Chimney Inspection
Inside a chimney and fireplace inspection
Local specialists, upfront pricing and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every inspection visit in Crystal Point.
Mantels and trim near the heat
Wood mantels, trim and decorative panels must stay a set distance from a masonry fireplace opening, and the allowed distance depends on how far the material projects. A remodel can move these parts closer than the original builder placed them.
The mantel, the surround and any shelving near the opening are checked against the clearances that apply, and we explain where each stands. For a factory-built unit, the maker's installation instructions govern these distances instead. If something sits too close, we explain the options, from moving the trim to changing the material.
Chase top and storm collar
A metal chimney inside a framed chase is closed at the top by a metal chase cover, with a storm collar around the pipe. When the cover sags or rusts, water can collect and run into the chase.
In one fireplace maker's instructions, the chase top has to pitch downward, away from the opening for the pipe. We check the slope, the seams, the collar seal and the cap above. Rust-through, standing water and a collar that has slipped down the pipe are each noted with a recommendation to repair or replace the part.
Accessible attic and crawl space sections
Where the chimney passes through an attic or crawl space that can be entered safely, that section shows things no other view can. Clearance to framing, stains on nearby wood and the condition of the chimney walls are all visible there.
We only inspect areas we can reach without removing permanent finishes. If a section is closed in, the findings say so, and we explain whether opening it would answer a real question. Stains found in the attic are compared with the roof junction above them, which often narrows where water is entering.
Findings explained at the house
Our team walks you through the findings before we leave, pointing to the parts involved wherever you can see them safely. You can ask questions while the fireplace is right in front of you.
Technical terms are explained in plain words. If a finding depends on the building code or a maker's instructions, we tell you which one, so you know the reason behind the recommendation. The written estimate that follows uses the same names for each part, which makes it easy to match the price to what you were shown.
