Safety and efficiency are crucial when it comes to your chimney’s performance. London Chimney Services serving Excelsior offers comprehensive chimney inspections, using cutting-edge technology and following strict industry guidelines to keep your chimney in optimal condition. Our CSIA-certified technicians provide expert inspections for wood-burning and oil-burning fireplaces, as well as chimneys of any size, including first- and second-story structures.
Chimney Inspections: A Crucial Safety Measure
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends inspecting chimneys at least once a year. These inspections are key to preventing chimney fires, spotting carbon monoxide leaks, and preserving the efficiency of your fireplace and venting systems. Routine checks also help identify and address minor problems early, avoiding costly repairs and ensuring your home’s safety.
Drawing on more than 45 years of experience in Minneapolis and nearby areas, we emphasize safety in every inspection. We identify potential problems affecting your chimney’s performance and provide expert guidance to ensure it runs cleanly and safely.
Complete 21-Point Chimney Safety Inspection
At London Chimney Services serving Excelsior, we conduct a detailed 21-point safety inspection to ensure your chimney’s structural integrity and efficiency. This inspection includes:
- Examining the flue for gaps, cracks, or creosote accumulation
- Assessing the condition of the chimney cap and crown for damage
- Inspecting the masonry for deterioration or weaknesses
- Ensuring the chimney drafts correctly and maintains proper ventilation
- Detecting any moisture issues or leaks
Our technicians will thoroughly explain any problems and recommended repairs, giving you peace of mind that your chimney is safe and fully functional.
Chimney Inspection Levels (I, II, and III)
Chimney inspections vary based on your chimney’s condition, history, and recent changes. We provide three levels of inspection tailored to meet your specific needs:
- Level I Inspection: This is the most common inspection type, performed as part of regular maintenance. Our CSIA-certified technicians visually examine the chimney’s interior and exterior to ensure its structure is sound and free of obstructions, creosote, or other combustible deposits. This level is recommended for chimneys with no significant changes or issues in the past year.
- Level II Inspection: For a more in-depth evaluation, like when purchasing a property, post-chimney fire, or after structural modifications, our Level II inspection uses a specialized camera to closely examine the flue liner. Our technicians record images highlighting voids, gaps, or cracks and explain their findings to you. This inspection offers a higher level of detail than Level I, making it crucial for identifying concealed issues.
- Level III Inspection: If a Level I or II inspection uncovers potential hazards that cannot be examined without accessing concealed areas, a Level III inspection is warranted. This thorough evaluation involves opening parts of the chimney to assess its structural state. Commonly advised after chimney fires, lightning strikes, or other critical incidents, our technicians will ensure your home’s safety and perform the required repairs.
Key Problems Detected in Chimney Inspections
Chimney inspections are essential for uncovering a range of issues that could worsen over time. A frequent finding during inspections is:
- Creosote Buildup: Produced by wood-burning fires, this highly flammable residue collects inside the chimney. Failing to clean it regularly can result in dangerous chimney fires.
- Damaged or Cracked Chimney Liners: Issues such as cracks or gaps in the chimney liner can allow hazardous gases, including smoke and carbon monoxide, to infiltrate your home. Upon detecting liner damage during inspections, we provide relining services to restore your chimney’s safety and performance.
- Chimney Leaks: Water entering your chimney can lead to extensive damage over time. Our technicians check for leaks and recommend appropriate solutions, such as installing chimney caps or repairing the crown or flashing, to prevent further harm.
- Obstructions: Blockages from animals, debris, or creosote buildup can decrease chimney efficiency and elevate the risk of fire. We clear these obstructions and suggest preventive measures, including chimney caps, to keep your chimney safe.
Essential Checks for Gas Fireplaces
Gas fireplaces benefit from routine inspections, just like their wood-burning counterparts. Although creosote isn’t an issue, checking for properly sealed liners and unblocked venting systems is crucial to prevent carbon monoxide leaks. Our certified technicians are skilled in inspecting gas fireplaces, ensuring they function safely and effectively.
Why Homeowners in Minneapolis Choose London Chimney Services
London Chimney Services serving Excelsior stands out for our commitment to safety, quality, and customer care. Homeowners across Minneapolis and nearby areas trust us for comprehensive chimney inspections designed to keep their systems safe and efficient.
- Highly Trained, Certified Technicians: Our CSIA-certified professionals utilize modern tools to carry out thorough inspections that prioritize accuracy and safety.
- In-Depth Reporting: You’ll receive a comprehensive report after the inspection, featuring photos and clear explanations, so you can confidently address any required repairs.
- Over Four Decades of Minnesota Experience: Our 45+ years in the region have given us the expertise to address the unique climate impacts on chimneys with care and precision.
- Committed to Your Safety: Safety comes first. We carefully explain inspection results and offer practical recommendations to safeguard your home and chimney.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How often should chimneys be inspected?
A: The NFPA recommends yearly chimney inspections to maintain safety and efficiency. Annual inspections help prevent fires, detect carbon monoxide leaks, and keep your fireplace or stove in optimal condition.
Q: How are chimney inspections and cleanings different?
A: Inspections assess the chimney’s structure, liner, and venting system for safety risks, while cleanings remove soot, creosote, and blockages. During an inspection, our certified technicians may recommend cleaning if buildup is found.
Q: What should I do if an inspection identifies issues?
