There are many different things to consider when it comes to your chimney. Some of the things you should know are about Level 2 inspections, cleaning, repair, and rebuilding. In this article, we will discuss some of these issues. This will help you make an informed decision on how to proceed with your chimney’s upkeep. We will also cover the basics of Level 2 inspections. In addition, you should understand that chimneys can be dangerous if they have not been properly maintained so better contact a professional from Patriot Chimney Roanoke VA for instance they could help.
Level 2 Inspection
A Level 2 chimney inspection is more extensive than a Level 1 inspection. A technician performing a Level 2 inspection may also look at other parts of the home close to the chimney. This may include your attic or crawlspace. In addition, they may use video inspection equipment to examine the chimney structure and flue lining. This will provide more detailed information on cracks, damage, and other problems.
A Level 2 inspection is necessary if you’re making changes to your chimney, such as changing the fuel type or adding a new appliance. Another reason to have a Level 2 inspection is if you plan to sell your home or remodel it. A Level 2 inspection can also help prevent damage from a building fire or an earthquake.
Cleaning
The first step in cleaning your chimney is to inspect the inside condition. If the interior has a buildup of creosote or other debris, you should brush it out. You can also use a shop vacuum to eliminate any soot in the lower areas. To do this properly, you should wear protective clothing and eyeglasses. Also, ensure you do not operate an open flame near the chimney, and wash your hands thoroughly after contact with soot.
Failure to clean your chimney can result in a fire, which could be deadly. Besides putting your house at risk, uncleaned chimneys can also pose a health risk to your family and pets. The inhalation of flammable gases can cause skin and eye irritation, headaches, and breathing problems. Exposure to such gases for a long time can lead to lung and skin cancer.
Rebuilding
If your chimney has crumbling mortar or large cracks, consider rebuilding it. Depending on the age and condition of your chimney, you may need a new liner or bricks. A professional chimney repointing service is available to help you. The process involves replacing the old mortar with new mortar.
The quality of the work will depend on the contractor you hire. Make sure the contractor is qualified, certified, and experienced. It is a good idea to check references from previous clients to see if they are satisfied with their work. You also want to ask a contractor if they provide a warranty and written contract. Then, you can decide on a payment plan that will meet your needs.
Bird Nests
Bird nests in chimneys can be a problem. Not only do they cause a lot of damage to the chimney, but they can also be dangerous. They can harbor various pests, such as fleas, ticks, and mites. Additionally, they can spread histoplasmosis, a fungus that can infect the lungs. This illness is severe and is often fatal if left untreated.
Birds often live in chimneys because they are warm and protected from the elements. Bird droppings are often a significant health risk since they can carry diseases that can be fatal. Some of these diseases are dangerous to human health, especially for infants, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems. Therefore, it is essential to avoid letting birds in your chimney.
Cleaning With a Drone
If you have chimney cleaning needs, cleaning with a drone can effectively get the job done. Drones are lightweight, portable, and highly versatile, and the DJI Mavic Air is one of the best choices for residential homes. It folds like a water bottle and has a 4K camera that records video at 100 Mbps. Another plus is that it can shoot in high-resolution, full-color, 30 fps video.
Drones are also effective for chimney inspection. A drone can provide a detailed report and video. The Elios 2 drone, for instance, can collect visual data on pipes and find leaks that would take a human inspector many hours to find. The drones’ camera capabilities allow the operator to view the images from a distance and send the data back to a ground inspector for further analysis.
