Chimney Inspections

Q: Can You DIY a Chimney Inspection?

Technically? Well, sure. But, should you? Absolutely not. It should really go without saying, but a structure meant to contain and vent a fire inside of your home, is safety-critical and thus requires expertise to ensure that it is set up and running properly and according to code. For this reason, it is never recommended that you attempt to inspect your chimney yourself – even if you’re a self-made professional according to the articles and YouTube videos you’ve ingested. Save yourself the trouble and give us a call.

Q: How Often Does A Chimney Really Need To Be Cleaned?

Ok, so a chimney should be checked annually, but does it really need to be cleaned annually, too? Even if you don’t use it? Yes, and yes. It’s actually quite common that people think they do not need to clean their chimneys/fireplace systems because they never use them, but this is, unfortunately, not the case. Even in instances where chimneys are not frequently (or ever) used, there is still damage that can occur to the system and pose dangers to not only your chimney system, but also your home and family. In terms of frequency of sweepings, this mainly just depends on both the system and your operational habits of it. If you’re using your fireplace nearly all day everyday in those long, cold, Ohio winter hours, your system will naturally accumulate more soot, dust, creosote, and overall grime than a system used only for a few hours once or twice a week. The important thing here is just to maintain an awareness of your chimney/fireplace (as well as schedule annual chimney sweepings), so that you know how it looks when it’s “clean” and when maybe it’s time to schedule a cleaning/sweeping with a professional.

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Your Local Chimney Experts

Chimney Inspections Near Cincinnati: Montgomery County’s Trusted Experts

At Oesterling Chimney Repair and Sweeps, we understand the importance of regular chimney inspections to maintain the safety and efficiency of your fireplace. Serving Montgomery County and Cincinnati, our team brings nearly 20 years of experience to every inspection, ensuring your home remains secure and your chimney operates optimally.

Need a chimney inspection? Call our Batesville location at 812-934-3512, our Columbus location at 812-372-3512 or request an estimate online.

What Is a Chimney Inspection & Why Is It Necessary?

A chimney inspection is a thorough assessment of your chimney system to ensure everything is functioning correctly. These inspections help identify issues that may require repair, replacement, or restoration before they become major safety hazards.

Chimney Inspections vs. Chimney Cleanings

While similar, a chimney inspection is different from a chimney cleaning (also called a chimney sweeping). During a cleaning, our certified technicians remove soot, creosote buildup, and debris to improve airflow and prevent fire hazards. Inspections, on the other hand, diagnose structural or functional issues to keep your system in top condition.

Regardless of what your chimney needs, Oesterling Chimney Repair and Sweeps is here to help. Contact us today!

How Often Should You Inspect Your Chimney?

Annual Chimney Inspections: A Must for Homeowners

According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), homeowners should schedule a professional chimney inspection at least once a year, ideally before the burning season.

Signs Your Chimney May Need Immediate Attention

If you notice any of the following, contact a professional immediately:

Unusual odors coming from the firebox
Signs of water leaks, such as dripping inside the flue
Gas logs failing to ignite or staying lit
Smoke entering your home instead of venting properly
Excessive soot or creosote buildup inside the firebox

Ignoring these warning signs can lead to dangerous conditions, including chimney fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.

When Should You Schedule a Chimney Inspection?

Both the CSIA and the NFPA recommend yearly chimney inspections to help prevent fire hazards and carbon monoxide poisoning. While eliminating the risk of these entirely isn’t possible, inspections are the most effective way to drastically reduce it.

In addition to annual maintenance, schedule an inspection if:

You’ve made changes to your chimney system (e.g., new liner, fuel type change)
Your fireplace isn’t performing efficiently
You’ve had a chimney fire
Your home has experienced a severe storm, earthquake, or other hazardous weather event
You’re buying or selling a home with a chimney
You’ve recently renovated or remodeled

Proactive inspections prevent costly repairs and ensure your chimney is safe to use.

Understanding the Different Levels of Chimney Inspections

There are three levels of chimney inspections, each with a specific purpose:

Level 1 Chimney Inspection

This is a basic inspection for chimneys that have been regularly maintained and haven’t undergone any major changes. It includes checking for obstructions, combustible deposits, and structural soundness.

Level 2 Chimney Inspection

A Level 2 inspection is required when:

A new heating appliance is installed
There’s a change in fuel type
You’re selling or buying a home with a chimney
The chimney has experienced damage from a storm or fire

This inspection includes everything from Level 1, plus an attic, basement, and crawl space assessment, as well as a video inspection of the flue.

Level 3 Chimney Inspection

When serious hazards are suspected, a Level 3 inspection is necessary. This can involve removing parts of walls, chimney components, or ceilings to access hidden areas. While more invasive, it ensures that potential dangers are properly identified and addressed.

Not sure which level of inspection you need? Call our Batesville location at 812-934-3512, our Columbus location at 812-372-3512 or request an estimate online.