A: If your chimney doesn’t pass inspection, it’s important to address the problems without delay. We’ll provide a comprehensive report with repair recommendations, explain the steps involved, and help you prioritize and schedule the work.
Q: How long does a typical inspection take?
A: Level I inspections generally last 45 minutes to an hour. Levels II and III may take longer if specialized tools, such as cameras, are used or additional areas need to be examined.
Q: Can I inspect my chimney myself?
A: While a basic visual check is possible, professional inspections are strongly advised. Our CSIA-certified technicians use advanced tools to spot subtle issues like creosote buildup and cracks, ensuring a complete and accurate evaluation.
Q: What exactly is creosote, and why is it a safety concern?
A: Creosote is a thick, tar-like substance produced when wood burns, accumulating in your chimney over time. It’s highly flammable and, if not removed regularly, can result in dangerous chimney fires. During our chimney inspections, we check for creosote buildup and recommend professional cleaning when necessary.
Q: Are regular inspections needed for gas fireplaces?
A: Yes, regular inspections are important for gas fireplaces to ensure proper venting and a sealed liner. Blocked vents or damaged liners can result in carbon monoxide leaks. Our certified technicians specialize in inspecting gas fireplaces to confirm their safety and efficient operation.
Q: How can I tell if it’s time for a chimney inspection?
A: Indications that you might need a chimney inspection include:
- Excessive smoke entering your room during fireplace use
- Unusual odors from your chimney or fireplace
- Cracks or visible damage to the chimney’s exterior
- Water leaks or dampness around the chimney
- It’s been over a year since your last inspection
- Recent structural changes to the chimney or purchasing a new home
Q: What is a camera inspection, and when should it be performed?
A: A camera inspection, often conducted during Level II inspections, involves using a specialized device to closely examine the flue liner and chimney interior for issues like cracks, gaps, or blockages. This inspection is particularly useful when buying a home, after a chimney fire, or following any structural changes.
Q: Is it safe to use a fireplace if the chimney liner has cracks?
A: No, using a fireplace with a cracked liner is unsafe. Cracks can allow heat, gases, or sparks to escape into walls or attics, increasing the risk of fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Our technicians can assess the damage and recommend relining to restore safety.Water leaks or moisture around the chimney
- It’s been over a year since your last inspection
- You’ve recently bought a new home or made structural changes to your chimney
Q: What is a camera inspection, and when do I need one?
A: A camera inspection, typically performed during a Level II inspection, involves using a specialized camera to examine the flue liner and interior of the chimney for hidden issues like cracks, gaps, or blockages. This type of inspection is recommended when you’re buying a new home, following a chimney fire, or if there’s been any structural change to the chimney.
Q: Can I use my fireplace if there are small cracks in the chimney liner?
A: It’s not recommended to use your fireplace if there are cracks in the chimney liner. These cracks can allow heat, gases, and even sparks to escape into the walls or attic, increasing the risk of fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Our technicians will assess the extent of the damage and recommend relining options to restore the safety of your chimney.
Schedule Your Chimney Inspection Today
Don’t wait until winter to ensure your chimney is safe and ready to use. Whether you have a wood-burning or gas fireplace, annual chimney inspections are vital to maintaining your home’s safety and comfort.
Other Chimney Services We Offer:
Contact London Chimney Services at 612-377-1500 to schedule your inspection today, or click here to book online.
Areas We Offer Our Chimney Inspections:
Hennepin County
Bloomington | Brooklyn Center | Brooklyn Park | Eden Prairie | Edina | Excelsior | Golden Valley | Maple Grove | Minneapolis | Minnetonka | Minnetrista | Mound | Orono | Plymouth | Richfield | St Louis Park | Wayzata
Carver County
Carver | Chaska | Victoria
Scott County
Prior Lake | Savage | Shakopee
Dakota County
Apple Valley | Burnsville | Inver Grove Heights | Lakeville | South St Paul
Washington County
Cottage Grove | Lake Elmo | Mahtomedi | Oakdale | Woodbury
Ramsey County
Highland Park | Little Canada | Maplewood | Mounds View | North St Paul | Roseville
Shoreview | St Paul | Vadnais Heights| White Bear Lake
Anoka County
Blaine | Fridley | Lino Lakes
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About Excelsior, MN
Perched on the southern shore of Lake Minnetonka, Excelsior is a quaint lakeside town in Hennepin County that brims with historic charm and nautical allure. Founded in the 1850s, it served as a popular destination for steamboat excursions, drawing visitors eager to experience the tranquil beauty of Minnesota’s lake country. The town’s rich history is etched into its Victorian-era architecture and the storied streets of its downtown district.
Excelsior’s vibrant community is intimately connected to the rhythms of the lake, with a lifestyle that celebrates boating, fishing, and waterfront leisure. The historic Excelsior Commons park is a central gathering place, where lush green spaces meet the sparkling waters, hosting events like the Lake Minnetonka 4th of July fireworks and weekly summertime concerts. The Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society Museum offers a window into the past, preserving tales of the area’s steamboat legacy and early settlers. Boutiques, antique shops, and cozy cafes line Water Street, inviting leisurely exploration. With its enchanting blend of history, community spirit, and lakeside beauty, Excelsior captivates those seeking a serene escape steeped in tradition.
London Chimney Services
Excelsior, MN
Excelsior, MN Zip Code: 55331
Contact London Chimney Services at 612-377-1500 to schedule your inspection today, or click here to book online.