Trusted Chimney Services in New Albany, OH

A chimney inspection is a detailed evaluation of the chimney and venting system to ensure everything is functioning as safely and efficiently as possible. There are three levels available.

Level 1 chimney inspections are the most basic and are required annually for chimneys that haven't experienced any major changes or issues – like chimney fires, weather damage, fuel changes, relining, etc. It includes a visual check of the readily accessible parts of the chimney structure, and the technician will look for signs of damage or buildup that could make use dangerous.

Level 2 chimney inspections are more in-depth and are required when a home is being sold, after a chimney fire, or when changes have been made to the system (such as installing a new liner or changing appliance types). This inspection includes all aspects of a Level 1 inspection but also includes accessible areas of the attic, crawl spaces, and basements. Most importantly, it often involves video scanning of the interior flue to check for hidden cracks, blockages, or deterioration.

Level 3 chimney inspections are the most intensive and are usually only performed when serious hazards are suspected. They usually involve removing parts of the chimney or surrounding walls to examine concealed areas. This is rare and typically follows a chimney/house fire or a structural event (like an earthquake or lightning strike).

Regardless of the level, a chimney inspection helps identify problems like creosote buildup, cracked flue liners, loose bricks, water damage, or poor ventilation – all of which can pose serious safety hazards or structural damage if left unaddressed. A qualified chimney professional will also check for proper clearances from combustibles and ensure that any connected appliances are venting correctly.

First, you'll need to figure out the source of the leak by booking a professional chimney inspection. Water can enter the chimney system in several ways – through a damaged or missing chimney cap, cracked or deteriorated crown (the top surface of the chimney), faulty flashing (where the chimney meets the roof), porous brick and mortar, deteriorated flue liners, and more – so getting professional eyes on the situation is a must.

Next, invest in necessary repairs. Usually water issues can be resolved with one of the following services:

• Chimney Cap Installation: A properly installed cap prevents rain, snow, debris, and animals from entering. If it's missing or damaged, replacing it is often the simplest fix.
• Chimney Crown Repair & Rebuild: Cracks in the crown can allow water to seep in. These can often be repaired with a crown sealant, or in severe cases, the crown may need to be rebuilt if it wasn't built properly from the start.
• Flashing Repair or Installation: If the flashing (metal sheets that seal the area where the roof meets the chimney) is loose or deteriorated, water can leak in at the roofline. A professional roofer or chimney technician can reseal or replace it.
• Masonry Repair or Rebuild: Over time, bricks and mortar can absorb water or develop cracks. Repointing the mortar joints and investing in brick replacement will help restore the integrity of the chimney.

Once repairs are completed, we highly recommend investing in chimney waterproofing services. We can apply a breathable waterproofing agent to your exterior masonry, which will allow any pre-absorbed moisture and fumes to properly escape…while preventing any new moisture from entering.