Chimney Inspection Checklist: What We Look For

During an inspection, we assess several key components, including:

Flashing: Ensuring all seams are properly sealed to prevent leaks
Chimney Cap: Checking for corrosion or damage
Crown or Chase Cover: Ensuring it provides adequate protection from moisture
Brick & Mortar Condition: Identifying any signs of deterioration or spalling
Signs of Animal Intrusion: Looking for nests or blockages
Flue Liner Integrity: Checking for cracks, holes, or buildup
Damper Functionality: Ensuring it opens and closes properly
Firebox & Surrounding Area: Assessing for fire damage or loose bricks

Having specific concerns? Let us know during your appointment!

Understanding Chimney Components & Their Functions

Familiarizing yourself with your chimney’s parts can help you spot issues early. Here’s an overview of key components:

1. Chimney Cap

A metal cover that prevents water damage, debris buildup, and animal intrusion while allowing ventilation.

2. Chimney Crown or Chase Cover

Crown: A cement/concrete top that prevents water infiltration
Chase Cover: A metal cover found on prefab chimneys, offering similar protection

3. Flashing

Seals the gap between the chimney and roof to prevent leaks and water damage.

4. Flue Liner

A protective lining inside the chimney that ensures safe ventilation and prevents heat transfer to combustible materials.

5. Smoke Chamber & Smoke Shelf

Smoke Chamber: Directs smoke into the flue
Smoke Shelf: Prevents backdraft and enhances chimney performance

6. Damper

A manual or top-sealing device that controls airflow and prevents energy loss when the chimney isn’t in use.

7. Firebox

The fire-resistant area where the fire burns. It must be built with high-quality, heat-resistant materials.

Schedule Your Chimney Inspection Today!

A well-maintained chimney ensures safety, efficiency, and peace of mind. Whether you need an annual checkup, a post-storm assessment, or a real estate inspection, Oesterling Chimney Repair and Sweeps is here to help.

Call our Batesville location at 812-934-3512, our Columbus location at 812-372-3512 or request an estimate online to keep your chimney in top condition!

Chimney Inspection FAQ’s

Browse our frequently asked questions that we here often from our customers about Chimney Inspections. Feel free to reach out to our team if you have other questions or can’t find your answer below.

While there are some obvious signs of damage that signal using the system is dangerous, like excessive smoke production, intense soot and creosote buildup, and visible cracks anywhere in the masonry or firebox, issues might not always be so clear. In many instances, much of what can go wrong with a chimney is found deep within the walls of the system.

The best and most reliable way to know whether or not your chimney is safe to use is to have it appropriately inspected by a professional in a timely manner. To learn more about Mid-Valley, our team, and our services, give us a call at 513-727-0994. Learn why homeowners throughout Cincinnati, Dayton, and the surrounding areas prefer Mid-Valley for all their chimney and venting repairs, maintenance, and services.

We’re sure you can imagine our answer to this question… but yes, hiring a certified chimney technician is absolutely worth it. Not only do they get in there and take care of all the dirt, grime, and nastiness found in the deepest and darkest parts of your chimney system, but they also can identify problematic – or potentially problematic – areas. Deceptively complicated, chimneys are dangerous structures that have a lot of parts at play, so it’s always best to trust a professional technician when it comes to all things chimney.

Besides, finding and working with a professional chimney service company, such as ours, will save you time and money in the future because we’ll be sure to get the job done right the first time. That way, you don’t have to worry about any malfunctions or major repair costs down the line.

Technically? Well, sure. But, should you? Absolutely not.

It should really go without saying, but a structure meant to contain and vent a fire inside of your home, is safety-critical and thus requires expertise to ensure that it is set up and running properly and according to code. For this reason, it is never recommended that you attempt to inspect your chimney yourself – even if you’re a self-made professional according to the articles and YouTube videos you’ve ingested. Save yourself the trouble and give us a call.

Ok, so a chimney should be checked annually, but does it really need to be cleaned annually, too? Even if you don’t use it?

Yes, and yes. It’s actually quite common that people think they do not need to clean their chimneys/fireplace systems because they never use them, but this is, unfortunately, not the case. Even in instances where chimneys are not frequently (or ever) used, there is still damage that can occur to the system and pose dangers to not only your chimney system, but also your home and family.

In terms of frequency of sweepings, this mainly just depends on both the system and your operational habits of it. If you’re using your fireplace nearly all day everyday in those long, cold, Ohio winter hours, your system will naturally accumulate more soot, dust, creosote, and overall grime than a system used only for a few hours once or twice a week.

The important thing here is just to maintain an awareness of your chimney/fireplace (as well as schedule annual chimney sweepings), so that you know how it looks when it’s “clean” and when maybe it’s time to schedule a cleaning/sweeping with a professional.

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Book Your Annual Chimney Inspection with Oesterling Today

Don’t wait until small issues turn into costly, hazardous problems—schedule your chimney inspection now! Many homeowners put this off until fall, but booking in spring or summer ensures you get a convenient appointment and peace of mind before the colder months. Our expert team is ready to provide top-tier service, so you don’t have to settle for anything less than the best. Give us a call today and secure your spot with Oesterling.