The Importance of an Annual Chimney Inspection

An annual chimney inspection in Los Angeles is an important part of maintaining a home, but many homeowners tend to ignore their chimney much of the time. However, just like other elements of a house, a chimney needs inspections and routine maintenance in order to ensure that it is working properly. 
A few issues that an annual inspection can catch before they become big, expensive problems include:

Cracks in the Masonry

Fireplaces in older homes often have a brick chimney and a masonry firebox. Over time, heating and cooling the chimney can lead to cracks in the firebox and/or chipped or missing mortar in the flue lining.  Both of these can lead to a chimney fire that can easily spread to the rest of the house. An annual inspection can spot small firebox cracks, deterioration in the flue lining mortar and other issues early on.

Water Damage

Moisture is a chimney’s worst enemy. If it seeps between the flue lining and the chimney, then it can rust damper assemblies, decay the flue mortar, damage the home’s walls and ceiling, and more.  Making sure that the chimney’s crown, the cement surface at the top of the chimney, is in good shape can help prevent these issues.  If the crown is damaged, then it might need repairs or replacement.  An annual inspection can detect small crown problems before they become large ones.

Separation

Many homes have their chimney attached to the outside; over time, the chimney’s foundation can crack if the ground underneath it shifts, as well as from the weight of the chimney itself.  A cracked or weakened foundation can lead to the chimney cleaving away from the home so it is important to have an annual inspection done in order to spot foundation deterioration and a loosening chimney early on.

Although it is easy to ignore your chimney, annual inspections are vital to ensure that it is safe and working properly.  If it is time to have your chimney inspected, then please contact us at Fiddler on the Roof Chimney Service. Our professional team of inspectors is standing by and looks forward to working with you.