Angie's List: Taking Precautions Before Cozying Up To The Fireplace
By Jim Donovan
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Now that winter is here you may find yourself gathering around the fireplace more often. But it's important that you take some precautions first. In this week's Angie's List report, Jim Donovan looks at some things you need to know before you cozy up in front of yours.
Before you light any fires be sure your fireplace is in good working order.
"If you live in a brand new house and don't really use your fireplace you may not need a yearly inspection. But if you live in an older home they are very important because you might find that your foundation has settled and can pull the liner away and it can start to separate. So, you want to be sure it's in good condition each year," said Angie's List founder, Angie Hicks.
And if a specialist inspects your chimney and uncovers a problem don't just take their word. Ask for photographic proof.
"When talking with your inspector be sure they are using the pictures in a way that you can actually see things that identify your house in particular. Unfortunately, the most common scam that we hear about is when a chimney inspector uses pictures from another house. So, you want to be sure that the pictures you're looking at are your house and the damage to your chimney," said Hicks.
Experts say another common mistake homeowners make is failing to use firewood that's seasoned and dry.
"It also, the wood needs to be split because the bark on a tree actually holds moisture in so once the wood is split and stacked and then it needs to dry for six months to a year and be covered," said chimney technician, Dennis Lamb.
And don't forget your gas fireplace needs to be maintained too.
"If you're burning real wood in your fireplace and you have a problem, the house may smoke up and you know you have a problem. If you're burning gas inside your fireplace and you have a problem, you might not know it 'cause it's carbon monoxide and it's deadly," said Lamb.
If anyone knocks on your door offering a low rate to clean and inspect your chimney you should probably pass and research your own chimney expert.
More from Angie:
A chimney sweep uses large, stiff brushes and other tools to dislodge creosote and soot from the interior of the chimney. Some brushes are manual and look little different from the classic chimney sweep images in "Mary Poppins," but nowadays some of the brushes are electric powered.
After removing the damper assembly to open up a wider access area, the chimney sweep works from the bottom at the open fireplace. An industrial-sized vacuum cleaner is used to remove the mess and keep it off of your carpeting.
Experts say if you use your fireplace regularly (averaging twice a week through the cold months), you should have your chimney cleaned at least once every two years. If you have more frequent fires, an annual inspection is advised. Chimney cleaning typically costs about $150 to $200.
Angie's List: Chimney Inspections
After cleaning off the creosote, the chimney specialist looks up and down the interior to check for other issues - often using a camera or even a video recorder to get a better view. Among the things they look for:
- Water damage. If rainwater is getting in the chimney or through cracks in the roof along the edge of the chimney it will damage not just the chimney but the rest of the house.
- Structural damage. Cracks in the masonry or loose bits of mortar create gaps that fire can pass through.
- Evidence of birds or animals. There's even a variety of bird so associated with its tendency to nest in chimneys that it is named the "chimney swift."
Some chimney cleaning companies also conduct video inspections. A standard cleaning and inspection might cost $140 to $200. A video inspection might be a little extra.
Angie's List Tips: Avoiding Chimney Repair Scams
- Get multiple estimates: As with hiring any contractor, it's best to receive multiple quotes before proceeding with work. Be wary of upfront prices that seem to be good to be true, and don't let contractors pressure you into snap decisions.
- Check the credentials: Certification by the Chimney Institute of America means they have gone through training in fire safety, and adhere to a professional standard of ethics. Also, check to see if your state requires a license for chimney sweeping.
- Insured and bonded? It's important to check that the company has insurance before you hire. Insurance protects your home and furnishings.
- Ask for proof: If a contractor recommends expensive repairs, they should be able to provide photo or video images of the problems. Make sure the images are actually of your home and be wary of anyone who pressures you to act immediately.
You may also be interested in these stories:
