Fall is almost here, which means that soon the weather will be getting cooler and fireplaces will be put to use once more. Before you start your fireplace for the first time this year, it is imperative that you make sure that it will operate efficiently and safely. If you haven’t had a chimney inspection since you used your fireplace last winter, one will need to be completed before your first fire of the season. At Leonard and Sons, we would like to help you make sure that your fireplace is ready to operate when you want to use it this fall. That is why we are offering some chimney inspection tips to help you with tipsyour fall inspection this year.

Schedule a Professional Inspection

The first thing that you need to do is schedule a professional chimney inspection and cleaning with a Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified chimney professional. If you live in the Chicagoland area, Leonard and Sons is the top-rated, CSIA certified chimney and fireplace service. Our chimney professionals will be able to determine if your chimney has developed any issues since its last annual inspection. This is done by meticulously inspecting the inside and outside of your chimney and fireplace as well as inspect your chimney and fireplace components such as your chimney crown, chimney cap, damper, and burners, to name a few. Once completed, we will go over our inspection report with you and sweep your chimney if needed.

Perform a Pre-Inspection

It is a good idea to perform your own chimney inspection before a professional inspection. Nobody knows your fireplace and chimney better than you do and having a list of potential issues and questions ready when your chimney professional arrives can help make sure all your questions are answered as well as give you peace of mind. First, look at the outside of your chimney and take note of any cracking, chipping, crumbling, or missing brickwork. Next, look and your chimney components. Is your chimney crown free of cracks and chips? Is your chimney cap still firmly in place? Is your damper working correctly? You should also look at your fireplace and see is you notice any firebox or masonry cracking or staining. Finally, try to think back to the last few times you used your fireplace. Do you remember and issues with poor fires, or smokiness? These are both signs of airflow issues. Write down any concerns you discover and when your chimney professional arrives, you can let them know, so they can address your concerns.

Call Soon

Another important fall inspection tip has to do with scheduling. Chimney sweeps become very busy once the weather starts getting cooler. That’s why it is a good idea to schedule your chimney inspection as soon as possible. This will help to ensure that you can get the schedule time slot that works best for you. Don’t wait, give Leonard and Sons a call today 847-658-7659 or set up a fall inspection appointment online today. We will help you make sure your fireplace is up and running when cold weather comes.