Chapter 17 – Inspecting Chimneys & Fireplaces

We will continue our inspection with chimneys and flue pipes.

Wood and gas burning stoves for indoor heating and decorative uses have been in existence for hundreds of years. The idea of building a fire inside a living space is such an accepted practice that we have lost touch with the hazards of doing so. Fortunately the manufacturers and building codes have remained focused for our protection.

There are hundreds of fireplace and stove products on the market therefore you will conduct only a very basic inspection. We ALWAYS recommend that a qualified chimney inspector evaluate any fireplace, chimney and wood or gas burning stove. To not do so would be negligent.

Fireplace chimneys can be made of masonry (brick or concrete block) and might have a tile or metal liner, siding that matches the exterior of the building (zero clearance construction) or metal flue piping (single, double or triple wall pipes) depending on the location and manufacturers specifications.

Masonry fireplace chimneys should be checked for any cracks at the exterior and in the liner. Gaps between the chimney and the building are not a good sign.

Zero-clearance fireplaces are essentially a wooden box with a metal fluepipe inside. Inspect a zero clearance chimney as you would exterior siding.

There should be a spark arrestor or bonnet at the top of wood burning fireplaces and stove flue pipes and the flue should be cleaned and checked for cracks by a qualified tradesperson.

Exterior flue pipes should never terminate under the eaves of the roof. Flue pipes rising over 6′ above the roof need to be braced.

Remove tree branches and foliage growing over the chimney.

If the roof is particularly steep or if the chimney is more than 2′ wide, a “cricket” should be installed to prevent water, snow and debris from collecting behind the chimney. (A chimney cricket is a wedge shaped flashing installed behind the chimney. The flashing diverts drifting snow and water around the chimney and prevents a build-up of debris.)
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CHIMNEYS & FLUE PIPE FINDINGS: REMEDIES & SOLUTIONS

Fireplace and stove chimneys and flues can only be properly inspected and certified by a licensed Chimney Sweep. Chimney Sweep inspections and cleaning are inexpensive and should be done annually even if you don’t plan to sell your home.

DO NOT CLIMB ON YOUR ROOF!

Usually everything you need to see can be observed from the ground. If not, play it safe and let a professional do the work for you.

PHOTO GALLERY

An additional 16 images with descriptive captions are available in the 27 Dollar Home Inspections eBook.

Click here to move on to
Chapter 18 – Inspecting Perimeter Grade