Time for Your Annual Chimney Inspection? Homeowners in Winston-Salem Can Trust Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service
Winston-Salem is one of the largest cities in North Carolina, but it still maintains its southern charm. With a rich history blending seamlessly with modern innovations, the city is known for its vibrant art scene, up-and-coming culinary community, and beautiful natural landscape. If you’re a history buff interested in learning about our local roots, an art enthusiast drawn to our renowned museums, or an adventurer ready to hike through lush trails, Winston-Salem has something for everyone.
Winston-Salem residents have endless opportunities to explore a variety of activities, with no limit as to what they can discover and enjoy. Take a day to revisit the past by going on a tour through a recreation of an 18th-century Moravian settlement at Old Salem Museums & Gardens. If your artistic tastes are more contemporary, check out the local artists that are on display at the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art (SECCA).
In the mood for something outdoorsy? Unwind with a soothing boat ride or break out the tackle and bait to go fishing at Salem Lake. But if the weather report is predicting cooler temperatures or precipitation that will keep you cooped up in the house, you can bring the outside fun indoors. Gather the family, get out your favorite snacks, and tell campfire stories by the fireplace.
For almost two decades, Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service has kept our neighbors throughout Winston-Salem and nearby happy with our chimney and fireplace repair and installation services. Whether you need to schedule your annual chimney inspection or you need a chimney part replaced, we’re the go-to for all of your chimney needs. Call us today at 919-747-1859 or book an appointment online.
We’re Proud To Offer Chimney & Fireplaces Services to Homeowners in Winston-Salem
We understand how much of a headache it is to work with a company that can diagnose an issue, but you have to find a different provider to complete the repair work. It’s important to the team at Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service that your experience with us is hassle-free. For your convenience, we offer a comprehensive list of chimney and fireplace services that include:
- Chimney & Fireplace Sweeping & Cleaning
- Chimney & Fireplace Inspections (including real estate chimney inspections)
- Chimney & Fireplace Repair
- Gas Fireplace Service & Repair
- Chimney Leaks
- Dryer Vent Cleaning
- Wildlife Removal
Why Do I Need a Chimney Inspection?
When you have a heating appliance inside your home, it requires regular maintenance to perform efficiently and safely. Fireplaces are no exception. Your chimney is a big, strong structure, but it doesn’t take a lot to throw it out of sorts. If one part of the chimney stops working correctly, it will affect the entire system, leaving you at a higher risk for a chimney fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
An inspection by a Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)-certified professional can identify potential issues like creosote buildup, blockages, flue damage, leaks, and deterioration of the masonry before they can snowball into more complex and expensive problems. Think of a chimney inspection as a preventive measure that protects your family, property, and budget.
How Often Should I Have My Chimney Inspected?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and CSIA recommend at least one chimney inspection per year. If you love fireside time as much as we do and use your fireplace often, you might need to add another inspection to that schedule to be on the safe side. You can also consider cutting back the frequency of inspections if you don’t use your fireplace very much. Either option should be discussed with your chimney technician before you make changes to your inspection schedule.
Have you scheduled your next chimney inspection? It’s never too early to get an appointment on the books. Call Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service at 919-747-1859 or set up an appointment on our website.
What Are the Different Levels of Chimney Inspections?
There are three main levels of chimney inspections and Mr. Smokestack Chimney Services offers all of them.
- Level 1. This is the simplest and most common type of chimney inspection. A level 1 inspection is a visual examination of the readily accessible parts of the chimney and is recommended for chimneys that are regularly used and have no known performance issues. There is no demolition or removal of chimney parts during a level 1 inspection.
- Level 2. This inspection is more in-depth than a level 1 inspection and is usually suggested after a change has been made to the chimney system (e.g. switching from wood to gas) or following a chimney fire. We may use special tools and camera equipment to see parts of the chimney. We may also need access to other areas of the home like the attic, basement, or crawlspace.
- Level 3. This is the most invasive type of chimney inspection. A level 3 inspection is needed when there is evidence of serious issues but a level 1 or level 2 inspection isn’t conclusive. During a level 3 inspection, we’ll likely have to remove parts of the chimney itself or surrounding walls, so it’s only recommended when absolutely necessary.
What Are the Signs I Need a Chimney Inspection?
If an issue pops up unexpectedly while you’re in between annual inspections, don’t try to hold out until your next appointment. A change in your fireplace’s performance and efficiency can be a warning sign that something is wrong with your chimney system.
If you notice any of the following, schedule a chimney inspection with us as soon as possible:
- Smoke is backing up into your home. A fully functioning chimney should completely exhaust smoke and other toxins out of your house. When smoke is trapped, it could be due to a blockage in the flue or a problem with the damper.
- There are signs of a leak. Water stains on the ceiling or walls near the chimney – as well as dampness or pooling water in the firebox – may indicate water leaks. Water damage can lead to deterioration and structural instability.
- The fireplace has an odor. Smells can tell us a lot about the condition of your fireplace. When you notice a new and unpleasant odor, there is a good chance that it is a red flag. A musty odor points to a moisture problem or mold growth. A more pungent, acidic aroma could be due to excessive creosote build. A bad smell could also be a sign that animals have taken up residence in your chimney.
- There is visible damage to the chimney. Chipping brick and missing mortar joints can allow water to get into your chimney system which will compromise the structural soundness of the chimney.
- It’s harder to start a fire or keep it going. Struggling to get a fire going? Are flames not burning as hot or clean? The most common culprits include chimney blockages and restricted airflow.
What Are the Most Common Chimney Problems Found During Inspections?
The ideal scenario is that we come out to your home for a chimney inspection and everything is in pristine shape. We’ll give you a thorough inspection report, get you set up for the following year, and be on our way. Unfortunately, that’s not always the outcome.
We’re no strangers to chimney inspections and have seen all sorts of things in our nearly 20 years. These are the most common issues we come across:
- Creosote buildup. This tar-like substance is naturally created by burning wood. It’s highly flammable and can increase the risk of chimney fires. The good news? It can be treated with a chimney sweeping – which you should also schedule annually.
- Chimney blockage. The aforementioned creosote buildup can contribute to chimney blockages. A stopped-up chimney can also be caused by outside debris like twigs and leaves or an abandoned animal nest.
- Water damage. Water is the biggest threat to your chimney. It can cause masonry deterioration, rusting to the metal parts of the chimney system, damage to the nearby areas, and much more.
- Lack of water protection. There are parts of your chimney and fireplace that you can always keep an eye on, but the chimney cap, crown, and flashing are the hardest to monitor because they’re all on the roof. Since they’re out of sight, you may not know that those components are damaged – or missing – until your chimney inspection.
- Masonry deterioration. Over time, bricks can crack, crumble, or even fall out completely. This can allow water to seep in and wreak more havoc.
– Alan G.
★★★★★
Ready To Schedule Your Chimney Inspection? Get in Touch With Us Today!
Keeping up with household maintenance can be a tall task for many homeowners. Get a headstart on your to-do list by scheduling your annual chimney inspection with Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service today. We’re here for you when you need us. Call us now at 919-747-1859 or schedule an appointment here.
We are proud to include the residents of Southern Pines as part of our service region , We’re always glad to provide our professional and reliable chimney services there.