Differences in Level 1 & Level 2 Chimney Inspections

Most people have a basic idea of what a chimney inspection is. But not everyone understands the difference between the two most common types of chimney inspections. FlameMaster Chimney Sweep of Crystola, CO, would like to outline a Level 1 and Level 2 chimney inspection, including what’s involved and when each is necessary.

Level 1 chimney inspection

A Level 1 chimney inspection is the “standard” inspection that should be performed once a year for all active chimneys.
As described by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), a Level 1 inspection covers all readily accessible areas of your chimney system. This includes the bricks and mortar that make up the masonry structure and many of the chimney’s components.

This basic inspection is performed when there are no known problems within the system. Its purpose is to check out the system and make sure there are no early signs of trouble that could become serious down the line. Things your inspector will look for include:

• Cracks in masonry bricks
• Crumbling, deteriorated mortar joints
• White staining on the exterior masonry (a sign of water intrusion)
• Cracks in the concrete chimney crown
• Damage to the chimney cap or flue cover
• Warped or otherwise damaged chimney flashing that covers the gap between the chimney and the roof
• Any other signs that indicate a problem

It’s common during a Level 1 chimney inspection to have the chimney swept. Chimney sweeping involves using a variety of industry-grade tools to remove creosote and soot from the chimney flue. Creosote is the #1 cause of chimney fires each year in the United States. By having your chimney swept once a year, you greatly reduce the chance of a destructive fire.

Level 2 chimney inspection

A Level 2 chimney inspection includes all the work in a Level 1 inspection but goes a little further.
This inspection is performed:

1. When your home is being sold
2. When you’re connecting a new appliance to your chimney (such as a gas fireplace insert) or making modifications to the system
3. When a chimney fire, major earthquake or other event is known to have caused damage to the chimney

Level 2 chimney inspections employ a high-definition video scanner that allows your inspector to see down into your flue and assess its integrity. During this inspection, nothing will be removed or torn down. Should major, unseen damage be suspected, your inspector will recommend a more invasive Level 3 chimney inspection.

Don’t neglect your chimney inspection

Chimneys, homes and lives have been saved by regular chimney inspections. If it’s been more than a year since your last inspection and proper chimney cleaning, now is the time to schedule this work. In the greater Colorado Springs, CO, area, homeowners trust FlameMaster Chimney Sweep to provide all the services their chimneys need to keep running safely and efficiently.

Arrange an appointment or learn more about our chimney services by calling (719) 661-3277. You can also get in touch by using our simple contact form. FlameMaster services Crystola, CO, Woodland Park, CO, Divide, CO, Manitou Springs, CO, Cripple Creek, CO, Victor, CO, and other local communities.