Inspect Fireplace and Chimney
Why It Matters
Creosote buildup in chimneys is a leading cause of house fires. Annual inspection is critical for safe fireplace use.
Quick Guide
- 1
Gather your tools and materials
You'll need: basic tools. Materials required: necessary materials.
- 2
Perform the inspect fireplace and chimney
Have a professional inspect and clean the chimney before heating season. Safety note: Never use a fireplace without a recent chimney inspection.
- 3
Verify and clean up
Check that the work was completed correctly and clean up your workspace. If always - chimney inspection requires professional certification, consider calling a professional.
Community Tips
Creosote buildup inside the flue is highly flammable and can ignite unexpectedly, especially if the chimney hasn't been professionally swept in over a year. This is the leading cause of chimney fires, which spread rapidly and can damage the structure or enter the home.
A FLIR ONE Pro thermal imaging camera ($200-300) attached to a smartphone reveals hidden heat loss, missing mortar, and moisture intrusion that visual inspection alone cannot detect, making it invaluable for identifying costly problems before they worsen.
Professional chimney inspection and sweeping typically costs $150-300 annually, but skipping this maintenance can result in $5,000+ in structural repairs or dangerous creosote fires that insurance may not fully cover. ---