Benefits of Getting a Chimney Video Scan
As a homeowner, performing routine maintenance and upkeep are crucial for functionality, efficiency, and your family’s safety. One maintenance chore many people overlook is the chimney. Professional chimney service companies use modern technology like video scanning to assess your chimney’s health and safety. Let’s look at why you should consider getting a chimney video scan as soon as possible.
What is a Chimney Video Scan?
A chimney video scan involves a camera mounted on a swiveling rod sent up the chimney by a professional sweep.
This camera captures high-definition video and sends it back to a monitor in real time for evaluation. Chimney sweeps look for evidence of creosote buildup, cracks, obstructions, or anything else that could impede the chimney’s performance or make it unsafe.
Benefits of a Chimney Video Scan
Getting a regular chimney video scan is recommended for the following reasons.
Preventing Chimney Fires
According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America, “most chimney fires are caused by a dirty chimney.” Burning wood produces smoke, which contains unburned particles.
The smoke cools as it goes up the flue and condenses along the interior walls. Over time, this coating (called creosote) builds up. Creosote is highly flammable, so you must remove it. A chimney video scan shows the chimney sweep if there’s creosote, so you can schedule cleaning to keep your family and home safe.
Detecting Obstructions
Besides creosote, obstructions can impede proper ventilation and drafting and put you at risk of a fire. The most common obstructions are bird nests, storm debris, and masonry materials that deteriorate and fall into the chimney. Regular chimney inspections detect chimney blockages early before they become major problems or put you at risk.
Saving Money on Repairs
Neglecting your chimney for years is a surefire way to end up needing expensive masonry and other repairs. With annual chimney video inspections, you can identify minor issues like cracks and fix them before they worsen and require thousands of dollars in chimney rebuilding.
Increasing Chimney Efficiency
A clean and well-maintained chimney functions more efficiently, saving you money on fuel costs and improving your home’s air quality.
How Often Should You Get a Chimney Video Scan
The National Fire Protection Association and the Chimney Safety Institute of America recommend annual chimney inspection and maintenance, preferably in the fall. Besides performing a visual inspection, a video scan is also recommended because the high-definition cameras can reveal issues the human eye might miss.
Call the Experts at Fire N’ Stone
At Fire N’ Stone, we offer chimney video inspection services and much more. We’re a full-service chimney, fireplace, and custom stone shop, proudly serving residents throughout central New Hampshire.
We’re family owned and operated with over 13 years of experience. Contact us when you need the following:
- Chimney cleaning
- Chimney rebuilding
- Chimney repairs
- Chimney restoration
- Chimney lining installation
- Chimney cap installation
- Fireplace installation
- Custom stonework
- And more
We also have a spacious 3,400-square-foot showroom featuring over 60 built-in fireplaces, inserts, and stoves in wood, gas, pellet, and electric. Get in touch with us today at 603-293-4040 or stop into our shop at 539 Laconia Rd., Tilton, NH.