Chimney inspection and sweeping
Every chimney repair starts with an inspection. Regular sweeping and inspection keep you safe through the heating season.
A chimney inspection checks the structure, liner, cap, crown, flashing and appliance connections for damage, blockages and fire hazards. Sweeping removes creosote, soot and debris. Many companies do both in one visit.
How often should a chimney be inspected?
NFPA 211, the national standard for chimneys, fireplaces and vents, calls for an inspection once a year, with cleaning as needed. Chimneys used heavily for wood usually need sweeping more often. The best time to book is late summer or early fall, before the busy season and the first cold snap.
What are the levels of inspection?
| Level | What's checked | Typical reason |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Readily accessible parts of the chimney, appliance and connections | Routine yearly check when nothing has changed |
| Level 2 | Level 1 plus accessible attic, crawl space and basement areas, usually with a camera scan of the flue | Buying or selling a home, changing an appliance or fuel, after a chimney fire or storm |
| Level 3 | Opening parts of the structure to reach concealed areas | When a serious hidden problem is suspected |
Buying an older home around Bangor?
A standard home inspection usually looks at the chimney from the outside and the firebox. Older homes here often have center chimneys with several flues, old clay liners, and a mix of oil, wood and unused flues. A Level 2 camera inspection before closing can reveal liner damage that would be expensive later.
What is creosote?
Creosote is the tar-like residue left when wood smoke cools in the flue. It builds up in layers and it's highly flammable. Burning green wood, smoldering fires and cold or oversized flues make it build faster. Sweeping removes it before it becomes a fire hazard.
Warning signs between inspections
- Smoke coming into the room when the stove or fireplace is lit
- A strong smoky or tar smell
- Black, flaky debris falling into the firebox
- Loud cracking or roaring sounds from the chimney (possible chimney fire)
- Carbon monoxide alarms going off
Prices come from the chimney company after they've inspected the chimney. We don't quote prices ourselves, and a phone estimate is only a starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Does my chimney need inspecting if I only burn oil?
Yes. Oil flues collect soot and scale and can be damaged by condensation. Your heating technician services the burner, but the chimney itself needs inspecting too.
When is the best time to book a sweep?
Late summer or early fall, before the heating season rush. Companies around Bangor get busy once it turns cold.
Related services
More background: Maine chimney guide.
Heating season and the chimney's acting up?
Call now and a local chimney company will inspect it and quote the repair.