Chimney Cleaning

HOME * REPAIRS * REBUILDING * RESTORATION

CLEANING

Our primary goal is to aid in the prevention of fires related to fireplaces, wood stoves, gas, oil and coal heating systems and the chimneys that serve them. Wagner's Central Masonry Repair & Chimney Sweep will install, clean and maintain these systems, evaluate their performance, prescribe changes to improve their performance, and educate the consumer about their safe and efficient operation. Chimney cleaning removes creosote in order to ensure safe operation and prevent deterioration.

How often should I have my chimney cleaned?

The National Fire Protection Association standard 211 says, "Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances. Cleaning, maintenance, and repairs shall be done if necessary." This is the national safety standard and is the correct way to approach the problem. It takes into account the fact that even if you don't use your chimney much, animals may build nests in the flue or there may be other types of deterioration that could make the chimney unsafe to use.

The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends that open masonry fireplaces should be cleaned at 1/4" of sooty buildup, and sooner if there is any glaze present in the system. Factory-built fireplaces should be cleaned when any appreciable buildup occurs. This is considered to be enough fuel buildup to cause a chimney fire capable of damaging the chimney or spreading to the home.

Video Scanning

A video scan is where we use a camera system which is lowered into the chimney (or pushed up from the bottom). The camera allows us to inspect the chimney from a range of just a few inches instead of just looking from the top or bottom. The camera image is viewed on a TV monitor by the inspector. Video inspections may be recommended if we or the customer suspect certain problems. Video inspections are often recommended after a chimney fire or some other form of damage to a chimney, and are a routine part of a Level II or Level III inspection.

Inspections

The inspections of chimneys is an important service offered by Wagner's Central Masonry Repair & Chimney Sweep. Chimney inspections come in many forms and you should be aware that not all inspections are alike. At Wagner's Central Masonry Repair & Chimney Sweep, we follow the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommended inspection procedures.

LEVEL ONE INSPECTION Based on a visual inspection, we give you a written condition report. We inspect the readily accessible areas of the chimney in the living area and at the exterior of your home including the firebox, damper, and smoke chamber. Outside, we check to make sure the chimney cap meets code and does not restrict the draft. We also check for structural soundness and evidence of deterioration.
LEVEL TWO INSPECTION It is recommended that this inspection be done before beginning modifications to your chimney or stove heating system, during a change in property ownership, or after a chimney fire or natural disaster. We use a special camera system to look inside your chimney and complete a comprehensive visual inspection. A detailed written report then outlines any areas of concern.
LEVEL THREE INSPECTION A Level Three inspection includes all of the Level One and Two inspections, as well as removing portions of the chimney. A chimney has several concealed areas. Whether it is the internal metal flue pipe, or the unexposed brick of a masonry structure, sometimes it may be necessary to remove parts of chimney to inspect the area in question. This inspection is only needed if something is found in a Level One or Two Inspection.

Free Estimates. Call Now......

570-966-3612

Email: weknowchimneys@countryilink.net

Ask About our Senior Discount!

Lifetime Warranty on Chimney Liners & Caps!