We Provide Chimney Inspections Near McLean, VA: Trust Winston’s for Everything Chimney
We’d love to be your go-to provider, when searching for chimney inspection services near you. The team at Winston’s Chimney Service travels to McLean, Great Falls, Falls Church, and more. Don’t wait to reach out – call or book online today.
Do I Need Annual Chimney Inspections if I Don’t Use My Fireplace?
Yes – even if you rarely – or never – use your fireplace, regular chimney inspections are still essential. Here’s why:
- Your chimney can still experience damage. Chimneys are exposed to the elements year-round, leading to potential cracks, brick deterioration, or shifting – all of which can make your home vulnerable.
- Leaks and water damage could cause bigger issues. Unused chimneys can still develop water leaks, leading to mold, mildew, weakened masonry, interior wall staining, wood rot, and more.
- Animals love to nest in unused chimneys. Birds, squirrels, and other critters often nest in unused chimneys, inviting smells, pests, noises, and more unpleasantness.
- You could still experience clogging. Even if you don’t burn wood or burn much at all, debris like leaves, dust, and animal nests can collect inside a flue, making it unsafe for use should you ever want to light a fire down line.
- Your insurance policy or warranty coverage may require it. Many homeowners’ insurance policies require regular chimney inspections, meaning you might not be covered if a big storm or other incident causes damage – same for warranties.
- Neglecting inspections lowers your home value. Whether or not you use your chimney and fireplace, it needs to be in good condition if you choose to sell down the line – and it’s better to invest in affordable maintenance now, rather than expensive repairs and rebuilds later.
Book your appointment with our team today.
Are Chimney Inspections & Chimney Sweepings the Same Thing?
Chimney inspections and chimney sweepings are not the same – though they often go hand in hand and are performed within the same service trip.
- A chimney inspection is a detailed evaluation of your chimney’s structure, flue, and overall condition. A certified professional checks for cracks, blockages, water damage, and potential safety hazards. Inspections are categorized into different levels, ranging from a basic visual check to an in-depth examination using cameras and specialized tools.
- A chimney sweeping focuses on clearing out the chimney to remove soot, creosote buildup, and any debris that could cause blockages or fire hazards. Sweeping helps maintain proper airflow and reduces the risk of chimney fires.
While a chimney sweeping may address visible damage or obstructions, a full inspection is necessary to assess the chimney’s integrity and functionality thoroughly. Most sweeps perform both services together to ensure a better look in the flue – i.e. it’s hard to properly inspect a dirty chimney.
Do Home Inspections Include the Chimney?
If you’re buying or selling a home, a home inspection will need to be on your to-do list. But if the home has a fireplace, do you need to schedule a professional chimney inspection, as well?
While a standard home inspection typically includes a basic evaluation of the chimney, home inspectors are not chimney specialists, so you should always schedule an inspection with a certified sweep, as well. Neglecting this could result in costly issues being missed – things that would affect the value of the home and what you end up paying for it.
What does a home inspection cover, in regards to the chimney?
- Home inspectors perform a general, visual assessment of the chimney’s exterior.
- They check for obvious structural damage, such as missing bricks, cracks, or leaning chimneys.
- The inspector may look inside the fireplace, but is not required to conduct an in-depth chimney examination.
- Venting and airflow issues may be noted, but testing for blockages, creosote buildup, or internal damage is not included.
What does a home inspection NOT cover?
- A home inspector does not perform a full level 2 chimney inspection, which is required for real estate transactions.
- They do not use cameras or specialized tools to inspect the chimney liner or flue.
- Hidden issues, such as internal cracks, blockages, or excessive creosote buildup, can go undetected.
- Structural concerns, like damaged chimney crowns, flashing issues, or moisture problems, are often overlooked.
A certified chimney professional will conduct a thorough internal and external level 2 chimney inspection upon the transfer of a property. Level 2 inspections include video scanning of the chimney flue, as well as the remove of any doors or panels with the use of basic tools.
While a home inspection may briefly assess the chimney, it does not provide the detailed evaluation needed to ensure safety and proper function. Hiring a professional for a dedicated chimney inspection is the best way to avoid hidden dangers and costly repairs.
Don’t Wait! – Schedule Your Appointment Now
Book Your McLean, VA Chimney Inspection Today
Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a costly or dangerous problem – schedule your McLean, VA chimney inspection today. Regular inspections keep your home safer, your fireplace running more efficiently, and your chimney in compliance with local codes. Whether you use your fireplace daily or just occasionally, a professional inspection ensures everything is in top condition.
Contact us now to book your appointment and enjoy peace of mind knowing your chimney is in expert hands.
