Thorough Chimney Inspection Services
A chimney inspection is one of the most important steps in protecting your home, your fireplace, and your family. Over time, chimney fires, creosote buildup, weather exposure, and structural wear can compromise your chimney’s safety and efficiency.
Regular chimney inspections by a certified chimney sweep like Bramwell-McKay Masonry Restoration help detect problems early, prevent costly repairs, and keep your heating appliances functioning as they should.
When Should I Get My Chimney Inspected?
Your chimney should be inspected at least once a year, ideally before the colder months when your fireplace or stove will see the most use. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends an annual chimney inspection to identify issues before they become serious.
During your inspection, a certified chimney sweep should check for cracked flue liners, damaged chimney crowns, loose bricks, or a failing chimney cap—all of which may be difficult to notice without a professional evaluation.
These issues can impact the safety and structural integrity of your chimney system, increasing the risks of carbon monoxide or chimney fire. Regular inspections give you a clear picture of your chimney’s condition, help you plan for any necessary repairs, and ensure your system is functioning properly year-round.
The Three Levels of Chimney Inspections
According to the NFPA, there are three distinct levels of chimney inspection, each designed for specific situations and conditions that prompt the need for an inspection.
Level One Inspection
A level one inspection is a visual inspection of readily accessible areas of the chimney’s interior and exterior. This includes checking the flue opening, firebox, and connections to heating appliances such as a wood stove. It’s recommended for annual maintenance when no major changes or issues are suspected.
Level Two Inspection
A level 2 inspection includes all aspects of a level one, plus the use of video scanning or other special tools to access concealed areas like crawl spaces or attics. This inspection is required when there are changes to the chimney structure, after a chimney fire, or during the sale of a home.
Level Three Inspection
The most in-depth level, a level three inspection, may involve limited removal of components to inspect hidden damage or structural issues. This is performed when serious hazards are suspected and is critical for uncovering problems that could threaten your home’s safety.
Not sure what level of inspection your home needs? That’s okay. Our inspectors are here to help guide you through the entire inspection process.
What to Expect in a Chimney Evaluation
A thorough chimney inspection with Bramwell-McKay is more than a quick glance at the fireplace. Our process is designed to give you a complete understanding of your chimney’s condition so you can make informed decisions about maintenance and repairs.
Full Service Chimney Cleaning and Repair
If our inspection does reveal concerns, we are fully equipped to handle them promptly with our complete range of chimney cleaning and repair services. This means we can remove hazardous creosote buildup, clear away debris, and restore your chimney’s function with targeted repairs.
Our expertise covers everything from repairing or replacing damaged masonry to installing a new chimney cap and addressing issues with the chimney crown. By managing both the inspection and the necessary repairs in-house, we save you time, ensure the work meets our high standards, and return your chimney to safe, efficient operation for the seasons ahead.
Why Choose Bramwell-McKay for Chimney Care
Bramwell-McKay Masonry Restoration has spent decades providing thorough, detailed chimney inspections guided by the standards of the Chimney Safety Institute and the National Fire Protection Association. Our team uses advanced tools and extensive experience to ensure your chimney’s condition is fully understood and that you have the information you need to keep your family safe.
Keep Your Home Warm and Safe This Winter: Schedule an Inspection
Homeowners have enough to think about during the colder months without worrying about the condition of their chimney. Our certified team will check that concern off your list by providing a thorough, detailed evaluation of every part of your chimney system. You can get through the season with peace of mind, knowing your chimney is safe, efficient, and prepared to keep your family protected all year long.