has the proper experience to effectively clean these gutters. Roofs are dangerous and this task should be left to a professional.
Chimney repair
A Chimney Sweep has many chimney technicians who have seen and repaired nearly every imaginable chimney problems that you could encounter. Whether it is leaking chase covers to complete chimney rebuilt with historic preservation, A Chimney Sweep can solve your chimney repair needs. All our chimney repairs come with a two year labor warranty and most of our repair products come with ten year or lifetime manufacturer warranty. If you want your chimney repair performed correctly, then you have come to the right place.
Stainless Steel Chimney Liner installation
A Chimney Sweep installs stainless steel chimney liners. Many masonry chimney have a Terra cot ta flue tile liner. These liners are very effective as a heat insulator if they experience a chimney fire, but are also very brittle and usually crack when they are exposed to thermal shock. NFPA 211 (national fire codes) basically state that these liners should be repaired or replaced when they crack. A very good way to correct these problems is to install stainless steel chimney liners. Many of these liners have lifetime warranties and can effectively handle the thermal stress of chimney fires. Most homeowner insurance policy coverage includes chimney fire damage. Apparently the insurance companies understand that the cost of a chimney liner is better than the cost of a entire house. Call A Chimney Sweep for you stainless steel chimney liner needs.
Air Duct Cleaning:
We offer great deals in air duct cleaning. Our air duct cleaning services help you maintain the in door air quality of your home. You can breathe easier thanks to our professionally trained air duct cleaners.
Duct cleaning generally refers to the cleaning of various heating and cooling system components of forced air systems, including the supply and return air ducts and registers.
ALL air ducts, old and new alike, can be contaminated with harmful debris, viruses, mold, pollen, pet dander, fiberglass, and other allergens and particulate.
New homes air ducts, though they may not have had the time to build up layers of mold and much visible debris, are usually contaminated with building materials such as sheet rock dust, sawdust, and, many times, nails and other leftover matter. Viruses are unique in the fact that they need a carrier to infect. They use these visible and microscopic particulate to ride on as they float in the air - where you breathe them in!
Older homes (5+ years) have even bigger problems. Dirt and debris, many times mold and viruses, have been building up for many years, unknown to residents. Since the awareness of harmful contaminates is relatively new to consumers attention, most homes have NEVER been cleaned.
