Masonry (brick and mortar) chimneys require routine maintenance. They’re exposed to the elements day after day, and they play an important role in venting the products of combustion from your fireplace, furnace, boiler or gas water heater.
Stand on your lawn and use binoculars to inspect the chimney’s exterior for missing mortar or bricks, loose or deteriorated cap or crown, or loose flashings. If your chimney serves a wood-burning fireplace, the interior of the chimney also needs a professional inspection every time you’ve burned a face cord of wood. Blockage or a buildup of creosote can cause a fire or carbon monoxide problems inside your home.
Don’t rely on a cheap inspection service. A good, basic cleaning and inspection of a wood-burning fireplace and chimney should cost about $250. The service should include not only cleaning but also checking the firebox, flue, damper and external portions. The inspector should use drop cloths to protect the indoor work area. If a price quote seems too high, get a second opinion.
Look for contractors who belong to a local professional contractors’ association or the Chimney Safety Institute of America (csia.org).