Frequently Ask Questions

The level of chimney inspection your home needs will depend on several factors involving use, condition, damage and changes. Whether you have a gas or wood burning fireplace, getting an inspection should be part of your regular maintenance routine. 

There are 3 levels of chimney inspections: 

1. Level 1 Visual Inspection
2. Level 2 Safety Inspection 
3. Level 3 In-depth inspection 

If you would like to read more about each level or learn more about what each inspection includes you can view more here. 

NFPA 211 recommends an annual inspection if you continually used your chimney and you didn’t change anything with it. If you’re asking, you probably need one. Inspections should be routine so we can find and fix minor issues before they become major problems. If you’re not sure your chimney is safe to use, or if it’s just been a while since your last inspection, it’s probably a good time to contact us!

There are a few things you should consider before using your fireplace:

1. Make sure your chimney is clean and in good repair. A dirty or damaged chimney can cause a chimney fire, which can be dangerous.
2. Only burn dry, seasoned wood in your fireplace. Wet or unseasoned wood can produce more smoke and creosote, which can build up in your chimney and increase the risk of a chimney fire.
3. Use a fireplace screen or glass doors to keep embers from escaping the fireplace and starting a fire.
4. Keep flammable materials at least three feet away from the fireplace.
5. Make sure you have a working smoke detector and a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency.
6. If you have any doubts about the safety of your fireplace, it’s a good idea to have it inspected by a certified professional.

The cost of a full chimney sweep depends on the current state of your chimney system. A chimney sweep is only performed following a full chimney safety inspection by one of our highly trained and certified technicians. It is vital to see what is going on in your chimney to determine the best solution for your home. The full cost of inspection is waived towards a full chimney cleaning. 

The repair work needed for your chimney or fireplace depends on the current state of your chimney.  

All repair work is performed after a full chimney safety inspection is completed by one of our highly trained and certified technicians. It is vital to understand the ins and outs of your chimney system and customize a solution for your home. The full cost of inspection is waived towards any scope of work.

Our services areas in San Francisco Bay Area For a full list of the areas we service you can visit our service area page. 

Fire brick lining is necessary when you are installing or repairing your fireplace because it will provide insulation and protect against heat loss. If you neglect this step when building or repairing your fireplace, there is a risk that the heat of the fire or the natural gasses that emit from the fire may damage the masonry and joints. By preventing overheating and corrosion, a chimney liner ensures a longer life for your chimney.

A chimney should be cleaned when it becomes clogged with soot and creosote. Soot is a byproduct of incomplete combustion, and creosote is a sticky, tar-like substance that forms when wood is burned. When a chimney is clogged with soot and creosote, it can become a fire hazard. To determine if your chimney needs cleaning, you can look for the following signs:

• A strong, unpleasant odor emanating from the chimney
• Visible creosote on the walls of the chimney or on the firebox
• Smoke filling the room when you use the fireplace
• Difficulty starting or maintaining a fire in the fireplace

The frequency with which you should have your chimney cleaned will depend on a few factors, including the type of fuel you burn, the type of fireplace or stove you have, and how often you use it. Here are some general guidelines for chimney cleaning:

• If you burn wood: You should have your chimney inspected and cleaned at least once a year. If you use your fireplace or wood stove regularly, you may need to have it cleaned more often.
• If you burn oil: You should have your chimney inspected and cleaned at least once a year.
• If you burn gas: You generally do not need to have your chimney cleaned as often, as gas burns cleanly and does not produce soot or creosote. However, it’s a good idea to have your chimney inspected annually to ensure that it is in good condition.

Keep in mind that these are general guidelines and you should consult one of our professional chimney inspectors to determine the appropriate frequency of cleaning for your specific chimney.

If your chimney is leaking, it’s important to fix it as soon as possible to prevent damage to your home. The first step in fixing a chimney leak is to determine the cause of the leak. Some common causes of chimney leaks include:

• A damaged chimney crown or flashing
• Cracks in the chimney masonry
• A damaged chimney cap
• A malfunctioning chimney flue

Once you’ve identified the cause of the leak, you can take the first step to repair it. You may need to hire a professional chimney sweep to do the job.

It’s generally a good idea to have any cracks in your chimney inspected by a professional as soon as you notice them. Small cracks can often be repaired easily, but larger or more numerous cracks may indicate a more serious issue that needs to be addressed. If left unrepaired, cracks in your chimney can allow water to enter, which can cause further damage and create a safety hazard. Cracks can also weaken the structure of the chimney, which can be dangerous if not addressed. If you notice any cracks in your chimney, it’s best to have them inspected as soon as possible to determine the cause and appropriate course of action.