We Provide Chimney Inspections Near You: Hire Becks Chimney for Service in Indianapolis, Carmel, Noblesville & More
Booking your annual chimney inspection service isn’t something to put off. If you’re seeking a reliable chimney and fireplace service provider in Carmel, Indianapolis, or anywhere else nearby, count on the qualified and experienced team at Beck’s Chimney Service to set you up right. Call or book online today.
When Should I Book My Chimney Inspection?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends having your chimney inspected at least once per year – and more than once if you use it a lot year round.
Don’t use your fireplace often or at all? Booking that chimney inspection is still important for maintaining structural integrity and ensuring your home value stays intact. Unused chimneys can still face damage from weather, and they’re a prime location for wild animals and woodland critters to set up camp.
So, now you know how often to book maintenance, but when in the year should you get it done?
We recommend scheduling in the spring or summer months. Post-winter inspections are a good idea because it’s right after your system has seen months of heavy use and may have some wear, as result.
In addition, this ensures all creosote and buildup are removed before the summer months. This is beneficial because, once your A/C is running, it can cause fireplace odors to spread through your home – a clean chimney is less likely to cause any issues.
Another big perk of booking in the spring and summer is scheduling ease. The fall and winter seasons are especially busy for chimney and fireplace companies, so it may be harder to book a time that’s convenient. Early scheduling ensures you can light up your fireplace with peace of mind as soon as cold weather hits.
And if we find damages? An early inspection ensures ample time to address them without overlapping into your normal burn season. We’d hate to see you without a usable fireplace during the holidays or winter months!
Other scenarios that warrant an inspection include:
- If you’re planning to use a chimney that hasn’t been used in years or is part of an older home
- After a severe weather event or natural disaster (earthquake, flood, tornado, etc.)
- Anytime you notice issues with how your fireplace functions (smoke in the home, difficult starting/maintaining fires, etc.)
- If you smell strange or unusual odors coming from the chimney, as this could indicate buildup or an animal invasion
- After upgrading your appliance (e.g. installing a fireplace insert) or switching fuel types
- When buying or selling a home
What Happens During a Chimney Inspection?
Here’s what we do during the inspection process:
- Inspect the chimney interior and exterior
- Check for creosote build up, animals, or blockages
- Check for any cracking, deterioration, or damage
- Ensure components are in good condition (i.e. chimney cap, damper, flashing etc.)
- Examine masonry components to see if bricks and mortar are in good condition
- Assess the overall functionality and safety of the appliance
Can My Chimney’s Condition Impact Indoor Air Quality?
Yes, it can. A chimney that’s not in good condition can invite smoke and other toxic fumes into your home, as well as mold spores. Not to mention, many of these fumes can clog your air filters, making your HVAC system work harder. Here’s a full list of issues to be aware of:
- Carbon Monoxide Leaks: If your chimney is cracked or has a damaged flue liner, this colorless, odorless gas – that can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even death – could enter the space.
- Smoke Backdraft: A blocked or improperly vented chimney can cause smoke to backdraft into your home when you try to start a fire. Smoke contains particulate matter, tar, and other compounds that are harmful when inhaled.
- Creosote Buildup: While creosote itself isn’t directly harmful to indoor air quality, its presence indicates incomplete combustion, which can lead to more smoke, particulate matter, and potentially harmful emissions entering the home.
- Mold & Mildew Growth: Chimneys with leaks or water damage can cause mold and mildew to grow throughout the system and your home. Mold spores can trigger allergic reactions and asthma, as well as cause other respiratory problems.
- Soot & Ash Spillage: Cracks in the chimney, particularly around the fireplace insert or flue, can allow soot and ash to spill into your home. The fine particles in soot can be inhaled, aggravating asthma, allergies, and other lung conditions.
What Are the Most Common Issues Found in Chimney Inspections?
- Creosote buildup
- Blockages
- Animal invasion
- Cracks or chimney liner damage
- Damaged or missing chimney cap
- Stuck or faulty damper
- Water damages and leaks
- Cracked and deteriorating mortar joints
- Poor drafting or efficiency issues
- Outdated, missing, or damaged components
For Trusted Chimney Inspection Services in Carmel, IN, Call On Us
If you’re looking for reliable chimney inspection services in Carmel, IN, look no further. Our experienced team is committed to ensuring the safety and efficiency of your chimney, helping you to avoid costly repairs, potential hazards, and efficiency issues. Don’t wait for problems to arise – schedule your chimney inspection today to keep your home safer and your fireplace running smoothly.